The recent Water Commission meeting in Glendora highlighted critical updates on water delivery and management strategies amid ongoing challenges in the region. As of March 2025, the Upper District reported a total delivery of 2,709 acre-feet out of a planned 10,500 acre-feet, while the Three Valleys District aims to deliver 35,000 acre-feet, with initial deliveries set to begin on April 25.
Key discussions centered around the San Gabriel Valley Water District's operations, which included a delivery of 369 acre-feet to the San Gabriel Canyon spreading grounds in February. However, the district has faced challenges, including a lack of deliveries to Beatty Canyon and potential project shutdowns due to issues with the invasive golden mussel species. These complications could impact the management of raw water and the overall efficiency of water distribution in the area.
The meeting also addressed the current state of water levels in local reservoirs. As of mid-April, the snowpack in Northern Sierra was reported at 17% of normal, while the Colorado River's snowpack showed a healthier 94%. This fluctuation in snowpack levels is crucial as it directly affects water supply allocations, which have recently been raised to 40% for California.
Groundwater levels in the Baldwin Park Key Well have shown a concerning decline, dropping to 242.3 feet as of April 18, indicating ongoing challenges in groundwater management. The commission emphasized the need for continued monitoring and proactive measures to address these issues.
As the region prepares for the summer months, the Water Commission's discussions underscore the importance of effective water management strategies to ensure a reliable supply for residents. The next steps will involve closely monitoring water levels and addressing the ecological challenges posed by invasive species, all while striving to meet the community's water needs.