Photo: View looking West across Crowley Reservoir toward the Eastern Sierra
Despite these efforts, a high volume of runoff will still remain in the Eastern Sierra and require management efforts. Additional emergency hires have been put in place to support the increased construction and operational needs. Equipment, such as excavators, backhoes, and in-flow meters, have also been purchased and strategically placed in key locations to expedite response during the runoff season.
Other preparation work includes repairing diversion structures damaged during heavy rainfall earlier this year to ready spreading grounds to receive the runoff; repairing and cleaning ditches that receive the runoff; and shoring up areas of Owens Lake to minimize the expected damage rising water levels may pose to dust mitigation infrastructure.
While the record snowpack means increased water supply to offset purchased water, LADWP officials continue to encourage its customers to continue using their water efficiently. With extreme climate becoming a more regular occurrence, the unpredictability means water conservation will remain a constant, through wet and dry years alike.
PUBLIC SAFETY RESOURCES:
Due to the potential for high water flows during the warmer months, LADWP advises the public to exercise caution and follow posted safety signs when recreating near waterways in the Eastern Sierra this year. Check for updates on road and flood conditions before making travel plans. The following resources are available:
LADWP will also be providing regular updates on its water spreading and management efforts via www.ladwpeasternsierra.com. To receive LADWP in the Eastern Sierra news and updates directly in your inbox, subscribe at the link.