October 8, 2024 KDWD Newsletter

Kern River Status Update

The Kern Island Canal and laterals are currently operating. Assuming the River remains at its current level through the end of the month it is likely that the Buena Vista Canal will be brought on line around the 15th of October. To help visualize the current state of the River, the District is providing this graph that compares flow rates for the two-year periods of 2022-2023, the current period of 2023-2024, as well as other two-year periods in which the second year follows a significantly above average for the Kern River. The flows for this year are estimates only and subject to revision.

After 37 years with Kern Delta, Operations Lead Phil Buffington will be retiring this month. This past Friday current, former, and retired District staff and family celebrated Phil’s exemplary service and dedication to our growers. Phil will be missed, but we wish him all the best in his retirement…thumbs up to you Phil!

Below is a list of upcoming meetings that may interest our growers. The information presented at these meetings may directly affect agricultural practices and costs.

Upcoming Meetings:

Kern River Groundwater Sustainability Agency
First Thursday of the month at 10:00 AM
The next meeting will be on November 7
City of Bakersfield Water Resources Department
1000 Buena Vista Drive, Bakersfield CA 93311
Large Conference Room
Kern River Watershed Coalition Authority
First Thursday of the month at 1:00 PM
The next meeting will be on November 7
Rosedale-Rio Bravo WSD
849 Allen Road, Bakersfield, Ca 93314
Kern Non-Districted Land Authority (KNDLA)
Fourth Monday of the month at 2:00 PM
Next Meeting: October 28
Kern County Water Agency
3200 Rio Mirada Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93308