Kern River Status Update
Lake Isabella has received 8.37 inches of precipitation since October 1, 2024. The latest California Department of Water Resources (DWR) water supply forecast model is predicting 350,000 acre-feet during the April through July runoff season, which is 75% of the long-term historical average for the Kern River. According to DWR’s 30-year model period (which uses the years from 1991 through 2020) this would reflect 82% of average. The current DWR allocation of State Water Project (SWP) water is 50%.
The District does not expect prorations for Kern Island and Eastside Utility ground this summer, though waiting lists may be necessary from time to time. Utility and SWP water will be prorated for the Buena Vista, Stine, and Farmers Utilities, and State ground both east and west of the 99 during June, July, and August. It is anticipated that all District systems will be in operation beginning in early May and will continue operations into early August. Estimated amounts for Utility and SWP prorations in acre-feet per acre are as follows beginning June 1, 2025: |