Understanding how atmospheric rivers affect the location, duration and intensity of storms could help managers in the water-short Santa Barbara area make better decisions about operations. Some are even using cloud seeding to increase precipitation in the region’s watershed.

During our Edge of Drought Tour Aug. 27-29, we’ll visit an atmospheric river observatory in Santa Barbara that specifically monitors the meteorological phenomenon and also visit Lopez Lake to hear from the County of San Luis Obispo on their cloud seeding efforts.

This new tour examines the link between the area’s distinctive hydrology and the ever-present threat of drought with a firsthand look at a variety of water projects and programs being implemented across the southern Central Coast.

In addition to highlighting the efforts of local agencies working to build drought resilience for the future, we’ll also learn about the effects of the 2017 Thomas Fire on local water infrastructure and the impacts of the subsequent debris flows on water quality.

Besides visiting Lopez Lake and the atmospheric river observatory, other planned stops Include:

• Pyramid Lake
• Freeman Diversion Dam and fish ladder
• Ojai Valley groundwater recharge site
• Lake Casitas
• Santa Barbara desalination plant
• Lake Cachuma
• Twitchell Reservoir
• Cambria water reclamation facility
• Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary

Join us for this 2 1/2-day tour through a scenic but challenged California landscape prone to drought, mudslides and wildfire. The tour starts at 1 p.m. at the Burbank Airport Aug. 27, and ends at the airport on Aug. 29, with overnight stays in Ventura and Paso Robles. You can take advantage of our “early bird” discount for a little while longer by registering before July 29th!

Click here for information on all our 2019 tours, and contact Programs Manager Nick Gray via email or at 916-444-6240 with any questions.