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We are draining a finite supply of water, it was ugly last year, and it's going to get uglier this year California is increasing distribution from a separate state-operated system of reservoirs and canals with fewer mandatory obligations. The State Water Project announced last month that The State Water Project could provide local agencies and farmers 15 percent of the water they requested, up from 5 percent last year. Some communities and endangered wildlife that rely on federal water will receive some water but still suffer cuts. Urban areas, including the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento area, will receive a quarter of typical water allotments but could receive more if public health is threatened. The water in the snowpack, California's primary water source, is at a fifth of its normal level, according to state officials. Federal officials said they don't expect a snow survey next week to show improved conditions. With enough precipitation, The State Water Project can provide more water later in the year. Paul Wegner, president of the California Farm Bureau Federation, said the federal government's announcement is another sign California needs to speed up construction of water storage projects and to reform laws requiring the government to prioritize water to preserve the environment and fish species.