Research Paper Abstract

I chose to research California’s water resources and its water supply system. The Sierra Nevada snow pack and the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta are two of the largest sections of the state’s water supply system. Measurements of snow pack levels over the last century have revealed a declining Sierra Nevada snow pack and have formed the basis for some startling predictions. “The Sierra [Nevada] snowpack will experience a 25 to 40 percent reduction from its historic average by 2050." The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta is the heart of California’s water supply system. About 80% of the water pumped from the delta is used solely for agricultural purposes.California’s Department of Water Resources projects that urban water demand in California may increase by 1.5-5.8 million acre-feet by 2030.

Increased rates of snow melt for the Sierra Nevada snow pack, and federally initiated cutbacks of water exports from the fragile Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, have caused a decline in fresh water reserves throughout California, threatening the state’s future water supply. A reduction in the water consumption for both the agricultural and urban sectors of the state’s water system can be achieved by providing subsidies that promote more efficient use of water, promoting the use of water-efficient technologies, expanding educational programs that promote water efficiency, and improving water and land planning.

Pull Quotes:
“The Sierra Nevada snowpack will experience a 25 to 40 percent reduction from its historic average by 2050."

"...urban water demand in California may increase by 1.5-5.8 million acre-feet by 2030."

Sources:
Managing an Uncertain Future; Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for California's Water. Rep. State of California | The Resources Agency Department of Water Resources, Oct. 2008. Web. 10 Feb. 2009.

California Water Plan 2005 Update. Rep. Sacramento: Department of Water Resources, 2005. Print. Bulletin 160-05.