2025 Consumer Confidence Report Confirms High Quality of Zone 7 Water

LIVERMORE – Zone 7 Water Agency has released its 2025 Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), providing Tri-Valley residents and businesses with detailed information about the quality of their drinking water and the Agency’s ongoing efforts to protect public health through monitoring, treatment, and infrastructure investments.

The annual report confirms that all drinking water supplied by Zone 7 met or performed better than state and federal drinking water standards in 2025. The report also highlights several major initiatives underway to proactively protect water quality, strengthen water supply
reliability, and prepare for emerging water quality challenges through continued investments in monitoring, treatment, and infrastructure.

“Our highest priority is protecting public health and delivering safe, reliable water to the communities we serve,” said Zone 7 General Manager Valerie Pryor. “This year’s Consumer Confidence Report reflects the investments we have made in monitoring, testing, treatment,
and infrastructure to ensure our water continues to meet or exceed state and federal drinking water standards. Through our PFAS Clean initiative and other proactive water quality programs, we are continuing to address emerging challenges while maintaining the high-quality drinking water our customers expect.”

The latest report on Tri-Valley water quality is now available online, allowing residents to dive deep into the details of their local water—from its sources and rigorous monitoring to safety, testing, and results—presented with easy-to-understand graphs and infographics.
The Annual Consumer Confidence Report is available to download through the Zone 7 website at zone7waterca.gov/water-quality.

Highlights from the 2025 Consumer Confidence Report include:

• PFAS Clean Water — The report highlights Zone 7’s ongoing PFAS Clean initiative, which combines extensive monitoring, advanced treatment technology, and strategic infrastructure investments to address PFAS in local groundwater.
• Expanding PFAS Treatment Facilities — Following the successful implementation of PFAS treatment at the Stoneridge and Chain of Lakes wellfields, design is underway for a third PFAS treatment facility at the Mocho Wellfield. Together, these projects represent
  Zone 7’s long-term commitment to protecting groundwater resources and maintaining water supply reliability.
• Ongoing Water Quality Monitoring — Zone 7 conducts thousands of water quality tests each year throughout its treatment, storage, and distribution systems to ensure compliance with state and federal drinking water regulations and to identify potential issues before they affect customers.
• Investment in Water System Reliability — In addition to water quality programs, Zone 7 continues investing in critical infrastructure, treatment facilities, groundwater management, and water supply projects that help ensure a safe and reliable water supply for current and future generations.
• Preparing for Future Chromium-6 Regulations — Zone 7 continues evaluating treatment technologies and planning future infrastructure improvements to address potential chromium-6 regulatory requirements. These efforts reflect the Agency’s proactive approach to protecting water quality and ensuring long-term compliance with evolving drinking water standards.

Consumer Confidence Reports are required annually by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California State Water Resources Control Board. The reports provide customers with information about drinking water sources, testing results, regulatory standards, and water quality programs.

Additional questions on water quality may be directed to the Zone 7 water quality team at waterquality@zone7water.com or 925-454-5748.

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About Zone 7 Water

Zone 7 Water Agency is one of the 10 active zones of the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. The District was established by the State Legislature in October 1949 to solve problems of flooding, drainage, channel erosion and water supply and conservation in Alameda County. In 1957, by popular vote, Zone 7 became a special district governed by a seven-member board of directors. Along with flood protection, Zone 7 supplies water to all of eastern Alameda County and a population of over a quarter million residents. Treated water is sold wholesale to local retailers, including the cities of Livermore and Pleasanton, the Dublin San Ramon Services District, and the California Water Service Company. Zone 7 also distributes untreated water to local agriculture operations and golf courses.

Orange County Grand Jury Report Highlights OCWD’s PFAS Response

A recently released Orange County Grand Jury report, “PFAS and Public Awareness: A Closer Look at Orange County Drinking Water,” recognized the Orange County Water District’s (OCWD) proactive response to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including regional efforts to restore impacted groundwater wells, construct treatment facilities, secure funding, and educate the public.

OCWD manages the Orange County Groundwater Basin, which provides approximately 85% of the drinking water supply for 2.5 million people in north and central Orange County. Following the detection of PFAS in portions of the basin (measured in parts per trillion), 106 groundwater wells were taken out of service. Since 2019, OCWD and its local cities and retail water districts have worked to restore groundwater production, returning 53 wells to service through the construction of PFAS treatment facilities.

“OCWD has taken a leadership role in responding to PFAS to protect Orange County’s water supply and minimize impacts to ratepayers,” said Board President Denis R. Bilodeau, P.E. “The District has made significant progress in restoring wells by developing one of the most advanced PFAS treatment programs in the world.”

The Grand Jury commended OCWD for securing diversified funding sources to support timely treatment facility construction and cited the District’s collaborative cost-sharing approach with its member agencies as a model for how thoughtful collaboration can enhance efficiency and long‑term public benefit. To date, OCWD has secured approximately $283 million through state and federal grants, legal settlements with chemical manufacturers, and other funding sources to help offset treatment costs and reduce impacts to ratepayers.

Addressing PFAS in Orange County is estimated to cost approximately $1.8 billion over the next 30 years. OCWD remains committed to working with local water providers to restore the remaining impacted wells, evaluate emerging PFAS treatment technologies, and protect the long-term reliability of the groundwater basin.

“We appreciate the Grand Jury’s recognition of the work being done by OCWD and our local water providers,” added Bilodeau. “While there is still more work ahead, the progress made so far demonstrates what can be accomplished through regional collaboration and a shared commitment to protecting Orange County’s water supply.”

For more information about OCWD’s PFAS treatment program, visit pfas.ocwd.com.

WRD and City of Torrance Break Ground on Groundwater Expansion Project

TORRANCE – The Water Replenishment District (WRD) and the City of Torrance celebrated a major milestone this week with a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Torrance Groundwater Desalter Expansion Project (TGDEP). The event brought together elected officials, community leaders, and funding partners to mark the next phase of a transformative effort to convert brackish groundwater into a reliable local drinking water supply for the South Bay.

As a key part of WRD’s Brackish Groundwater Reclamation Program (BGRP), the project expands the Robert W. Goldsworthy Desalter and increases options for sustainable groundwater replenishment within the West Coast Basin. Upon project completion, the TGDEP will purify up to 7,100 acre-feet, or 2.3 billion gallons, of high-quality drinking water each year, contributing a significant portion of the municipal supply for the South Bay residents.

“Since 2001, the Torrance Groundwater Desalter has proven that brackish groundwater can be transformed into potable water for Torrance residents,” said WRD Director Rob Katherman. “Today, we celebrate the next phase of our Brackish Groundwater Reclamation Program and reclaim additional portions of the 14-square-mile plume that remains in the basin.”

The BGRP exemplifies the power of regional collaboration and aims to reduce Southern Los Angeles County’s reliance on imported water by converting the 14-square-mile brackish groundwater plume into a reliable drinking water source and creating additional groundwater storage capacity. The project strengthens regional water sustainability while advancing long-term groundwater reliability. WRD owns the facility, and the City of Torrance operates it, creating a partnership that benefits communities throughout the South Bay.

“With this expansion, the facility will nearly double its capacity while helping address longstanding groundwater challenges in the South Bay,” said Torrance Mayor George Chen. “Today, we break ground, but more importantly, we invest in a stronger and more secure future for the South Bay.”

“The Torrance Groundwater Desalter Expansion Project is one of the most significant water infrastructure investments currently underway in Southern Los Angeles County and is WRD’s largest capital project to date,” said WRD General Manager Stephan Tucker. “We are grateful for the support of our state and federal funding partners who recognize the importance of local water supply development, climate resilience, and long-term water security.”

To date, WRD staff has secured over $82 million in grants and low interest loans to fund this project with significant investments from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund (administered by the California State Water Resources Control Board), U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act WaterSMART Desalination Projects, California Department of Water Resources’ Prop 1 Water Desalination Grant, and the Bonneville Environmental Foundation’s Business for Water Stewardship Program.

“Today’s milestone advances our broader WIN 4 ALL initiative to strengthen regional water reliability through locally sustainable water supplies while creating additional groundwater storage capacity for future generations,” shared WRD Board President Sergio Calderon.

“McCarthy and Jacobs are proud to support the City of Torrance in expanding the Torrance Groundwater Desalter, nearly doubling the facility’s capacity and eliminating the community’s dependence on imported drinking water,” said McCarthy Vice President of Operations Sagrado Sparks. “As progressive design-build partners, we are thrilled to help bring this solution to the Torrance community, strengthening the region’s clean drinking water supply and advancing Southern California’s water resiliency efforts.”

“This is how communities get ahead of water challenges. Breaking ground on the Torrance Groundwater Desalter Expansion puts that vision into action. Through an advanced, collaborative delivery model, we’re advancing how California communities secure local, reliable water,” said Jacobs Executive Vice President Tom Meinhart.

Construction is well underway, and the facility is expected to be commissioned in 2029. Photos and additional media assets from the groundbreaking of the Torrance Groundwater Desalter Expansion Project are available for download here: Media Folder.

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The Water Replenishment District of Southern California is the regional groundwater management agency that protects and preserves the quantity and quality of groundwater for two of the most utilized urban basins in the State of California. The service area is home to over ten percent of California’s population residing in 43 cities in southern Los Angeles County. WRD is governed by a publicly elected Board of Directors, which includes Joy Langford, Rob Katherman, John D. S. Allen, Sergio Calderon, and Vera Robles-DeWitt.

MWA Breaks Ground on West Victorville Groundwater Banking Pilot Project

VICTORVILLE — Mojave Water Agency (MWA) today officially broke ground on the West Victorville Groundwater Banking Pilot Test Project, launching construction on one of the region’s most significant water infrastructure investments in recent memory. The ceremony, held near 11987 Duncan Road in Victorville, drew Agency leadership, elected officials, community stakeholders, and project partners to mark the beginning of a project designed to dramatically expand groundwater recharge capacity across the Alto Subarea of the Mojave Groundwater Basin.

The 40-acre facility will be capable of adding an estimated 12,000 to 18,000 acre-feet per year of off-river recharge capacity. This is a transformational increase that will allow MWA to capture imported State Water Project supplies and store that water underground during periods of abundance, creating a strategic reserve for use during future droughts and dry cycles.

Unlike conventional recharge projects, the West Victorville facility is expressly designed as a pilot groundwater banking operation. Data collected throughout its operation will inform MWA’s understanding of recharge rates, aquifer response, groundwater quality, and recovery potential — knowledge that will help shape future water banking efforts across the entire region.

“This project represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring a reliable water future for the High Desert,” said Marina West, President of the Mojave Water Agency Board of Directors. “Groundwater banking allows us to make the most of available water supplies today while preparing responsibly for the challenges of tomorrow.”

The project is supported by a $12.87 million grant from the California Department of Water Resources through the Urban and Multi-Benefit Drought Relief Program. Construction was awarded to Ames Construction, with a contract not to exceed approximately $17.9 million. All work is required to be completed by December 31, 2026.

For Victorville, the project carries particular significance. As one of the High Desert’s fastest-growing communities, the city depends on a reliable water supply to support housing development, business investment, and continued economic expansion. By replenishing the underground aquifers that residents and businesses draw from every day, the West Victorville project helps ensure that Victorville’s water supply keeps pace with its growth, and its future.

The groundbreaking reflects a strong regional partnership among Mojave Water Agency, the California Department of Water Resources, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, engineering professionals, contractors, and local elected officials, a coalition united around the shared goal of long-term water security for the communities of the Mojave Desert.

Mojave Water Agency, established in 1960, plays a vital role in securing reliable water supplies for the High Desert region. As one of 29 State Water Project contractors, the Agency manages water resources across a 4,900-square-mile service area, promoting long-term sustainability and stewardship. For more information, visit www.mojavewater.org or follow us on social media @mojavewater.

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National Water Groups Issue Cybersecurity Warning

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Water Information Sharing and Analysis Center and the American Water Works Association recently circulated a cybersecurity warning about the risk of revealing key operational data.

The warning noted that an AI service provider used a public records request to access data on water treatment flow rates, energy use, reservoir elevations and water chemistry. The warning also included a recommendation for water utilities to review their public disclosure requirements.

Cyberattacks against public water systems that diligently work to ensure a clean, safe water supply are increasing. Cyber threats continue to evolve, and water agencies remain critical infrastructure targets.

As a reminder, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has multiple resources for water utilities to ensure their cybersecurity measures are current and to maintain strong cybersecurity practices.

The EPA Drinking Water Data and Tools database includes dozens of data analysis tools open to the public. The EPA also has a list of informational webinars and offers a free cybersecurity assessment for drinking water and wastewater utilities to evaluate cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Additionally, ACWA conducted a webinar with the EPA that highlighted threats facing the water sector, best practices for risk management, available federal resources, and actionable steps utilities can take to enhance their cyber resilience.

June 2026 Priority Issues Update Now Available

The June 2026 Priority Issues Update is now available online to members.

The update is a summary of the latest developments on issues of interest to ACWA members. This issue contains information on ACWA’s sponsored bills, Vision Toolkit, federal funding and more.

The new and previous Priority Issues Updates can be found here.

Congressmember Friedman Requests Federal Funding for PFAS Treatment

LA CRESCENTA – The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies has advanced approximately $747,000 in a federal funding request from Congressmember Laura Friedman for Crescenta Valley Water District (CVWD) to support critical PFAS treatment infrastructure in partnership with Glendale Water & Power (GWP).

The proposed funding aims to tackle per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of manufactured chemicals that pose water quality concerns across the nation. The project will support the development and implementation of treatment solutions designed to remove PFAS from drinking water supplies using the latest available treatment media and techniques, ensuring continued delivery of safe, reliable water to customers of La Crescenta-Montrose and City of Glendale.

“This funding represents an important step toward addressing emerging water quality challenges and protecting the public health of our customers,” said CVWD General Manager James Lee. “We appreciate the support of Congressmember Friedman and the House Subcommittee for recognizing the importance of investing in water infrastructure and technology that benefits our communities.”

The funding request will now advance to the full House Committee on Appropriations for consideration as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 federal appropriations process.

PFAS have been widely used in industrial and consumer products for decades and are now recognized as contaminants of concern throughout the United States. Water agencies in California and across the nation are working to meet evolving regulatory requirements and implement treatment technologies to address these compounds. CVWD recently completed a pilot study of advanced PFAS treatment technology, with full implementation expected to require a multi-million-dollar investment.

“Partnerships at the local, regional, and federal levels are essential as water suppliers work to meet increasingly complex water quality standards,” said Glendale Water and Power Assistant General Manager Chisom Obegolu. “This proposed funding will help advance solutions that protect drinking water supplies while reducing costs for ratepayers.”

Imported Water Expands Groundwater Storage Across the Region

BEAUMONT – San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) is moving quickly to maximize the Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) recent increase in the 2026 State Water Project (SWP) allocation to 45 percent, strengthening local water supplies and groundwater recharge efforts throughout the Pass area.

“This allocation increase is an opportunity to act, not wait,” said SGPWA Board President Robert Ybarra. “Every acre-foot we can recharge helps protect the communities we serve. SGPWA is focused on making the most of every available drop of water.”

The increased allocation, combined with existing supplies and carryover water, brings SGPWA’s total water supply portfolio to 17,035 acre-feet. That additional water will be used strategically to support groundwater recharge, improve regional water security, and prepare local communities for future dry conditions.

As the region’s State Water Project contractor, SGPWA imports water 500 miles from the Northern Sierras and delivers it to local water retailers throughout the Pass area. Those deliveries help reduce pressure on groundwater basins while providing a dependable supply for residents, businesses, and agriculture.

SGPWA is increasing efforts to put available water into the ground now, storing it for future use when supplies are more limited. Some of that recharge will take place through facilities operated by Beaumont-Cherry Valley Water District, highlighting how regional partnerships can stretch every available water resource.

“When we work together, the Pass area benefits,” said Beaumont-Cherry Valley Water District General Manager Dan Jaggers. “This partnership with SGPWA allows us to recharge more water locally and improve water reliability across the region.”

The DWR increased the SWP allocation from 30 percent to 45 percent following improved late-season precipitation and strong reservoir conditions in Northern California. Through careful water management, SGPWA continues to build resilience against future shortages and ensure the region is prepared for whatever the next water year brings.

Learn more about SGPWA’s water portfolio and groundwater advocacy at sgpwa.com.

PWD Hosting H2GO 5K at Lake Palmdale, ABC7 Reporter Leo Stallworth to Emcee

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The Gubernatorial Field is Set, Now is the Time to Talk About Water

SACRAMENTO – Ernie Avila, President of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), issued the following statement in response to Tuesday’s primary election results. 

“Between now and the November election, the candidates for California’s governor have an opportunity to champion a nonpartisan issue that unites every resident, business and community – water.  Water transcends political lines, offering a shared purpose for all 40 million Californians who depend on a safe, reliable water supply to thrive by facilitating new housing, stabilizing grocery prices for families, and strengthening our communities against wildfires. 

“ACWA’s Vision for Our Water Future was designed specifically for this moment – to provide a clear and actionable framework to make California’s water supply more reliable and affordable. It’s not a wish list. It’s a roadmap designed to ensure the next administration’s long-term success.  

“The top gubernatorial candidates must understand and lead on this nonpartisan issue. ACWA stands ready to partner with these future state leaders to turn this forward-looking vision into reality.”