Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA/Agency) General Manager Shivaji Deshmukh issues the following statement on the Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) announcement today of an increase in the State Water Project allocation to 15 percent of requested supplies for 2022:
“As we ended 2021, we experienced substantial rain and snow across the State. Entering the New Year, however, we have settled into what is likely to be the driest January on record. This is a stark reminder that despite the recent optimism from increased precipitation and snowpack levels, the State’s weather conditions can be unpredictable. While today’s announcement from DWR regarding an increase in the State Water Project allocation to 15 percent is promising, we need to stay mindful that California and our region are still experiencing drought conditions.
“Our region receives its imported water supply from the State Water Project. Given today’s news regarding a modest increase in allocation, it remains imperative that we continue to develop partnerships, implement water-use efficiency programs and make investments in diversified water supplies to reduce reliance on imported water and ensure a reliable water supply for all essential uses.
“IEUA is working closely with the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, regional agencies as well as our customer agencies to advocate for near- and long-term solutions. IEUA’s Board has always been forward thinking and the Agency’s projects reflect their vision. As an example, we are currently developing an innovative regional program that will increase storage capacity in the Chino Groundwater Basin and provide an additional layer of resiliency for future droughts.
“While IEUA and its customer agencies continue to make great strides, we rely on the actions of the community to work together and step up water saving efforts to maintain a reliable, high-quality water supply for future generations. Visit bewaterwise.com for water-saving rebates and programs.”