





Gov. Jerry Brown officially relegated California's recent drought to the record books Wednesday, issuing a proclamation rescinding a 2008 drought declaration by his predecessor.

"NOW, THEREFORE, I, EDMUND G. BROWN JR., Governor of the State of California, in accordance with the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the statutes of the State of California, do hereby PROCLAIM THE DROUGHT TO BE AT AN END."

Brown made the announcement shortly after a state crew measured the mountain snowpack at 165% of normal for the date. Major reservoirs in the state and federal water systems all have more water in them than usual for this time of year.

Brown nonetheless urged Californians not to abandon thrifty water habits: "IT IS STRONGLY ENCOURAGED that all Californians continue to minimize water usage and engage in water conservation efforts."

RELATED: Governor expected to declare California's drought over

-- Bettina Boxall

Photo: David Hilles digs out a friend's house Wednesday near Echo Summit. Credit: Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press