State Water Supplies Expect Boost in Spring

FRESNO, Calif. This time last year, that number was only 80%. However, officials warn that even a wet winter will not offset three consecutive dry years or pumping restrictions to protect Delta fish.

Frank Gehrke said, "There is still concern because the reservoir storage is what's going to set us through if next year is … even if it's average or below average you got to get good reservoir storage to ensure adequate water delivery."

The snow-pack is important because its runoff provides much of the state's water supply in the summer.

If wet weather continues, the Department said the state water project will be able to deliver 35% to 45% of requested amounts of water to most farmers.