Even though 2010 was a normal rainfall year, the State Water Project (our primary water source) is delivering only half of the Tri Valley’s allocation this year. Restrictions began three years ago to protect endangered fish in the Sacramento - San Joaquin Delta and are likely to continue while federal and state agencies restore the health of
Delta ecosystems.

To compensate for less imported water, our water wholesaler, Zone 7 Water Agency, is pumping more from local wells. Long term, drawing out more water than we replenish depletes the groundwater basin and makes our region more vulnerable to drought and continued
delivery restrictions.

Because our water supplies remain restricted, the District is keeping its Stage 1 Water Shortage in effect through at least 2010. The voluntary reduction goal remains at 20 percent.

Many studies have shown that a conservation-based rate structure is the most effective way to reduce water consumption. DSRSD water rates automatically increase in stages during declared water shortages. This encourages conservation by those who use the most water and provides the revenue DSRSD needs to keep operating a safe and reliable water system. Customers who conserve can largely offset the higher cost of their water.