It's Groundwater Awareness Week
You Can Help Marina Coast Water District to
Protect and Conserve Our Groundwater
March 9-15 is National Groundwater Awareness Week and groundwater is the primary water source for Marina Coast Water District (MCWD) customers in Marina, Seaside, and the Ord Community. Thus, it's an excellent time to highlight the efforts MCWD and its partners are making to secure both current and future water supplies, and what individuals can do to help.
Managing Groundwater for the Future. MCWD is the designated Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) responsible for the long-term health of the local groundwater supply. Our many initiatives include a project with the Central Coast Wetlands Group to protect Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems and promote sustainable management.
Preventing Seawater Intrusion. MCWD is evaluating a plan to extract affected water near the coast to prevent seawater from moving inland.
Recycling Water for Future Use. MCWD has completed a study on injecting recycled water into the groundwater aquifer to support long-term water availability.
Collaborating to Protect Groundwater. MCWD is collaborating with the Seaside Watermaster and Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD) to install wells to monitor seawater intrusion.
Building a Diverse and Sustainable Long-Term Water Supply. The District is refitting its desalination plant, shares ownership in a water recycling plant, and has extensive groundwater rights.
How You Can Help Protect Groundwater Quality and Supply. Everyone can make a difference in protecting groundwater quality and supply by reducing pollution, minimizing waste, using less chemicals, storing rainwater, and educating others about the importance of conserving water. Specifically:
- Use native plants in your landscape as they don't need much water or fertilizer.
- Use fewer chemicals around your home and yard and dispose of them properly.
- Properly dispose of potentially toxic substances like unused chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Do not pour hazardous waste down your drain or toilet.
- Be water-wise. For example, shut off the water when you brush your teeth, check your faucets and toilets for leaks and fix them, limit showers to five minutes, and run full loads in the dish and clothes washers.
- Water your lawn and plants during the coolest parts of the day and only when they truly need it.
MCWD will continue to provide customers with affordable, high-quality water, recycled water, and wastewater services through effective planning, management, and development of water resources in an environmentally sensitive manner.