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Following years of drought and with 2017 shaping up to be what the California Department of Water Resources calls “one of the wettest years ever,” some observers have wondered why water agencies are not storing more water in reservoirs for future use. Because preventing loss of life and reducing property damage from flooding becomes a top priority during strong storms such as those that reached the state in January, agencies say they must release water from reservoirs to make room for anticipated runoff from subsequent storms.

In their recent commentary, “More dams won’t do it, time for a fresh approach on water,” the writers are spot-on in referencing the need for multiple solutions to solving California’s water challenges, especially in the face of anticipated climate change. However, they miss several important points about the value of new water storage in California. Historically, California has used its snow pack as seasonal storage. With climate change, this immense natural water storage system will likely be significantly reduced or lost. Alternative water supply options are critical to maintaining a state that is economically and ecologically healthy.

If you were hoping for a reprieve after Redding received nearly double its normal rainfall for January, the first week of the month might disappoint. “We have another Pacific storm moving in tonight into Saturday but the heaviest precipitation should be Thursday and Friday,” said Idamis Del Valle, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Redding could see 2 inches of rain through Saturday morning, according to forecasts. That could cause localized flooding in streams and on some roads, Del Valle said.

It may be difficult to think about conserving water as the rain continues to pound down, causing mudslides and flooding in some areas, but the California State Water Resources Control Board is considering keeping water use restrictions in place because, despite the rain, the drought may not be over. The state water board must decide whether to extend or modify the current regulations on water use before they expire at the end of February.