Water supply planning for multi-purpose reservoir operation

A discussion of problems involved in operating the facilities of the California State Water Plan is presented. Reservoir storages are operated to obtain the maximum flood protection as the prime function together with meeting the other demands of the multiple use project of controlling streamflow for navigation, irrigation, hydroelectric power production, salinity control, municipal water supplies, fisheries management and recreation needs. In California most of the water in the many streams has been allocated by water rights. Strict economy of water use must be exercised and further planning must be continued towards equal opportunity for unpolluted water to meet the increasing needs and demands of an expanding population and industrial growth.