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News Release Archive
Yakima Basin Water Supply Mid-May Forecast
Media Contact:
Kelly Bridges, (208) 378-5101, kbridges@usbr.gov
Chuck Garner, cgarner@usbr.gov
For Release: May 20, 2015
YAKIMA, Washington - The Bureau of Reclamation's mid-May 2015 Total Water Supply Available forecast for the Yakima Basin indicates a full water supply for senior water rights during the 2015 irrigation season, but an estimated 44% percent supply for junior water rights. Reclamation will issue water supply forecasts monthly or as needed at least through July.
"The rain storm in the Yakima Basin last week did help the water supply but the precipitation for the first part of May was never the less below average at our reservoirs," said Chuck Garner, Yakima Project River Operations supervisor.
The Mid-May TWSA forecast is based on observed and estimated flows, precipitation, snowpack, and reservoir storage for April 15 to September 30. Future weather conditions that help determine the timing of the run-off and the demand for water are also critical in determining streamflows, prorationing, and the storage available in the reservoirs.
If spring precipitation and runoff continue to be unfavorable, Reclamation expects the water supply available for junior users to decline further. Since longer term weather conditions are unpredictable, Garner recommends that water conservation be considered by all users in the Yakima Basin.
For more information, visit our website at http://www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/yakima.
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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.
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