SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - On Aug. 15, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) announced a new partnership opportunity to support the state’s ability to measure stream and river flows through the California Stream Gage Improvement Program (CalSIP) as climate extremes continue to impact the state’s water supply.

As part of the approximately $7 million program, the Department of Water Resources is seeking to partner with public agencies to install, upgrade and/or reactivate existing stream gage stations. This effort will expand California’s ability to access critical data that can inform important water management decisions during both flood and drought conditions.

“California can’t manage what we don’t measure. Expanding our network of gages in rivers and streams helps us all make better decisions about managing our precious water supply while protecting vulnerable communities from flooding and drought,” said Department of Water Resources Director Karla Nemeth.

“It also benefits our natural environment, improving our understanding of the needs of salmon and other native fish especially during drought conditions.”

A stream gage is a set of instruments installed along a river or stream that measures, records, and transmits data on flow, water temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels. Water agencies and the public rely on the essential information these gages provide for multiple purposes including:

Planning, forecasting, and warning about floods and drought conditions

Managing and informing reservoir operations

Monitoring environmental conditions to protect aquatic habitats

Planning for safe and enjoyable recreational activities

Assessing groundwater and surface water interaction

Monitoring stream flow impacts due to long-term changes in weather patterns

While there are approximately 1,000 active stream gages across the state sharing information publicly, many watersheds lack vital information on their surface water resources. Users of this data include emergency responders, water managers, environmental and transportation agencies, universities, utilities, recreators, researchers, and Tribes.

“Filling gaps in our stream gage network is essential for protecting life and property from flooding, improving water supply forecasting now and into the future amidst an ever-changing climate, and enhancing recreational opportunities like rafting and fishing,” said Teresa Connor, the California Stream Gage Improvement program manager with the Department of Water Resources.

The Department of Water Resources is now accepting interest forms, which will be reviewed and evaluated monthly to identify eligible projects through Dec. 31. The funding will allow approved entities to purchase and install stream gage equipment as well as operate and maintain stations through June 30, 2027.  Local entities will need to operate and maintain the gage and can elect to perform the operations either with staff or hire an experienced consultant to perform the installation and operations of the gage if the operation is consistent with industry standards.  Real-time stream data transmitted from these gages will then be publicly shared on the California Data Exchange Center website at https://cdec.water.ca.gov.  

Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Additional information on eligible agencies, how to apply, and application deadlines can be found in the program guidelines.

This work is funded by the Budget Act of 2023 and is part of a larger effort authorized by Senate Bill 19 to address gaging information gaps in coordination with the State Water Resources Control Board, the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the California Department of Conservation.

For more information about the program and how to apply for technical assistance, visit the California Stream Gage Improvement Program webpage.