Bureau Announces Initial 2026 Allocations for CVP by ACWA Staff Feb 27, 2026 Water News SACRAMENTO – The Bureau of Reclamation on Feb. 27 announced initial 2026 water supply allocations for Central Valley Project water users. A news release details allocations for six contractor groups as well as wildlife refuges. While early-season storms brought some precipitation to the Sierra, a dry and warm January significantly reduced snow accumulation. Recent measurements show statewide snowpack at roughly 59% of the historical average with key high-elevation basins below median snow-water equivalent for this time of year. Reservoir storage, however, remains stronger than average due to recent wet years and active water management efforts, providing a buffer as hydrologic conditions continue to evolve ahead of the critical spring runoff season, according to the Bureau’s news release. “While current snowpack conditions remain below average, we are encouraged by the recent storm activity and the additional precipitation it has brought to the state,” stated Acting Regional Director for the Bureau Adam Nickels in the news release. “As we receive and analyze updated data from these storms, particularly snowpack and runoff forecasts, we are hopeful conditions may improve. We will continue to closely monitor hydrologic developments and update allocations accordingly to reflect the most accurate and up-to-date information available.” ACWA member agencies Westlands Water District and Friant Water Authority issued statements on the Bureau’s setting of an initial allocation. “We appreciate the Trump administration’s leadership on strengthening water reliability for the San Joaquin Valley and its recognition of the severity of the state’s water challenges. However, given recent storms that have lifted California out of drought, improved snowpack, and increased reservoir storage, a 15% water supply allocation does not reflect current hydrologic conditions and falls well short of what is needed to sustain the District’s nearly 700 family-owned farms that feed the world and support communities throughout the San Joaquin Valley,” stated Westlands Water District General Manager Allison Febbo in a news release. “Friant Water Authority deeply appreciates the Bureau of Reclamation’s announcement of a 100% Class 1 water supply allocation for the Friant Division of the Central Valley Project,” stated the authority in its news release. “This allocation provides important certainty for our member districts, growers, and the communities they serve across the east side of the San Joaquin Valley. We are grateful to Reclamation staff and the Administration for their timely, nimble, and data-driven approach, and for maintaining close coordination with water users throughout the winter as conditions develop.”
