May 7, 2021
Hello,
With all of our efforts to withstand the Pandemic, it’s easy to overlook the fact we are in the midst of another drought. 2020 was the 4th driest year on record! American Canyon’s water supply situation is in a precarious position because the State will only supply 5% of our contracted amount. Fortunately, we have identified enough supplies to last through the end of 2021. Still, next year could be an even more significant challenge if we don’t take steps now to reduce demand.
Since the last drought (2013-2015), the City made a substantial effort to tighten things up. Back then, 25% of our water production went unbilled; now, we only lose about 6% (which puts us in the 10% of all utilities nationwide). In the aftermath of the last drought, our customers reduced demand by almost 30%. Since then, we’ve only experienced a slight rebound.
Our goal this time around is a 15% reduction - we have new tools and need your help! Here’s how you can be smart and thoughtful with your water use:
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Sign up for the customer portal and watch your account. If it shows activity in the middle of the night (when everyone is sleeping), that means you have a leaky toilet or faucet. Check your plumbing and repair any issues.
- Better yet, get paid to replace your old toilet with a new low-flow toilet (Toilet Rebate Program).
- Limit watering on turf to 2 days per week, no more than 2 minutes per zone. If you do schedule this between 3am and 5am, you can take advantage of atmospheric condensation to enhance the watering effect.
- Better yet, get paid to replace that thirsty turf with beautiful, native drought-tolerant landscaping (Cash for Grass Program).
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Review the City’s webpage for the latest drought information.
Last year, we used 163 million gallons of recycled water. As one near-term solution, the City is taking steps to double that amount over the next 12 to 18 months. This includes new recycled water projects for Community Park I, Community Park II, Pelleria Park, and other locations. Every time we convert a user to recycled water, we create a permanent new supply because the potable water they were using becomes available for drinking elsewhere. State Senator Dodd and others are pushing legislation that would allow us to complete those projects this year.
As a long-term solution, American Canyon is participating in the Sites Reservoir Project. The Project will provide a much reliable source of water than currently available from the State. Construction is slated to begin in 2024, and water is expected to become available by the end of this decade. But for now, water conservation must remain a way of life.
To find out where our water comes from, check out our Source to Tap Video here. We will all need to work together to be water smart and use every drop we have as wisely as possible.
Take care,
Jason Holley
City Manager
Still Looking to Get Vaccinated?
As a member of the CDC's Federal Pharmacy Partnership program, many local pharmacies are offering free COVID-19 vaccines. Right here, in American Canyon, there are three options for you! Visit the sites below to book your appointment today!
American Rescue Plan
Earlier this week, Congressman Mike Thompson presented Mayor Leon Garcia a ceremonial check to represent funding the City of American Canyon is slated to receive as part of the American Rescue Plan Act.
The American Rescue Plan will provide needed relief to state, local, and Tribal governments to enable them to continue to support the public health response and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable economic recovery. To learn more about the American Rescue Plan Act, visit https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/state-and-local-fiscal-recovery-fund.
When the United States Treasury releases the final guidelines related to this funding, the City will provide additional updates.
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