DWR Updates

A drone view at dusk shows Clifton Court Forebay, which is managed by the California Department of Water Resources, at the southwestern edge of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta in Contra Costa County. Photo taken March 3, 2025.

Cloudy Water, Clear Decision: Using Science to Protect Fish and Water Supply

When the first major storms of the season arrive in California, they bring more than just water. Those early storms trigger what is known as “first flush,” a short but important period that plays a big role in the ecology of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, how the State Water Project (SWP) operates, and the actions taken to protect fish in the De ...

Published: December 31, 2025

The metal fish barrier for the Georgiana Slough in the activated position on March 27th, 2014 in Walnut Grove, Calif.

Balancing Water and Wildlife: How Science Guides the State Water Project

As a series of atmospheric rivers bring rain and high elevation snow to communities throughout California, the winter storms are crucial for the State Water Project, helping fill reservoirs and support water deliveries.

Published: December 22, 2025