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Water Issues & Actions
 

Few issues are more important to Monterey County than water. LandWatch is working to make sure that future development doesn't lead to continued water overdraft, and that adequate water supplies are assured before development proceeds.

There are several water issues we are tracking, use the links below to find the project:

Salinas Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency

  • County Steps in to Help Basin Argument
    Portions of the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin are being contested by Salinas Valley and the City of Marina.  This could threaten the creation of the new Sustainability Agency and force the State to take over control of the entire basin. (09.24.19)

  • Chapter 9 Seems to be the Key to the Sustainability Requirement
    Described as where “everything” comes together for the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin Sustainability Agency, Chapter 9 shows the Department of Water Resources the plan can be implemented. Everyone will need to pay something, it was said, but others may need to pay more. (08.15.19)

  • LETTER: LandWatch Comments on Groundwater Plan (Chapter 6) (236K PDF file)
    In a letter to the new Groundwater Agency, LandWatch emphasized the lack of information available to confirm the actual amounts being pumped at the 180/400 foot sub-basin. In short, based on our analysis, the Agency must adopt adaptive management strategies?with a new baseline reduction in pumping?and adapt pumping limits as data becomes available. (08.05.19)

  • LETTER: LandWatch Comments on Groundwater Plan (Chapter 8) (236K PDF file)
    In a letter to the new Groundwater Agency, LandWatch generally supported the sustainable management criteria in this chapter. Specifically, we support a long-term future sustainable yield as the minimum threshold for reduction in groundwater storage and the measurable objective of moving the 500 Mg/L chloride isocontour to the line defined by Highway 1. That said, we raised several concerns including: seawater intrusion, reduction in groundwater storage, and groundwater dependent ecosystems. (07.02.19)

  • LETTER: LandWatch Comments on Groundwater Plan (Chapter 7) (516K PDF file)
    In a letter to the new Groundwater Agency, LandWatch emphasizes two points. First, the Agency needs independently calibrated and monitored flowmeters on agricultural pumps throughout the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin; and second, the annual pumping reports must be independently validated for accuracy. In addition, LandWatch believes the ordinance should also include strict enforcement provisions that help assure full compliance. (06.10.19)

Marina Coast Water District

  • Amicus Brief: LandWatch Supports MCWD Litigation (62K PDF file)
    LandWatch respectfully requests that the Court grant the writ of review requested by the City of Marina and Marina Coast Water District and vacate the decision by the Commission because the Commission failed to comply with CEQA in its consideration of alternatives. (02.05.19)

  • Focus on Real Issues, Not Hypothetical Ones
    Marina residents are finally engaging on water use issues, but challenges still lie ahead. The City of Marina, for example, will need to focus on its own water supply problems, including the pumping of water from the finite Deep Aquifer. (02.04.19)

  • Letter: LandWatch Submits Letter on Deep Aquifer (56K PDF file)
    LandWatch outlines concerns about the District?s continued reliance on water from the Deep Aquifer, especially in light of the seawater intrusion in Salinas Basin. LandWatch asks the District not to commit to providing additional groundwater for new developments without proper environmental review. (02.04.19)

  • Maps Show Saltwater Intrusion
    Using new technology, more freshwater was confirmed in the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin, but evidence of saltwater intrusion also present. (08.08.17)

  • Two Aquifers Have Saltwater Intrusion
    Keith Vandevere writes a thorough blog on how the saltwater intrusion into the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin is still occurring as maps confirm. And, impacts from the drought have yet to be felt. (08.08.17)

  • Water District Meeting on Budget is Complicated
    This meeting raised more questions than it answered. Many water agencies are considering rate increases.  Residents are furious; while others aren’t sure the proper process is being followed. (09.17.15)

  • Marina Coast Water District Seeks To Annex All Of Fort Ord (144K PDF file)
    Marina Coast Water District is proposing to annex the entire Fort Ord area. LandWatch sent a letter to both MCWD and LAFCO on November 17, 2011 questioning this proposal. We reviewed the Draft Initial Study/Negative Declaration for proposed changes to the MCWD jurisdictional boundaries. The project would amend MCWD’s Sphere of Influence and expand its Service Area to include all of the former Fort Ord including lands within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army. MCWD currently provides service to this area as outlined in the 1998 Water/Wastewater Facilities Agreement between FORA and MCWD which expires when FORA sunsets in 2014. The proposed project would allow water and wastewater service to continue beyond the FORA expiration and provide customers the right to vote for MCWD Board of Directors. We asked a variety of questions about the proposal and LandWatch outlined these questions at the LAFCO hearing on December 5th. (02.02.12)

  • LandWatch Comments on Marina Coast Water District’s Proposal to Expand Its Service Area To Encompass All of Fort Ord
    LandWatch submitted a letter to both Marina Coast Water District and LAFCO on November 17th commenting on the Draft Initial Study/Negative Declaration for proposed changes to the MCWD jurisdictional boundaries. The project would amend MCWD’s Sphere of Influence and expand its Service Area to include all of the former Fort Ord including lands within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army. MCWD currently provides service to this area as outlined in the 1998 Water/Wastewater Facilities Agreement between FORA and MCWD which expires when FORA sunsets. The proposed project would allow water and wastewater service to continue beyond the FORA expiration and provide customers the right to vote for MCWD Board of Directors. (12.10.11)

Monterey County Water Issues

  • Feasibility Study Moves Forward
    Consultants are expected to do additional analysis on the feasibility of a CalAm buyout by the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District. CalAm says it isn?t for sale, which means the courts may decide its fate. (08.21.19)

  • Buyout Could Take Several Years
    It appears more time is needed to determine if the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District would buyout the privately held CalAm water agency through a resolution of necessity. Because CalAm states it is not for sale, the District would purchase it via eminent domain. (08.20.19)

  • District Considers Buyout Soon
    The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District will consider the public buyout of CalAm?s local water system at its upcoming board meeting. A 15-page plan outlines the approach. (08.16.19)

  • Buy Out Plan Delayed
    A written public ownership plan will be presented to the Monterey County Water District later this month, but the report on actual feasibility of a public buy out of the Cal Am local water system has been delayed. (08.02.19)

  • Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin Map?(2.7M PDF file)
    The historical map of the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin shows seawater intrusion into the water supply. These historical records show the issue areas?especially near Salinas?and this scientific data is important when considered development projects relying on this already overdrafted water supply. (03.05.19)

  • Attorneys Advise Needing Early Benefits
    Attorneys for the Monterey Peninsula Water District indicate an early cost savings?and one that lasts?is needed to ensure the public?s interests are served by the buyout of CalAm, otherwise the District is taking a risk. (03.01.19)

  • Requests for Transparency on Study
    Sand City and a coalition of businesses are asking the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District to ensure a transparent process on the feasibility of Measure J?the CalAm buyout. A response from the District shows it is trying to balance transparency and a legal strategy. (02.21.19)

  • Listening Tour Continues
    The question of the definition of what is feasible and what is desirable?were both asked as part of the listening tour being run by the Marina Coast Water District. Voters approved Measure J, which allows for a public buy out of Cal Am if feasible. (01.17.19)

  • Pacific Grove Workshop on CalAm Buy Out
    Dave Stoldt, General Manager of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, outlined the steps for the possible public buyout of Cal Am at the first of several public workshops?this one in Pacific Grove. (01.11.19)

  • Analysis Begins on CalAm Buy Out
    Voters approved Measure J, which considers a public takeover of California American Water. The feasibility study will be completed in nine months. (01.03.19)

  • Water District Launches Listening Tour
    The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District will host a listening tour to hear from ratepayers on the possible buy out of Cal Am.  Tour dates include January 7, 8, 9, 10, and 15. (01.03.19)

  • Second Ballot Attempt Successful
    Four years ago a public buy out of California American Water failed at the ballot box.  After a few changes to the key players and a new strategy, it was successful in November 2008. Public Water Now, the ballot measure backer, noted the public is fed up with CalAm and that?s why they supported the measure. (12.26.18)

  • Pacific Grove Workshop on CalAm Buy Out
    Dave Stoldt, General Manager of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, outlined the steps for the possible public buyout of Cal Am at the first of several public workshops?this one in Pacific Grove. (01.11.19)

  • Water District Launches Listening Tour
    The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District will host a listening tour to hear from ratepayers on the possible buy out of Cal Am.  Tour dates include January 7, 8, 9, 10, and 15. (01.03.19)

  • Cal-Am Fights Measure J Ballot Measure
    On the ballot for November is Measure J, which after a feasibility analysis if it was in the public?s interest would complete a public buyout of the water system of California American Water.  CalAm is spending thousands fighting this proposal by sending out mailers. (10.04.18)

  • Supervisors Adopt a Moratorium on Two Wells
    Law requires planning for sustainable groundwater basins, but two wells have saltwater intrusion, so Supervisors adopted a moratorium. (07.09.18)

  • Seawater Intrusion Will Worsen
    Water in greater than water out. Simple equation. Seawater intrusion will continue to worsen until overpumping of aquifers stops. As the Squid writes, "It’s the same old kicking the can down the road Squid’s seen for years, and ignores the basic fact that growers continue to pump groundwater in unsustainable amounts, which is what led to the seawater intrusion in the first place.” (05.02.18)

  • Supervisors Overturn Well Denial
    The Board of Supervisors voted to allow an agricultural well to be added at a deeper aquifer level even though County agencies had already denied the permit application due to the saltwater intrusion in the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin. (02.15.18)

  • Salinas Valley Groundwater Oversight
    To avoid state intervention, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors voted to assume oversight responsibility of disputed areas within the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin. (06.29.17)

  • Water Conservation Order Extended
    In May, Governor Brown extended the short-term water conservation Executive Order. Yesterday, forecasters reviewed the weather models for California. It appears we are in for another year of drought along with extremely hot summer days.  (05.10.16)

  • Water Conservation Improves in Monterey County
    Monterey County residents meet and in some places exceed water conservation requirements. Locally, our biggest cities ranged from 9-18% reductions--12% was required. Statewide 23.9% was achieved and 25% was mandated. Keep up the great work! (04.06.16)

  • More Water Goes to SLO from Lake Naciemento
    San Luis Obispo communities voted to withdraw their max shares of water from Lake Naciemento. The water can be used to reduce reliance on things like groundwater and extend existing supplies for future use (like during times of drought). (03.17.16)

  • South County Reservoirs Struggling Still
    While other reservoirs are filling up with the recent rains, those in South Monterey County are still in dire need of water. Lake Naciemento is only at 33% capacity. The lake releases water each day to prevent groundwater pumping over the summer and fall, but without water the releases have not occurred. (03.15.16)

  • Rain in North, Not in South, Impacts Groundwater
    Years ago, Monterey County wisely built two reservoirs to collect winter rains and recharge the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin in the summer. Both the San Antonio and Nacimiento dams are owned and operated by the Monterey County Water Resources Agency. The reservoirs started out the rainy season extraordinarily low due to the drought. The Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin has not been recharged since 2013. (02.11.16)

  • Subsidence Due to Crop Irrigation
    This is a great article on groundwater and subsidence issues. The land subsides when too much groundwater is removed, this subsidence (sinking) damages infrastructure too--even infrastructure meant to carry water can be impacted. Specific crops like vineyards seem to have taken a toll on the groundwater availability, as do other water intensive crops. Residents note that multiple wells have gone dry and this is only exacerbated by the historic drought. (12.10.15)

  • Groundwater Regulations Signed into Law
    While the phrase “local control” seemed to fit decades ago for monitoring groundwater resources, locals are now wondering now to fund and manage an agency to review local groundwater issues.  Governor Brown just signed into law the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, which creates safeguards and manages California’s groundwater.  (09.16.15)

  • Water Needs Include $20+ Million Fix
    This week the Monterey County Water Resources Agency gave a grim report to the Board of Supervisors about its dire financial situation and how that will impact planning and projects to bring the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin into balance. Estimates show to complete just a fraction of the core plan for the basin will cost in excess of $20 million over the next five years. State law requires full sustainability by 2042, meaning the water that is being pumped out needs to equal what is recharged. How is this possible when development projects keep getting approved that further drain the already over-drafted basin? (05.19.15)

  • Drought Impacts to Groundwater Basin
    Salinas Valley has a saltwater intrusion problem in the groundwater basin. Research indicates that the intrusion is exacerbated during times of drought, but that the true extent of the problem doesn't show up for several years after the end of the drought. (05.10.15)

  • Tiered Water Pricing Deemed Unconstitutional
    Wow! This is a big decision in the water world. Apparently tiered water rates have been ruled unconstitutional. The ruling comes after residents in San Juan Capistrano filed suit. If you use more water, you get charged more. The Court of Appeals decided you can only charge as much as the water costs (based on California law). (04.20.15)

  • State of the Basin: Overdrawn, Like We Thought
    The State of the Basin report presented to the Board of Supervisors indicates that a shift in pumping locations could help alleviate saltwater intrusion into the groundwater basin in Salinas Valley. Interestingly, an average of up to 24,000 acre feet per year is pumped from the basin rather than replenished. (12.17.14)

  • Weekly’s Editorial Board Recommends Yes Vote on Measure O
    The Monterey Weekly Editorial Board recommends a YES vote on Measure O since it calls for a feasibility study.  This study would determine if CalAm should be bought out and then become publicly owned.  If bought out the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District would take it over. (05.08.1

  • State of the Basin – Groundwater Report (7.1M PDF file)
    The Monterey County Board of Supervisors will hear the Staff Report (123K PDF file) and the State of the Basin Report (7.1M PDF file)—a required report, completed every five years. In addition to reviewing the consequences of a prolonged drought the basin is analyzed with recommendations made to reduce consequences of further groundwater depletion.

  • LandWatch Questions Marina Coast Water District and the County of Monterey about a Proposed Agreement to Accept Millions in Reimbursements from California American Water for Work on the Regional Project
    On Wednesday, February 24th, the Marina Coast Water District approved an agreement with California American Water (Cal-Am) to accept reimbursement for work to be performed by the District and Monterey County Water Resources Agency through the end of the year. Up to $4.3 million would be provided to these agencies which would repay the loan. However, under the agreement, Cal-Am could forgive the loan. The agreement, only posted 24 hours for the public to review, may violate the California Environmental Quality Act and Local Agency Formation Commission requirements. Cal-Am ratepayers on the Peninsula could also end up paying for a project that would benefit non-Cal-Am customers. The same agreement was approved by the Monterey County Board of Supervisors in closed session on Friday, February 26th. (03.02.10)

    The letters below were submitted to Marina Coast Water District and the County last week.

California American Water Company
Desalination Plant

  • Marina Creates Conflicting Agency
    The Salinas Valley created its own groundwater management entity, and then the City of Marina creates one for itself. Marina?s district overlaps with the Salinas Valley area and therefore puts a halt on the plans created from the Valley.  Marina?s goal: stop the CalAm desalination plant. (09.18.19)

  • Memo Released by Water District (268K PDF file)
    In a memo released by Monterey Peninsula Water Management District General Manager David J. Stoldt, he outlines the work being done on the Pure Water Monterey expansion.  Further, it looks at available water supplies and meeting existing and future water needs. (09.13.19)

  • State Supreme Court Declines Review
    The Marina Coast Water District and City of Marina sued over the Public Utilities Commission?s approval of the CalAm desalination plant on the Monterey Peninsula. The State Supreme Court decline review of the District and City?s petition. (09.04.19)

  • Marina Coast Water District Files Suit
    The Marina Coast Water District filed a lawsuit seeking to stop the construction of the CalAm desalination plant. The District believes Monterey Council officials ignored groundwater impact information. The vote by the Board of Supervisors, in July, was split 3-2. (08.19.19)

  • County Approves Desal Plant
    In a 3-2 vote, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors approved the Cal Am desalination plant to begin?even without the Coastal Commission?s approval. The Commission?s approval would be up in November, but the County?s decision allows work to begin in September. (07.15.19)

  • Appeals Set for Coastal Commission
    Though the Monterey County Board of Supervisors is set to hear the Cal Am desalination plant project, the project is also going through the appeal process at the California Coastal Commission stemming from the City of Marina?s rejection of the project. (07.12.19)

  • Opinion Piece on Desalination Plant
    This OpEd was written about the Cal Am Desalination Plant and outlines several issues with the project, including water rights, environmental damage, cost to Peninsula residents, and more. (07.11.19)

  • Hearing Set for Appeal
    On July 11th the California Coastal Commission will hear the appeal on the California American Water Desalination Plant permit. The City of Marina denied the permit last March. (06.28.19)

  • City and Commission Disagree on Decision
    Since CalAm withdrew its application to have the Marina City Council review the application, the City feels there is no appeal option to the Coastal Commission, but the Commission disagrees. The City also believes the water agency failed to exhaust its administrative remedies. (05.13.19)

  • Permit Remains in Limbo
    Even with residents and groups in attendance, the City Council was a no show on its hearing for the CalAm Coastal Development Permit. The water agency withdrew its application at the last minute and left the public without a hearing. (05.09.19)

  • CalAm Withdraws Permit Appeal
    The Marina City Council was set to hear the CalAm desalination project appeal, but the water company contested three councilmembers? ability to vote on the project. CalAm has since withdrawn its appeal and will go straight to the Coastal Commission instead. (04.25.19)

  • CalAm Gets Narrow Approval for Desal Plant
    Concerned with the long term need for more water on the Monterey Peninsula, the County Planning Commission narrowly approved the CalAm Desalination plant near Marina. It passed with a 6-4 vote. (04.25.19)

  • Commission Hearing Scheduled
    The Monterey County Planning Commission is set to hear the CalAm desalination plant project on April 25, 2019. The $132 million project is one of the key components of the Monterey Peninsula Water Supply project. (04.20.19)

  • CalAm Rate Hike for Pipeline Project
    This first in a series of rate hikes will help cover the $50 million pipeline project and the $100 million Pure Water Project.  An average monthly bill is expected to be around $135 per household. (04.17.19)

  • Proposed Expansion Lacking Details
    CalAm is getting early details on a possible expansion of the Pure Water facility, but the details aren?t far enough along to determine if an expansion could help Monterey District customers. The General Manager noted additional environmental review would be needed as well. (03.20.19)

  • Desal Project Appealed
    CalAm has appealed the decision by the Planning Commission, which denied the permit for its project.  The appeal argues the opposite of the resolution?s claims by the City of Marina and will be sent to the City Council first. An appeal to the Coastal Commission is expected. (03.14.19)

  • Commissioners Denied CalAm?s Permit
    Marina?s Planning Commission considered the application for a permit by the California American Water company for its proposed desalination plant and planned to deny it.? March 7th?is the next hearing, where staff was directed to return with findings to deny the coastal development permit. (02.15.19)

  • First Public Hearing on Desal Project
    Ahead of the first public hearing by the City of Marina’s Planning Commission, Cal-Am is asking two Commissioners to recuse themselves. Based on a review of the application, City staff is asking that the application be denied. (02.13.19)

  • Pure Water Facility Nearing Completion
    In May 2017, construction began on the Pure Water Monterey facility.  It is nearing the final stages of completion and is designed to create a new source of potable water supply by summer. (02.01.19)

  • Workshop Focuses on Water Rights
    Public Water Now hosts a forum on whether or not Cal-Am actually has water rights to “use” for its desalination plant. The project involves tapping Marina’s water supply, hence the concern for lack of rights to the water. (01.28.19)

  • Marina to Consider Desal Application
    The California American Water Desalination Plant permit application for a Coastal Development Permit is being considered by the City of Marina. The City?s Planning Commission will likely hear the application on February 14th. (01.21.19)

  • Petitioners Seek Rehearing by CPUC
    In a request to the California Public Utilities Commission, the City of Marina and the Marina Coast Water District request the Commission rehear the CalAm desalination project?all of this while their case is pending review by the California Supreme Court. Ultimately they seek a rehearing to reverse the decision. (10.24.18)

  • Agencies Sue Cal Am Over Desal Plant
    The City of Marina and Marina Coast Water District are litigating the CPUC?s decision to approve the environmental review and has asked the State Supreme Court to overturn the decision. (10.17.18)

  • Two Agencies Sue on Desal Plant Decision
    The Marina Coast Water District and City of Marina have taken the CalAm Desalination Plant approval to the State Supreme Court after the Public Utilities Commission approved it in September. At least one of the claims is that the California Environmental Quality Act was violated. (10.15.18)

  • Marina Takes the Hit on Desal Plant, With No Water
    The California Public Utilities Commission is allowing the CalAm desal plant to move forward, which may be great news for some cities that would get water, but not for Marina where the plant would be built.  This means Marina, where less affluent residents live, will absorb the associated impacts?especially environmental?with little fight from the permitting agencies. (10.02.18)

  • Water Agencies Fight Each Other
    Public Water Now pushes back against CalAm?s $1 billion estimate for its water system stating that it is a scare tactic.  Public Water Now is advocating for Measure J which allows for a public buy out of the system and this number may scare voters. (09.20.18)

  • What the CPUC Decision Means
    The slightly revised decision from the CPUC includes fewer protections for the ratepayers, but requires CalAm to investigate expanding the Pure Water facility?but not actually expand it if it is a viable option. (09.14.18)

  • CPUC Gives Thumbs Up to Project
    The California Public Utilities Commission gave a unanimous go ahead to the CalAm desalination project and its environmental review documents even with massive miscalculations and comments from the public, agencies, and non-profits like LandWatch. (09.13.18)

  • Questions Remain as Decision Moves Closer
    The California Utilities Commission is poised to make a decision on the CalAm desalination project, but huge questions loom.  Mainly, how does the project?s financial risk get absorbed (ratepayers or shareholders)? (09.13.17)

  • Cal Am?s Bad Math Could Mean 50% Great Costs
    Unrealistic assumptions and bad math on the Cal Am project could lead to costly and risky outcome. (09.13.18)

  • OpEd: LandWatch Supports Recycled Water
    LandWatch Executive Director Michael DeLapa penned this Opinion Editorial related to the California American Water Desalination Plant.  He critiques the Public Utilities Commission for ignoring existing demand, failing to recognize the inherent bias in forecasting, and ignores ratepayer risks. (09.07.18)

  • CalAm Decision Thursday by CPUC
    Thursday, the California Public Utilities Commission considers a proposed desal project?and will consider the project?s environmental review documents. LandWatch and others have submitted comments opposing this costly and risky alternative. (09.08.18)

  • OpEd: LandWatch Opposes Desal, Supports Recycled Water
    LandWatch ED Mike DeLapa pens this OpEd describing the many years of proceedings, false starts, and delays, and how the California Public Utilities Commission is now finally considering a Proposed Decision that would permit California American Water to build a 6.4 million gallons per day desalination facility. LandWatch opposes the Proposed Decision because it is the costliest and riskiest water supply alternative. (09.07.18)

  • LandWatch Submits Comments on CPUC Decision (2.6M PDF file)
    LandWatch and Surfrider Foundation filed joint comments on the California Public Utilities Commission?s (CPUC) Proposed Decision (PD) on California American Water?s (Cal Am) desalination plan. Read the comments. (links to comments) 09.04.18

  • LandWatch Urges Change in CPUC Decision
    LandWatch opposes the CPUC?s Proposed Decision on desalination because it is the costliest and riskiest water supply alternative. (08.28.18)

  • All Commissioners Attend CPUC Hearing
    All five commissioners attended the California Public Utilities Commission hearing on the proposed desalination plan. The Commission asked questions on the water demands of the Peninsula, sizing and capacity requirements were questioned as well. (08.23.18)

  • CPUC Recommends Approval of Desal Plant
    California American Water’s desalination project received a proposed decision from a three-judge panel with the California Public Utilities Commission. In the 220+ page filing, the panel found the desal plant was the best option available for an expeditious replacement of much needed water and will help reduce pumping from the Seaside basin. (08.14.18)

  • Desal Plants Gets CPUC’s Blessing
    CalAm had been withdrawing 14,100 acre feet of water per year for Monterey Peninsula residents, but were only legally entitled to 3,376. Now, after 23 years of turmoil, a solution is here. CalAm has proposed a desalination plant in Marina to replace the “lost” water from the Carmel River. Judges at the CPUC ruled that the project could proceed. (08.14.18)

  • CPUC to Decide on Desal Project, then to Commission
    The California Public Utilities Commission expects to release its decision on the California American Water desalination plant next week. It is then scheduled for the California Coastal Commission on September 13. Opponents state an affirmative vote by the Coastal Commission isn?t guaranteed based on the projects vulnerabilities. (08.06.18)

  • CPUC to Hear Desal Project Argument
    The California Public Utilities Commission will formally consider the proposal for the California American Water desalination plant next month when the Marina Coast Water District, City of Marina, supporters and opponents make their case. August 22nd at 2 PM in San Francisco is when the oral argument will be heard. (07.26.18)

  • Desal Project in Home Stretch
    The decision by the California Public Utilities Commission on the proposed desalination plant must be submitted by August 1st (or sooner). Then a 30-day public review period ensues with a September meeting date to consider the project. September 30th is the deadline for the river cutback order milestone. (07.08.18)

  • Petition Filed Related to Pure Water Project
    Landwatch Monterey County is one of the petitioners. "A petition to the state water board has been filed this week seeking to revise the Carmel River cutback order to add new, parallel milestones aimed at accommodating a proposed Pure Water Monterey expansion capable of providing an alternative replacement water source to meet the cutback order in case California American Water?s proposed desalination project is delayed." A feasibility study found that "the total Pure Water Monterey production of 5,750 acre-feet per year would be sufficient to bridge the gap and allow Cal Am to stop all unauthorized diversions." (05.10.18)

  • CPUC Acknowledges Permit Delays
    The California Public Utilities Commission extended the deadline through the end of the year for the permit process on the California American Water desalination plant.  It appears likely additional delays will occur for the Carmel River pumping cutback by September 30. (03.14.18)

  • Funds go to Pure Water Project
    The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has funds available for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades.  Nearly half of the EPA?s California allocation of $173.5 million will go to the Pure Water project in Monterey County. (02.14.18)

  • State Public Utilities Company to Revisit Desal Plant
    There may be some movement on the desalination plant proposed by CalAm in that it is going to be revisited by the California Public Utilities Commission. The CPUC Judge asked all parties to meet and discuss the Commission?s review of the settlement agreement from the Marina Coast Water District lawsuit. (01.19.18)

  • County and CalAm Win Over Marina Coast Water District Suit
    The State Appeals Court ruled that the Marina Coast Water District is responsible for millions of dollars of legal fees over failed desalination plant. The District?s General Manager will consult with the District?s Board to determine if it will appeal to the State Supreme Court. (01.03.18)

  • Guest Commentary Outlines Flaws in EIR
    The General Manager of the Marina Coast Water District outlines the District’s most critical concerns about the proposed CalAm Desalination Plant, including: flawed analysis of groundwater impacts, Grossly inadequate groundwater modeling, inadequate mitigation, and the project is massively oversized and is not needed. (04.08.17)

  • LandWatch Submits Comments on Draft EIR/EIS
    LandWatch focused its comments on three key issues within the environmental document for the CalAm Desalination Project.  These included: water allocation inconsistencies, cumulative groundwater impacts being inadequately evaluated, and that the return water obligation is unclear. (03.27.17)

  • Salinas Valley Basin Water will be returned to Basin
    The desalination portion of the MPWSP intends to obtain its source water from subsurface slant coastal supply wells in the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin. The Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin has been plagued for decades with seawater intrusion because of overpumping, which jeopardizes our agricultural and domestic water supply. LandWatch has long supported finding a realistic solution to the water supply problems on both the Monterey Peninsula and the Salinas Valley, and we believe the solution to one problem should not aggravate the other.

    The desalination project's source water wells may further harm the basin to the extent that Salinas Valley groundwater is pumped along with ocean water. One way to mitigate this harm would be to return any fresh water pumped by the source wells to the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin. Returning this water to the basin to existing groundwater users who use it to offset their pumping will help mitigate harm from the desalination source wells. One great option for this "return" water is the community of Castroville, whose wells are now going salty.

  • Cal-Am Public Meeting Shows Frustrated Public
    Cal-Am's dirty laundry aired... says one speaker at the first public forum offered by California American Water. The article reiterates that if there was any doubt before how people felt, the board now knows people are frustrated. (08.19.15)

  • Comments Due July 1st on Desal Project
    The California Public Utilities Commission has offered a 60 day period for the public to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the desalination project. This is the public's opportunity to provide substantive feedback on issues like traffic, energy use, greenhouse gases, etc. (06.06.15)

  • Water Project DEIR Released
    Within the 1700 page multi-volume Environmental Impact Report, the conclusion is that a smaller desal plant combined with a new groundwater replenishment system is environmentally superior to the large desal option. What do you think? Public comments on this Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project are due July 1, 2015. (04.30.15)

  • Surfrider Submitted a Brief Opposing the Sizing Settlement for CalAm’s Desal Plant (70K PDF file)
    Surfrider contents water for lots of record is not supported (because it fails to reflect lowered per capita usage and unbuildable lots); water for tourism bounce-back is not supported (because there is no evidence that water shortage is hampering bounce-back or that the bounce will return to previous levels); lots of record and bounce-back water should be restricted to those uses; and Pacific Grove's water should be incorporated.(01.21.13)

  • Monterey Peninsula Water Update
    LandWatch has been closely following the Peninsula’s Water crisis and proposed solutions since 2008 when Cal-Am first proposed a desalination project. There are now three competing proposals: the CalAm Water Supply Project, DeepWater Desal Project and the People’s Moss Landing Project. Numerous concerns exist about all of these projects which have been outlined in a recent report. (03.13.13)

  • CalAm Water Project to Get NEPA Environmental Review
    Cal-Am was directed to complete an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for its water project. The EIS must discuss a range of alternatives along with the proposed action and analyze them on equal footing, i.e. comparatively analyzed. It is also recommended that an agency prepare a comparable financial analysis to help inform the decision. (10.30.12)

  • Board of Supervisors Special Hearing on Governance Structure
    The Board of Supervisors will meet September 28th to considering signing onto a governance structure for the Cal-Am owned desalination facility. Though LandWatch supports public ownership, we believe this step is premature for a number of reasons. (09.27.12)

    LandWatch Involvment

California American Water Company
Groundwater Replenishment (PureWater)

  • Recycling Project Hailed National Model
    The long awaited Pure Water Monterey recycling water project was completed. This project uses agricultural runoff and other wastewater sources and converts them to potable drinking water.  It could bring 1/3 of Peninsula?s drinking water from this new source. (10.04.19)

  • Water District Says Recycled Water Will Do
    Reports are mixed as to whether or not the Peninsula can get by with just recycled water instead of a desalination facility. The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District thinks the recycled water will not only be enough, but also meet the state mandated cutbacks required on the Salinas River. (09.18.19)

  • Pure Water Project Delayed
    The recycled water project has hit another delay. Last month a schedule outlined key milestones, but it isn?t on target as the complexity of the project proves challenging. The project could begin extracting water around the first quarter of 2020. (09.13.19)

  • Work to Begin on Water Project
    After a split vote by the Board of Supervisors, Cal Am, the project proponent, will be begin work on its Pure Water facility. The project expected to generate 6.4 million gallons per day and sits on a 25-acre site. (07.16.19)

  • Pure Water Fails to Meet Agreement Deadlin
    Monday?s deadline to deliver potable water via the Pure Water Monterey project wasn?t met. It is expected to be September or October before delivery is available. (07.03.19)

  • Monning?s Bill Moves Forward
    The California Senate, approved with a few amendments, the bill to extend FORA only until July 1, 2020. The bill now goes to the State Assembly for consideration. (05.28.19)

  • Pure Water Challenges County Decision
    Pure Water has appealed the County Planning Commission decision on the CalAm desal project arguing that the project fails to address several fundamental issues like groundwater rights. (05.20.19)

  • Pure Water Project to Start Environmental Review
    Monterey One Water issued its notice for a supplemental environmental impact report for the Pure Water facility. There is a 30-day review period and comments close June 14, 2019. (05.16.19)

  • Groundbreaking for PureWater Project
    Through a public-private partnership a key milestone was reached for the Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency, the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District and California American Water.  The Pure Water recycled water project broke ground. (05.05.17)

  • Pure Water Gets Wide Ranging Support 
    California leaders made it clear replacement water supplies are needed. The Pure Water Monterey project is promising safe, sustainable, and economically responsible water for the region. LandWatch is one of many supporting this project. (06.11.16)

  • PureWatch Agreement Approved
    LandWatch became an intervenor in the Cal-Am Water Supply Project primarily to ensure the Groundwater Replenishment Project, now called Pure Water Monterey, comes to fruition. Last Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve the Pure Water Monterey project. (11.03.15)

  • Pure Water Project Goes to Board
    The Board of Supervisors will decide to sign the Memorandum of Understanding for the PureWater project.  This innovative groundwater replenishment project provides a guaranteed water source. (11.02.15)

  • Pure Water Project EIR Approved
    This cutting edge groundwater replenishment system project recycles waste water and storm water to recharge the Seaside aquifer and provide irrigation water for Salinas Valley agriculture.  LandWatch has long supported Pure Water and we are pleased with the outcome.   (10.12.15)

  • Pure Water EIR to be Reviewed
    October 8th the Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency will consider certification of the final Environmental Impact Report at a public hearing. What is being evaluated/considered is the groundwater replenishment project. (09.28.15)

  • Groundwater Replenishment Project EIR Released
    The Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency (MRWPCA) has released a Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR) for the Pure Water Monterey Groundwater Replenishment Project. MRWPCA is the Lead Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The public review and comment period for the Draft EIR runs for 45 days, beginning April 22, 2015 and ending June 5, 2015. A copy of the Draft EIR is available for review during normal business hours at the MRWPCA Administrative Office, 5 Harris Court, Bldg. D, Monterey, CA 93940. (04.22.15)

  • CPUC Holds Public Participation Hearings on January 9th
    The California Public Utilities Commission is taking public testimony on Cal-Am’s Water Supply Project. LandWatch has three main concerns: Cal-Am’s groundwater rights, including a portfolio of water supply solutions, and public ownership through the Hybrid Regional Plan. (01.03.13)

    LandWatch Involvment

Hybrid Regional Plan

  • LandWatch Updates Hybrid Regional Plan
    LandWatch has developed an updated hybrid plan to address regional water supply issues in light of new information. Several local organizations have endorsed this plan already. (03.30.12)

  • LandWatch supports the Hybrid Regional Water Plan at the CA Public Utilities Commission Hearing
    On July 13th LandWatch and a group of environmental groups testified at the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) hearing that took place right in Monterey’s City Hall. We presented the Hybrid Regional Water Plan as the environmentally superior alternative to the Coastal Water Project. Below is the LandWatch letter submitted to the PUC administrative law judge, Judge Minkin, and Commissioner John Bohn. (07.19.09)

  • Hybrid Regional Water Plan: The Environmentally Superior Alternative
    LandWatch and a group of community stakeholders developed a Hybrid Regional Water Plan, endorsed to date by the League of Women Voters of the Monterey Peninsula, the Prunedale Neighbors Group, the Carmel Valley Association, and the Ventana Chapter of the Sierra Club. (07.10.09)

Aromas Water District

  • LandWatch Comments On The Aromas Water District’s Proposal To Increase Its Sphere of Influence To Include Two Neighborhoods In Monterey County
    LandWatch submitted a letter to the Aromas Water District and LAFCO on November 22nd regarding AWD’s proposal which includes: Sphere of Influence (SOI) amendment to add approximately 1,720 acres within the AWD’s SOI boundary within Monterey County; annexation of two existing subdivisions to the AWD and provision of domestic water service to approximately 72 existing homes; the annexation areas are within the proposed SOI amendment area; creation of an assessment district to finance improvements for the proposed annexation areas; and construction of water system improvements to serve the proposed annexation areas, which includes extension of water lines and construction of accessory water system improvements. We commented that the proposed delivery of water is an illegal appropriation/export out of the overdrafted groundwater Pajaro Valley Groundwater Basin to Via del Sol. Neither PVWMA nor Monterey County has the authority to grant approval for the out-of-basin transfer of Pajaro Valley Groundwater into the Moro Cojo/Salinas Valley Watershed. The PVWMA authorizing statue prohibits out of basin transfers, and there is no justification under California law or CEQA that allows PVWMA to ignore the overlying rights of Pajaro Valley landowners. (12.10.11)

  • LandWatch Comments On The Aromas Water District’s proposal To Annex 1,720 Acres Into Service Area (112K PDF file)
    LandWatch sent a letter to the Aromas Water District and LAFCO on November 22, 2011 regarding AWD’s Sphere of Influence (SOI) amendment to add approximately 1,720 acres within the District’s SOI boundary within Monterey County. The proposed annexation includes two existing subdivisions to the Aromas Water District and provision of domestic water service to approximately 72 existing homes; the annexation areas are within the proposed SOI amendment area. The proposal also includes the creation of assessment district to finance improvements for proposed annexation areas and the construction of water system improvements to serve the proposed annexation areas, which includes extension of water lines and construction of accessory water system improvements. LandWatch raised questions about the legality of the proposed delivery of water out of the overdrafted groundwater Pajaro Valley Groundwater Basin to Via del Sol. We stated that neither PVWMA nor Monterey County has the authority to grant approval for the out-of-basin transfer of Pajaro Valley Groundwater into the Moro Cojo/Salinas Valley Watershed. The PVWMA authorizing statue prohibits out of basin transfers, and there is no justification under California law or CEQA that allows PVWMA to ignore the overlying rights of Pajaro Valley landowners. (11.22.11)

Regional Desalination Projects

Coastal Water Project

  • Addendum to Coastal Water Project EIR
    On April 25th, LandWatch submitted technical comments to the County Board of Supervisors on the Regional Water Project EIR Addendum for the Test Well Program.  LandWatch pointed out that the Addendum was released very late to the public, giving a limited amount of time to review the document. Additionally, a new environmental impact report is required under the California Environmental Quality Act rather than an Addendum to the existing one. (05.05.11)

  • Issues related to regional water project and settlement/financial agreement developed by the LWV/MP, LandWatch, Sierra Club and Carmel Valley Association
    In order to help you better understand LandWatch's concerns with the Regional Project and related Settlement Agreements (as currently proposed), click on this link to read a list of issues developed by the League of Women Voters of the Monterey Peninsula, LandWatch, Sierra Club, and the Carmel Valley Association. (06.26.10)

  • What’s new with the Coastal Water Project?
    On December 17, 2009, The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) certified the 3,100 page Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) for the Coastal Water Project. Certification (finding the document adequate) was originally scheduled for January 2010, but the action was expedited to December presumably to enable local agencies to use the document for their actions. (02.05.10)

  • LandWatch and the Salinas Valley Ag Trust submit letters on Final EIR for the Coastal Water Project
    LandWatch Monterey County recently submitted a letter to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on the final environmental impact report (FEIR) for the Coastal Water Project. LandWatch is very concerned about the potential growth-inducing impacts of the project and the potential impacts on North County’s water supply. (02.05.10)

  • LW comment letter on the Coastal Water Project DEIR
    LandWatch Monterey County recently submitted a comment letter on the Coastal Water Project’s Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR). It is our hope that Monterey County can soon begin to solve our critical water supply problems. (04.24.09)

Other Water Issues

  • Local Fees Likely to Increase to Create New Agency
    In order to fund the new Salinas Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency non-agricultural residents and irrigated agricultural user fees will likely increase July 1st. The agency?s creation was required by state law and will focus on the sustainability of the groundwater resources. (01.24.19)

  • Senate Approves Wolk’s Groundwater Bill
    This week the Senate approved two groundwater bills offered by Senator Lois Wolk.  One bill addresses cities and counties with high and medium priority basins to set up a permit process by 2018.  The other bans drilling new wells in the 21 critically overdrafted basins in California. (06.02.16)

  • Effective Groundwater Agencies Needed
    During the drought water is continually pumped from the ground—often in a race to the bottom of the aquifer.  Changes in the land can even be seen from space, with a 2” drop in the land every month.  While legislation is pending, some believe it is not enough and leaves important questions unanswered. (05.16.16)

  • Wolk’s Groundwater Bill Moving Forward
    State Senator Lois Wolk (Davis) authored a bill to protect our groundwater and aquifer basins from permanent damage due to overdraft. It was recently heard by the Natural Resources and Water Committee and was approved 6-2. The bill, SB 1317, if approved, would protect aquifers by requiring cities and counties overlying high- and medium-priority basins to apply conditions to permits for new wells by July 1, 2017. (04.17.16)

  • Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin Survey
    We just sent an email out with three options to participate in the Salinas Valley Groundwater Basin survey. Since we can't link to all three... here is a link to the email with the options. Please participate as it helps inform the outcome. It is due by Friday, December 4th. (11.19.15)

  • Monterey County Water Supply Summary
    LandWatch and the Monterey Peninsula League of Women Voters’ summary of water supply projects for Monterey County. (10.21.08)

  • New Subdivisions Could Be Allowed To Make Overdraft Worse
    Current County policy prevents new subdivisions in areas of groundwater overdraft. The Board of Supervisors is being asked to change that rule. Read the LandWatch letter for the full story. (06.02.03)

  • LandWatch Urges Opposition of No Net Increase (9.12.98)

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