Improving Reliability for Droughts and Floods: Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO)

A workshop was held in August 2014, at University of California San Diego/Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Thirty-two representatives from multiple agencies met for three days to scope out an appraisal-level FIRO study. A work plan is now being drafted for release in early 2015. The FIRO study is expected to occur over the next five years (depending on funding).

Tangible outcomes from the full Lake Mendocino FIRO study will include identification, assessment and enhancement of the best science available to improve operations to maximize flood control, water supply and ecosystem benefits. The evaluation will identify realistic, short-term steps to provide more accurate and timely information about weather and watershed conditions. The project has transferability potential throughout the western U.S.