Our Endangered Water Supply and
Benefits of Desalination

 

Why do we need a supplemental supply source?

• During drought conditions (similar to the late 1970's), the City of Santa Cruz would have a shortage of water (approximately 40-45%).
  

• Despite great efforts to conserve water, coastal groundwater levels remain too low to protect against seawater intrusion for Soquel Creek Water District
  

Both the City of Santa Cruz and SqCWD evaluated their water needs and available sources and determined that a new water source  is a necessary component of an overall water plan to meet the demand for water in the community.  

Numerous studies have consistently confirmed that we must also diversity our water portfolios by developing a new source of supply.  A thorough examination of all factors has led our two agencies to evaluate desalination as the most feasible option to provide water during drought conditions, to limit groundwater pumping and to prevent seawater intrusion.  In conjunction with conservation and curtailment, desalination would help supplement existing water supplies. 

Proposed Water Portfolio for the City of Santa Cruz (Normal/Non-Drought and Drought Conditions)

 

Proposed Water Portfolio for the Soquel Creek Water District
 (Normal/Non-Drought and Drought Conditions)

For a glossary of the terms used in the pie charts, please click here.

For more information, click here.

Benefits of Desalination

• Provides needed water supply during droughts

• Protects underground water aquifers from seawater intrusion

• Provides reliable and flexible source of water

• Protects public health, safety and the economy