Those are nice photos, pakoR. They give me a much better idea of the terrain.
Last year was very dry and this year is drier, even exceeding the 76-77 season. It appears that the region is melting out 10-12 weeks ahead of average. Average is mid July.
http://cdec.water.ca.gov/cgi-progs/snow/PLOT_SWCWhat is the weather like in May-June?