The San Diego County Water Authority will oppose the detachment of the Fallbrook Public Utility District and the Rainbow Municipal Water District from the SDCWA unless certain findings can be made.
A May 28 SDCWA board vote approved a resolution that the CWA will oppose the detachment unless it can be demonstrated that FPUD and Rainbow can guarantee that all obligations promised to their own ratepayers are met, that the detachment will not adversely affect the other 22 CWA member agencies or the county as a region, that the detachment and annexation into the Eastern Municipal Water District will not increase reliance on the Bay-Delta, and that the detachment will not reduce the CWA’s voting power at Metropolitan Water District of Southern California board meetings.
“This resolution does not oppose these detachment applications. It lays out a process to thoroughly review,” Sandra Kerl, general manager of CWA, said. “Today’s resolution is intended to get the ball rolling.”
Several regional water supply projects in San Diego County are on track to receive a total of more than $15 million from the California Department of Water Resources, pending a final decision on the grants this summer.
Money for the projects has been recommended by DWR, which will make the awards after a public comment period.
In San Diego County, the grant funds would support local agencies to advance conservation, environmental enhancements, water purification and other initiatives.
Funding for regional water projects
The San Diego County Water Authority submitted the funding request on behalf of the San Diego Integrated Regional Water Management Region, or IRWM. The San Diego IRWM Program began in 2005 as an effort by water retailers, wastewater agencies, stormwater and flood managers, watershed groups, the business community, tribes, agriculture, and nonprofit stakeholders to improve water resources planning in the region.
“The IRWM funding will provide much-needed funding over the next several years to implement a variety of local water supply projects, water use efficiency measures, along with a disadvantaged community project in the City of National City,” said Water Authority General Manager Sandra L. Kerl.
Kerl cited the “extraordinary effort” by the San Diego IRWM Regional Water Management Group and the Regional Advisory Committee for their work over the past year to make the $15,336,000 grant possible.
The statewide IRWM Program is supported by bond funding provided by the DWR to fund competitive grants for projects that improve water resources management.
Regional projects recommended for grant funds
San Diego Grant Administration, San Diego County Water Authority – Public Agency $920,180
2020 Regional Water Use Efficiency Programs, San Diego County Water Authority – Public Agency Water Conservation $1,440,000
Paradise Valley Creek Water Quality and Community Enhancement, City of National City – Public Agency Flood Damage Reduction $3,681,056
North City Pure Water Facility Influent Pump Station and Conveyance Pipeline, City of San Diego, Public Agency Water Supply – Recycled Water $1,477,600
Lower Santa Margarita River Indirect Potable Reuse Pilot Project, Fallbrook Public Utility District, Public Utility Water Supply – Recycled Water $687,500
Pure Water Oceanside City of Oceanside, Public Agency Water Supply – Groundwater $3,115,000
San Elijo Stormwater Capture & Reuse San Elijo Joint Powers Authority, Public Agency Water Supply – Recycled Water $1,195,000
Enhancing water stewardship
On November 4, 2014, California voters approved Proposition 1, the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014.
Proposition 1 authorized $510 million in IRWM funding. Funds are allocated to 12 hydrologic region-based funding areas, including the San Diego Region.
The Proposition 1 IRWM Grant Program, administered by DWR, provides funding for projects that help meet the long-term water needs of the state, including:
Assisting water infrastructure systems adapt to climate change;
Providing incentives throughout each watershed to collaborate in managing the region’s water resources and setting regional priorities for water infrastructure; and
Improving regional water self-reliance, while reducing reliance on Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/PureWaterOside.2.19.2020x016-Water-Authority-WNN.jpg511960Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2020-05-26 18:02:132020-05-26 18:21:23San Diego Region on Track to Receive $15 Million for Water Projects
When the proposal for the Fallbrook Public Utility District and the Rainbow Municipal Water District to detach from the San Diego County Water Authority and annex to the Eastern Municipal Water District is heard by San Diego County’s Local Agency Formation Commission, a public vote will follow any LAFCO board approval.
LAFCO’s board voted 8-0 to call for a public vote, May 4, and the motion also included the creation of a technical advisory committee. LAFCO executive officer Keene Simonds will draft proposed tasks for the committee and a proposed membership composition, and LAFCO is scheduled to approve that criteria June 1.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.png00Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2020-05-15 18:52:322020-05-20 08:01:08LAFCO Approves Public Vote for FPUD-Rainbow Detachment
The Fallbrook Public Utility District adopted a resolution declaring a state of emergency due to the coronavirus epidemic.
A 5-0 FPUD board vote, April 27, authorized Jack Bebee, general manager of FPUD, and Dave Shank, the district’s chief financial officer, to submit any necessary requests for emergency-related financial assistance to the state’s Office of Emergency Services or to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“We’re only doing it just because there’s a timeline to submit it,” Bebee said. “Right now, we’re not planning to submit anything.”
The San Diego County Water Authority is distributing 25,000 cloth masks to water and wastewater agency employees in six Southern California counties as part of the national effort to ensure essential workers have enough protective gear during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The masks are available to public and private water and wastewater utilities in Mono, Inyo, San Bernardino, Riverside, San Diego and Imperial counties. Water Authority staff created a drive-through operation to maintain physical distancing while handing out the facemasks.
“It’s a tall order, but one that leverages our core values of collaboration and communication on behalf of our community,” said Water Authority General Manager Sandra L. Kerl. “It’s part of our duty as water and wastewater professionals to continue ensuring a clean, safe, and reliable water supply for our region – and beyond.”
Protecting employees during pandemic
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Water Authority and its 24 member agencies have increased regional coordination, and taken precautionary measures to protect employees. Public water supplies in the region remain safe to drink due to numerous robust treatment processes used by local and regional water providers.
San Diego County Water Authority Safety Officer Stephen Lee about to place a bag containing protective cloth masks in the front seat of the the Rincon del Diablo Municipal Water District truck as the District’s Steve Plyler waits in the driver’s seat. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
Mask distribution
The mask distribution effort in San Diego County is part of a statewide distribution of 200,000 masks to water and wastewater industry staff. The masks are being dispersed nationwide to 16 different critical infrastructure sectors.
The masks were provided through a joint effort by FEMA, the U.S. EPA and the California Water & Wastewater Agency Response Network, or CalWARN, with assistance from the California-Nevada American Water Works Association and the California State Water Resources Control Board.
The EPA asked CalWARN to organize distribution of masks within the state. CalWARN asked the Water Authority to manage a distribution point. The distribution will continue until the masks are gone.
Water agencies are required to apply at CalWARN.org to receive the masks, free of charge. Once applications are approved, details regarding pickup dates, times, location, and quantity are sent to the applicants.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/MaskDist.5.5.2020x004.jpg450845Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2020-05-06 08:41:162020-05-06 09:08:16Water Authority Distributes Protective Masks to SoCal Water Agencies
More than a month into the coronavirus crisis in California, water pros continue to work around the clock to deliver essential services to San Diego County residents.
(L to R): Fallbrook PUD Utility Technician Toby Stoneburner, Collections Supervisor Kyle Drake, and Utility Worker II Matt Perez remain at work maintaining vital water systems. Photo: Fallbrook Public Utility District
“At a time when workforces are being challenged and stretched, the Fallbrook Public Utility District is fully operational,” said Jack Bebee, Fallbrook PUD general manager. “During this outbreak, many employees are working remotely answering phones and questions. Other essential employees are in the field as necessary, practicing social distancing and wearing masks. They are responding to leaks and other critical operations.”
“We are running at full capacity,” said Beebe. “Calls are being answered, invoices are getting processed, our systems are being monitored remotely, and we are moving forward with essential construction projects.”
‘Rewarding knowing I can help people’
Sweetwater Authority Customer Service Representative Vanessa Olivares continues to answer calls and assist with inquiries. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
At the Sweetwater Authority, members of the Customer Service team continue to provide high-quality customer service.
“The most rewarding aspect of my work is knowing I can help people with their water needs,” said Vanessa Olivares, Sweetwater customer service representative. “It’s rewarding being able to provide great customer service by solving problems and offering solutions for customers.”
“Knowing the public depends on me to do my job is a great motivator,” said Valetin Martinez, Sweetwater instrument and control technician.
Melissa Marquez continues her vital work for Padre Dam Municipal Water District during the COVID-19 crisis. Photo: Padre Dam Municipal Utility District
“Padre Dam staff continue to work daily to provide water and wastewater services to our customers,” said Allen Carlisle, Padre Dam CEO/general manager. “During this time of uncertainty, our customers can be sure that crews continue to operate systems, lab analysts monitor water quality daily, customer service representatives are available to assist customers, and staff continue to perform all essential functions as public servants in our community.”
Cliff Wright is one of many dedicated Padre Dam MWD employees continuing to work in the field serving East County residents. Photo: Padre Dam Municipal Water District
As essential workers, water and wastewater system employees will continue to work to ensure safe and reliable water services. In some instances, routine maintenance projects that would require temporary water shutoffs are being delayed to ensure customers continue critically important hygiene habits such as washing their hands.
If you see water agency employees in your neighborhood feel free to wave and say thank you, but please remember to practice physical distancing.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Javier.Natividad.Sweetwater-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2020-04-12 12:26:042020-04-12 12:54:18Water Pros Working Round the Clock To Ensure Service
The shortage of toilet paper is causing some residents to utilize other wiping substances and, when toilets are flushed with some of those alternatives, local sewer lines are impacted.
“The primary issue we have when people do that is backups in the sewer,” Jack Bebee, general manager of Fallbrook Public Utility District, said.
“We’ve seen an increase in our maintenance needs related to dealing with items such as flushable wipes,” Tom Kennedy, general manager of Rainbow Municipal Water District, said.
“Paper towels are not particularly made either to get through the sewer system,” Bebee said.
Scratch paper, wax and other materials have been flushed down toilet drains and into the sewer systems.
“We find all sorts of things in there,” Kennedy said.
“Clogs have been caused by that,” Bebee said.
“We see the flushable wipes more than anything else. They’re not flushable. They might say flushable on the package, but they’re not flushable,” Kennedy said. “It doesn’t degrade. You need things that are biodegradable.”
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.png00Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2020-04-06 06:26:572020-04-07 10:21:25Toilet Paper Shortage Could Impact FPUD, Rainbow Sewer Systems
In a move that is expected to save ratepayers in the Fallbrook Public Utility District and the Rainbow Municipal Water District approximately $10 million a year collectively, the districts took action Thursday, March 19, to withdraw from the San Diego County Water Authority and instead purchase their water from the Eastern Municipal Water District.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.png00Kimberlyn Velasquezhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngKimberlyn Velasquez2020-03-27 10:25:172020-03-30 10:47:53FPUD and RMWD Act to Save Ratepayers Millions
Fourteen water agencies in San Diego County seek the best in landscaping makeover projects for the regional WaterSmart 2020 Landscape Makeover competition. The annual contest offers the opportunity to showcase residential waterwise landscaping as a way to inspire other homeowners to consider replacing water-guzzling turf based designs.
The contest deadline for all participating agencies has now been extended to Friday, May 29. Homeowners may submit their entry online. You must be a resident within agency boundaries to participate. Each agency winner receives a $250 gift certificate and recognition on the agency website and social media channels.
Deborah Brandt’s 2019 winning landscape for the Vista Irrigation District includes contrasting elements, such as cactus, river rock and wood chips, against a backdrop of dramatic magenta, purple and striking orange. Photo: Vista Irrigation District
Participating agencies include California American Water, the cities of Escondido, Oceanside, and San Diego, Fallbrook Public Utility District, Helix Water District, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, Otay Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Rincon Del Diablo Water District, San Dieguito Water District, Sweetwater Authority, Vallecitos Water District, and Vista Irrigation District.
“With rebates available for turf removal, now is a great time to replace your lawn with a beautiful WaterSmart landscape,” said Brent Reyes, water conservation specialist for the Vista Irrigation District.
Turf removal saves estimated 36 million gallons annually
La Mesa residents Bob and Shan Cissell transformed 2,500 square feet of turf into their own conservation garden in La Mesa, winning the 2019 Otay Water District Landscaping Contest. Photo: Otay Water District
With a majority of residential water use in San Diego County attributed to watering landscapes, regional water efficiency efforts focus on outdoor water use. By showcasing their beautiful landscape in the WaterSmart Landscape Contest, homeowners can offer ideas and demonstrate how waterwise landscaping can be attractive as well.
Thanks to ongoing education and incentives, San Diego County residents have targeted more than one million square feet of turf grass for replacement with WaterSmart landscaping through free landscape makeover classes sponsored by the San Diego County Water Authority between 2013 and 2018. The Water Authority has documented an estimated savings of 33 million gallons annually,
Online landscape makeover tips available
If you need some inspiration or guidance, WaterSmartSD offers landscape makeover videos you can view on demand. This series of videos mirrors the content of the in-person workshops and four-class series. Each video takes you step-by-step through the process of creating your own beautiful, water-efficient landscape.
From measuring your property to getting to know your soil to picking the right plants for the right place, these entertaining and informative videos will guide you along the path to a WaterSmart landscape.
In addition, WaterSmartSD provides a list of online resources and guides to planning your landscape design project, soil analysis, compost and mulch, plant choices, and irrigation.
For additional information on 2020 Landscape Makeover Contest entry rules, go to WaterSmartLandscapes.
Click on the gallery below for more 2020 landscape makeover inspiration from past winners.
Planning for the amount of space your new plants will need when fully grown will help your landscape thrive. Photo: Sweetwater Authority
Rocks and small boulders are both aesthetically pleasing and useful in your landscape. Photo: Otay Water District
A diverse palette of colorful succulents, cacti, and California native plants add to the winning design. Photo: Sweetwater Authority
Fun decorative items can provide focal points for your new landscaping project. Photo: Sweetwater Authority
Colorful, water-wise plants replaced a thirsty, labor intensive front lawn in Deborah Brant’s winning landscape makeover. Photo: Vista Irrigation District
Melanie and Bob Buck’s colorful landscape makeover is the winner of the OMWD 2019 Landscape Contest. Photo: Olivenhain MWD
Laura Cates used succulents to create her winning landscape design in Oceanside. Photo: City of Oceanside
The colorful new landscaping can serve as an inspiration to other Carlsbad residents. Photo: OMWD
Compared to the previous landscaping with thirsty turf, the new landscaping uses much less water. Photo: Helix Water District
Even though this new WaterSmart Living landscape is only four months old, it is already in full bloom with California native plants. Photo: Helix Water District
The Kirkpatricks took advantage of the Water Authority’s WaterSmart Landscaping classes. Photo: Helix Water District
Homeowners learn through the Water Authority’s WaterSmart Landscape Makeover Series that sustainable landscaping can be as lush as a lawn. Photo Water Authority
The homeowners completed their yard décor with beautiful ceramic containers, gazing balls, and whimsical artwork including starfish and a peacock. Photo: Sweetwater Authority
Inspired by the San Diego County Water Authority’s free landscape makeover classes, Vallecitos Water District employee Eileen Koonce transformed her own landscaping. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Janet and Conrad Becks’ winning design came from their desire to save water and to showcase their makeover. Photo: City of Oceanside
Eileen Koonce says she was able to install her own landscaping with the help she received from course instructors. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Homeowner Eileen Koonce discovered watersmart landscaping can be colorful and attractive. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
The Oberkamp home after its landscaping makeover. Photo: Water Authority
The water agencies that serve the Fallbrook and Rainbow areas of North County have officially filed applications to detach from the San Diego County Water Authority, an unprecedented move with potential financial implications for almost all water customers in the county.
The Fallbrook Public Utility District and the Rainbow Municipal Water District filed “reorganization” applications with the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) on Wednesday. The filing has been expected for months and will likely trigger a lengthy process that could culminate, should the Water Authority have its way, with a vote of all customers served by any of the 24 water districts that belong to the umbrella water agency.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.png00Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2020-03-19 16:48:222020-03-24 12:02:21It’s Official: Two North County Districts Want Out of County Water Authority
