A new study from the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego finds that improved weather and water forecasts could help California gain more value from existing reservoirs and help meet a new water supply target. The study, led by Scripps economist Tom Corringham and staff researcher Denali Pinto, estimates that a reservoir operation system co-led by Scripps, state, federal and local water authorities could save the state between $100 million and $200 million per year in the form of added water available to meet agricultural, urban and household needs. Corringham said that ripple effects ranging from recreation enhancements to recreation, power generation, enriched fishery stocks, and improved flood risk management make that a conservative estimate.

Other dam and reservoir news:

• The Modesto Bee (Calif.): McClintock hears wish list from Valley water suppliers. One links two reservoirs
• Action News Now (Chico, Calif.): Butte County pushes for Oroville Dam accountability
• SFGate: Dam removal launches white water rafting revival near California border
• Orange County Water District: News release: Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations assists in record capture of more than 18 billion gallons of water at Prado Dam