Scott River Watershed Report – Week of May 15, 2023

Written By Theodora Johnson

Scott River watershed is well above average in almost every measurement; see the latest Watershed Report for details. The U.S. Drought Monitor has moved the Scott from “Moderate Drought” to “Abnormally Dry.” It’s time for Governor Newsom’s Drought Emergency to be lifted in the Scott River watershed.

Scott River flows are more than double the historical average, with a 178% flow forecast for April through July. Callahan’s rainfall through April is at 161% of average; Fort Jones is 95%. May rains are not included in that figure. The May 1 snowpack surveys show 159%. “Spring has arrived, along with warmer temperatures. Despite elevated temperatures, including unseasonable highs during the last week of April, the snow pack continues to persist in the high country even as it melts from the lower slopes.” [Klamath National Forest press release of 5/8/23].

Theodora Johnson
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Drought officially over in Scott River watershed, yet emergency regulation remains--Local farmers and ranchers still required to give up 30% of groundwater