National growth continues to explode in the western part of the United States.  Rural water expansion is often a financial challenge because of limited resources and personnel.  Yet, rural water systems tend to jump ahead of the pack when faced with environmental issues.  This is exactly the case with the Hidden Valley Lake Community Services District located near Clear Lake, California. 

Hidden Valley Lake serves a growing community of 6,000 people.  The district is very proactive in dealing with environmental issues even in the midst of rapid growth.  Three key programs: groundwater protection, outreach, and water conservation demonstrate the commitment by HVLCSD to the environment. 

One of the Districts leading projects is the delivery of groundwater to Putah Creek to help sustain wildlife, fish and other aquatic species during California’s hot, dry summer months.  This enhancement program uses a portion of the district’s water supply to support the biological resources along the creek.  Fresh water from Hidden Valley Lake’s aquifer is used to support a year-round fishery, which includes rainbow trout, brown trout, small mouth bass, sunfish and catfish.  Terrestrial habitat along the creek also benefits from the program.  The fresh water marshes of the creek, grasses and trees in the area provide habitat for over 40 species of birds.

The groundwater program came into existence from the District’s reliance on Putah Creek as the municipal water supply for its service area.  Established in accordance California’s Environmental Quality Act, the program supports the environment by providing a reliable water supply for the creek’s downstream eco-system each summer. 

The District worked with the United States Department of Interior for the installation of the gauging station.  Eleven dedicated monitoring wells provide data used to assess seasonal groundwater levels in the basin.  This upbeat groundwater program insures that environmental conditions are monitored and maintained so the area water supply mimics the historic surface flow conditions of the creek. 

Outreach efforts through the District’s website, newsletter and statement stuffers; provide Hidden Valley Lake residents with useful tips and information on conservation, rebate programs and other water issues. 

Water conservation efforts provide free conservation kits for homes built prior to 1992.  A list of drought tolerant plants and indoor/outdoor water tips are provided to District members.  Hidden Valley Lake focuses on grassroots efforts starting with elementary school education and continuing with community involvement in water awareness events. 

The aggressive efforts for groundwater preservation, outreach and water conservation help to preserve the Hidden Valley Lake environment for customers and future generations.  HVLCSD is a just one example of rural water’s commitment to a safe and healthy environment. 

Hidden Valley Lake is a member of the California Rural Water Association and the National Rural Water Association.  Historically, rural water trains over 40,000 community officials and provides over 100,000 onsite visits each year.
 

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