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SECURING TOMORROW’S WATER:
EVMWD Revamps Its Integrated Resource Plan
EVMWD revised its 2017 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to tackle future
water supply challenges. These include threats to groundwater, fluctuations in
imported water availability, regulatory mandates, and climate change impacts
over the next three decades. Factors like rapid service area growth, rising
costs, and concerns over contaminants prompted stakeholder engagement to
define objectives. These focus on enhancing water supply reliability, ensuring
quality, and promoting sustainability. Our Climate Adaptation Plan will
further strengthen our efforts, ensuring our water systems are prepared to
face the challenges posed by climate change. Through adaptive management,
EVMWD aims to effectively implement the IRP, prioritizing investments in
locally controlled water supplies to mitigate shortages and ecosystem impacts.
SAFEGUARDING YOUR WATER:
EVMWD Acts Against PFAS Contamination
In the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) service area and
throughout communities statewide, concerns are mounting over the presence
of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in local water supplies. In
2019, EVMWD responded proactively by temporarily shutting down the
Canyon Lake Water Treatment Plant (CLWTP) upon detecting PFAS in the
source water, originating from the watershed, including runoff, and industrial
activities. PFAS, notorious for their persistent environmental presence,
pose significant challenges to maintaining water quality standards.
EVMWD is actively addressing PFAS contamination while ensuring fiscal
responsibility and adherence to water quality standards. Recognizing the imperative
of maintaining high standards, EVMWD allocated critical funding for CLWTP
upgrades. Following a thorough 9-month pilot study in 2020, EVMWD identified
an effective solution: a double-barrier approach utilizing granular activated
carbon (GAC) and ion exchange to enhance water treatment capabilities.
Despite anticipated costs surpassing $80 million, EVMWD remains resolute in
implementing CLWTP upgrades, scheduled to commence construction in late
2024 and conclude by 2027. This underscores EVMWD’s steadfast commitment to
delivering safe, dependable drinking water while responsibly managing resources.
Fortifying Local Resources: Lee Lake Wells
The Lee Lake Wells project aims to enhance the local water supply with an estimated
cost of $11.6 million. The project involves installing two new wells, PFAS treatment
infrastructure with advanced GAC technology, and a pump station. Benefiting
from a regional grant cost share, this initiative will ensure the production of safe,
reliable, and compliant water, strengthening local water resources' resilience.
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