Water Supply Reliability Focus of Sac River Project

Auburn, Calif. – The Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) Board of Directors received a report on the Sacramento River Regional Water Reliability Project at its meeting on November 5, 2015. Conceived more than a decade ago, the project would utilize a Sacramento River diversion to increase reliability and diversify the region’s water portfolio.  

“The recent drought has certainly renewed interest in the project,” PCWA General Manager, Einar Maisch said. “In addition to diversifying and increasing the reliability of the water supply, a Sacramento River diversion would help to preserve fishery, wildlife, recreational and aesthetic values of the Lower American River.”

The project unites twelve agencies, with PCWA designated as the project’s administrative agency. Project objectives and benefits include enhanced water supply reliability, enhanced stream flow on the Lower American River, protection of urban rivers and watersheds, enhanced groundwater sustainability, reduced reliance on Folsom Reservoir and the Lower American River, and additional flexibility in statewide system operations.

The Regional Water Authority (RWA) believes the project is a critical component in a regional Water Reliability Plan. An objective of that plan is to balance supplies delivered from local groundwater, with supplies delivered from the region’s major rivers. A new treated water supply from the Sacramento River, combined with interties between water purveyors, would provide optimal use of both groundwater and surface water.

“This project and the benefits are too big for just one agency,” PCWA Director, Robert Dugan said. “It’s encouraging to see our partnering agencies in the region come together and work toward the long-term sustainability of our water supply.”

Project partners include PCWA, California American Water, Carmichael Water District, Citrus Heights Water District, City of Folsom, City of Roseville, City of Sacramento, El Dorado County Water Agency, Rio Linda/Elverta Community Water District, Sacramento County Water Agency, Sacramento Suburban Water District, and San Juan Water District. The RWA, Sacramento Water Forum and the environmental caucus are also key partners in the project.

In other news, PCWA Directors:

– Approved a professional services agreement to conduct an Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) feasibility study for the agency. PCWA recognized the need to increase efficiency in meter reading and conducted an AMI pilot study in 2014. A cross-functional internal team has been created to develop an AMI implementation strategy.
– Approved annexation of the Mariposa of Riolo Vineyards development to PCWA’s Zone 1 service area. The 30-acre property is located west of Roseville.

For more information on PCWA Board meetings, please contact the Clerk to the Board at (530) 823-4850 or (800) 464-0030.