March 2026 saw the highest canal flows in 18 years (over 1,600 CFS) and the most water orders since 1997 (over 5,200 orders). Total surface water deliveries exceeded 43,000 acre-feet — more than four times what was delivered in March 2025. This was driven by an exceptionally dry and warm March, combined with the canal system being down for capital projects during the pre-season period when growers typically irrigate. April demand is expected to be less volatile but still significant; average Turlock Lake releases for April are just under 48,000 acre-feet.
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