District staff and consultants have begun monitoring the endangered California gnatcatcher as a part of the fieldwork associated with the Upper Santa Ana River Wash Habitat Conservation Plan. Surveys began in March and will continue into May. Staff is also working with the United States Geological Survey to develop an integrated protocol for monitoring the San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat as part of the Wash Plan and Plunge Creek conservation projects.
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The California Special Districts Association has featured the San Bernardino Basin Groundwater Council as its cover story for the November-December issue.
Read more: Groundwater Council Featured on Cover of CSDA Magazine
Storms in early November have increased streamflow throughout the system as we approach the end of the calendar year. Mill Creek is flowing at about 15 to 17 cubic feet per second (or up to 7,650 gallons per minute) and so far has totaled just over 600 acre feet for the new water year. Seven Oaks Dam continues to flow at about 5 cubic feet per second at the Parshall Flume, with the rest of the flow going to direct use. Santa Ana River recharge totals are at 485 acre feet since October, and total recharge for the year is approximately 1,100 acre feet if flows continue.
From the growing collaboration of the Groundwater Council, to the long-awaited launch of the Wash Plan and Plunge Creek Conservation Project — 2020 was a success despite the challenges brought on by COVID-19.
The SBVWCD Board of Directors issued a proclamation commemorating the distinguished service of former board member Clare Henry Day, who turned 100 this month. Day served on the board for 18 years from 1995 to 2013, and provided valuable expertise in water and public policy issues on a state, local and federal level.
