News Release Archive

Yakima Basin Water Supply June Forecast

Media Contact: Michael Williamson, (208) 378-5212, 06/03/2016 11:31
Chuck Garner, cgarner@usbr.gov

For Release: June 03, 2016

YAKIMA, Washington - The Bureau of Reclamation’s June 2016 Total Water Supply Available forecast for the Yakima Basin indicates a full water supply for senior water rights during the 2016 irrigation season, but an estimated 86 percent supply for junior water rights.

"May's precipitation was much better than April, but still below average," said Chuck Garner, Yakima Project River Operations supervisor. "While snow pack is nearly gone, our reservoirs are essentially full."

Reclamation will provide water supply forecasts monthly through July. Specific water delivery levels will not be determined until later in the year after reservoir storage begins to decline.

This forecast is based on flows, precipitation, snowpack, and reservoir storage as of June 1, along with estimates of future precipitation and river flows. Other future weather conditions that determine the timing of the run-off and the demand for water are also critical in determining streamflow, prorationing, and the extent to which the reservoirs fill.

"Natural runoff, summer weather, and irrigation demands are still important unknown factors that can influence streamflow levels and the carry-over storage at the end of the season," Garner said.

In the event that spring precipitation and runoff are unfavorable, the water supply available for junior users could decline. 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.

Relevant Link:

http://www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/yakima