The Reservoir Release Schedule is a guide to assist the Water Resources Agency in making water conservation releases from both Nacimiento and San Antonio Dams.

Prior to cessation of natural flow in the Salinas River each year, Agency staff drafts a Preliminary Reservoir Release Schedule which considers various factors contained in the Dams’ Operations Policies. The schedule considers the following priorities: 1) provide maximum groundwater recharge for the entire Salinas Valley, 2) operate the lakes to provide recreation benefits, and 3) provide for the needs of fish and wildlife.

Each spring, usually at its annual April meeting, the Reservoir Operations Committee reviews the Preliminary Release Schedule and recommends a Proposed Release Schedule to the Board of Directors for adoption. The Reservoir Operations Committee reviews the adopted Release Schedule monthly and makes recommendations or changes as needed. To view the current release conditions, please click here.

If you have additional questions regarding the Release Schedule, please contact the Agency at franklinh@co.monterey.ca.us or by telephone at (831) 755-4860.