Where Does EBMUD Get Its Water?

EBMUD, the East Bay Municipal Utility District, is responsible for providing clean water to over 1.4 million people in the East Bay area of California. EBMUD’s water comes from a variety of sources, including the Mokelumne River, the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, and local reservoirs. In this article, we will explore the various sources of EBMUD’s water and how they are used to meet the water needs of the East Bay region.

Mokelumne River: A Vital Water Source

The Mokelumne River is the primary source of water for EBMUD. It originates in the Sierra Nevada mountains and flows through San Joaquin County before emptying into the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. EBMUD has two reservoirs on the Mokelumne River: Pardee Reservoir and Camanche Reservoir. These reservoirs store water that is released during dry periods to meet the water needs of the East Bay region.

Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta: A Diverse Water Source

The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is a vast network of rivers, channels, and islands located in Northern California. The delta is a crucial water source for EBMUD and other water agencies in the state. EBMUD diverts water from the delta through a series of canals and pipelines to its water treatment plants. The delta water is then treated and distributed to customers in the East Bay region.

Local Reservoirs: Storing Water for the Future

EBMUD also relies on local reservoirs to store water for the East Bay region. These reservoirs include San Pablo Reservoir, Chabot Reservoir, and Briones Reservoir. These reservoirs collect water from local watersheds and store it for use during dry periods. The stored water is released into the EBMUD water distribution system as needed to meet the water demands of the region.

Using Recycled Water Wisely

In addition to its traditional water sources, EBMUD is also committed to using recycled water whenever possible. Recycled water is wastewater that has been treated and cleaned to meet specific standards. EBMUD uses recycled water for irrigation, industrial purposes, and groundwater recharge. By using recycled water, EBMUD helps to reduce the demand for potable water and protect the environment.

Conserving Water for a Sustainable Future

EBMUD is actively engaged in water conservation efforts to ensure a sustainable water supply for the East Bay region. The agency offers a variety of programs and resources to help customers reduce their water use. These programs include rebates for water-efficient appliances, free water audits, and educational programs for schools and businesses. By working together, EBMUD and its customers can conserve water and protect this precious resource for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the primary source of water for EBMUD?
   The Mokelumne River is the primary source of water for EBMUD.

2. How does EBMUD use water from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta?
   EBMUD diverts water from the delta through a series of canals and pipelines to its water treatment plants. The delta water is then treated and distributed to customers in the East Bay region.

3. What are some of the local reservoirs that EBMUD uses to store water?
   EBMUD uses local reservoirs such as San Pablo Reservoir, Chabot Reservoir, and Briones Reservoir to store water for the East Bay region.

4. How does EBMUD use recycled water?
   EBMUD uses recycled water for irrigation, industrial purposes, and groundwater recharge.

5. What are some of the ways that EBMUD promotes water conservation?
   EBMUD offers a variety of programs and resources to help customers reduce their water use, such as rebates for water-efficient appliances, free water audits, and educational programs for schools and businesses.