Well Sounding Data: Sounds Good!

Amapola Well, Montecito Water District

Source: Montecito Water District

MWD’s Directors reviewed signs of improvement and more at the August Board meeting; here’s an update:

• GROUNDWATER: Well sounding data indicates that groundwater levels in the Montecito Basin have recovered slightly after two consecutive wet winters—but remain well below historic basin “full” conditions. Several more consecutive wet years may fully recharge the basin. With the basin in recovery, MWD is “resting” its wells—not pumping—in order to keep groundwater in storage. Groundwater is an important source of supply for the District during drought conditions or when rainfall is below average. Following normal or above average rainfall, as we experienced last year, MWD can rely more heavily on surface supplies such as Lake Cachuma and Jameson Lake.

• FACILITIES: Water service won’t be affected by Southern California Edison’s planned Public Safety Power Shutoffs. All critical District facilities are equipped with emergency backup power, which is used during power outages to provide uninterrupted service to our customers.

• RATES: A rate study is underway and MWD will notify the public of upcoming meetings and timelines

• DESALINATION: Negotiations on a Water Supply Agreement are complete. A draft 50-year contract between MWD and the City of Santa Barbara is expected to be ready for review later this year, and will be available for public comment prior to being voted on by the agencies’ governing bodies.

• RECYCLED WATER / WATER REUSE:  MWD continues to move forward on a project for non-potable reuse (NPR – irrigation only) for large irrigation users with the option of indirect potable reuse (IPR – groundwater injection) pending a hydrogeologic investigation of the Montecito Groundwater Basin as recommended by the Recycled Water Facilities Plan. A Groundwater Augmentation Feasibility Analysis is underway to determine if the Montecito Groundwater Basin can receive injection of water, and results are anticipated before the end of the year. Water reuse benefits include extending drinking water supplies, enhancing water supply reliability, and reducing reliance on imported water supplies. The next joint committee meeting with MWD and Montecito Sanitary District is scheduled for September 19, 10:00 am at Montecito Sanitary District, 1042 Monte Cristo Lane.

• WATER SUPPLY OUTLOOK: A Stage 1 Water Shortage Emergency Condition remains in effect. Current water regulations and best practices for water use efficiency, along with the  Quarterly Water Supply Update, can be found online at www.montecitowater.com.Please call 805.969.2271 for more information.