The 2026 irrigation season is set to begin March 12 with a full 48-inch allocation and no cap for in-district growers, with water ordering opening March 11. Hydrology conditions are strong, with significant precipitation forecast to bring snowpack to near-average levels. Staff also reported the Ceres Main canal automated control pilot is ready to go live at season start, with a grower workshop scheduled February 25.
Precipitation to date is around average thanks to early winter storms, but snowpack is only 57% of normal, creating operational challenges. Don Pedro is about 5,000 acre-feet below its flood control space, so additional releases may be needed if a wetter forecast materializes. If warm, dry conditions persist, early irrigation demand is expected while main canal drops 7 and 8 remain out of service for about 2–3 more weeks.
The District faces below-average snowpack at 57% of normal despite near-average precipitation, with early rainfall creating flood control concerns and potential for an early irrigation season if dry conditions persist. Main Canal drops 7 and 8 are undergoing complete reconstruction for 2-3 weeks, with system preparation targeted for completion within three weeks. A renewable energy prepay transaction is drawing strong market interest and may support more stable future power costs.
The Board authorized a 25‑year renewable power purchase agreement for a 130‑MW solar plus 130‑MW battery project to help meet state requirements and manage costs. A grower satisfaction survey showed 93.8% overall satisfaction, well above peer benchmarks. Hydrology updates highlighted upcoming storms and modeling that could push Don Pedro to flood control levels by February.
TID leaders mourned the loss of longtime Water Distribution Manager Mike Kavarian, honoring his 44 years of service during the GM’s update and board remarks. The Board elected 2026 officers: David Yonan as President, Ron Macedo as Vice President, and Joe Alamo as Secretary. Despite a recent dry spell, hydrology updates showed conditions near average and Don Pedro Reservoir around elevation 790.
