TURLOCK – The Turlock Irrigation District (TID) Board of Directors unanimously approved the 2009 water allotment at 33 inches of water per acre with an additional 15 inches available for a cap of 48 inches per acre.
Improved conditions in the watershed have resulted in more water available for growers than originally anticipated in the beginning of the season. Also the conservation measures taken in 2008 helped to offset dry spring conditions and left more water in the reservoir for the 2009 season.
Although conditions have improved, the state is still in a drought. For the 2009 season, TID is maintaining a reduced allotment, placing a cap on available water and shortening the irrigation season to encourage water conservation, and reserve water in Don Pedro Reservoir for use in 2010 should it be another below normal water year. Assuming a dry scenario for the remainder of the year and with combined conservation measures, it is estimated that TID would end the season with more water in the reservoir than in 2008.
The Board also approved the end of the irrigation season for October 14, one week later than the 2008 irrigation season.
Growers will receive the 33 inch allotment at $23 per acre. Growers may purchase an additional 12 inches of Tier 2 water at $15 per acre-foot, plus 3 more inches of Tier 3 water at $20 per acre-foot for a total of 48 inches.
