It’s going to take a lot of rain and snow this winter to undo three straight dry years. The atmospheric rivers and severe storms that drenched the Bay Area recently were a big help, but a sustained wet season is necessary to refill local and state reservoirs. The snowpack survey by the California Department of Water Resources on January 3, 2023, showed that while we're off to a good start, we shouldn't count on these few storms alone to beat this drought.
Contra Costa Water District is doing our part to invest in new water supplies and focus on improving our climate change resiliency. Over the past several decades, we have built and expanded Los Vaqueros Reservoir, bought water from nearby water agencies, and worked to minimize water losses in the system. We continue water supply planning by developing another expansion of the Los Vaqueros Reservoir, modernizing the canal system, and replacing more aging water pipes than ever before. These projects reduce evaporation, seepage, and leaks.
In addition to CCWD’s efforts, conservation by customers has been invaluable in weathering this drought. Last summer, customers were asked to reduce water use and the results have been impressive! Thank you to our customers for finding new ways to conserve in Contra Costa! Please keep up the excellent work. Find drought tips, rebates, and resources available at ccwater.com/drought.