Southern California Agencies Emphasize Storage, Alternate Sources to Prepare for Dry Spell
(Rowland Heights, CA, February 11, 2014) – California Governor Edmund G. “Jerry” Brown, Jr. called upon all Californians to reduce water usage by twenty percent, declaring a state-wide water emergency due to the extended drought conditions plaguing the entire state. Rowland Water District has been preparing for just such an emergency for many years. This long-term planning has resulted in a stable supply of water to meet current and future demand, despite the severe drought conditions, so customers need not worry about the availability of a reliable water supply.
“Forward thinking and proper planning has enabled water agencies like ours here in Southern California to increase storage, and diversify our water sources so that despite these drought conditions, we are able to meet our customers’ needs,” says Ken Deck, General Manager of Rowland Water District.
Improvements to the water supply infrastructure, larger storage capacity, and tapping new sources of water are all keys to building a sustainable water supply for Rowland Water District, in preparation for this type of drought emergency. Given the cyclical nature of seasonal storms, particularly in Southern California, Rowland Water District developed a plan to maintain water levels appropriate to customer demand. Drought periods are not uncommon for California, and understanding that has led to a strong level of preparation within the water community.
“Our agency and our customers have invested a great deal over the last decade to prioritize conservation and develop a plan that would enhance, not limit, our water supply,” according to Ken Deck. “Those long-term investments have paid a dividend in a very dire period of drought: We have appropriate supplies to meet the needs of Southern California, so our customers can rest assured when they turn on the tap, our water will be there.”
Rowland Water District continues to invest in important conservation measures, and continues to develop new sources for a reliable potable water supply. Construction crews are currently constructing a 12-inch pipeline that will carry locally- sourced water into its service area for the first time since its incorporation in 1953. This joint regional effort between RWD, La Habra Heights County Water District, Walnut Valley Water District and Orchard Dale Water District will help the district cut back the District’s reliance on Metropolitan Water District for the potable water it provides to its customers.
As the District’s Strategic Plan states, “Rowland Water is committed to securing a long-term water supply for the region by proactively pursuing alternative supplies, limiting reliance on imported water and prioritizing diversification of RWD’s water source portfolio”. The Board of Directors, Management Team and Staff are dedicated to maintaining water reliability despite these serious drought conditions, and encourage each user to use water wisely.
For more information visit www.rwd.org.
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