Innovative Project Enhances Regional Water Quality and Safety

BEAUMONT - In June 2024, San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) launched an advanced algae abatement project in collaboration with EarthTec to address harmful algal blooms (HABs) within the State Water Project (SWP) conveyance system. This initiative aims to safeguard clean, quality water for the community.

Close monitoring of the conveyance system over multiple months revealed increased HABs of concern, believed to be exacerbated by high nutrient concentrations, intense sunlight, warm water, and prolonged droughts. These conditions create an ideal environment for harmful blue-green algae that produce cyanotoxins and pose significant health risks to humans and animals.

SGPWA worked with Beaumont Cherry Valley Water District (BCVWD) to install more than $19,000 worth of equipment at the Mountain View Turnout. This included a custom Conex box for $6,600, a 275-gallon EarthTec tote for $5,225, Carson manhole covers for $5,043, new electrical conduits and wiring for $1,480, and safety supplies and signage totaling $688. Through this strategic partnership, SGPWA was able to significantly reduce the overall cost of the project by utilizing external support. BCVWD staff provided labor hours, assisted in operating heavy equipment, and helped cover other incidental expenses, ultimately saving SGPWA's ratepayers thousands of dollars in additional expenses.

"When we identify a challenge, we take action immediately. By leveraging state-of-the-art solutions like EarthTec, we are protecting and enhancing water quality, protecting public health, and paving the way for long-term ecological resilience," said SGPWA Board President Mickey Valdivia. "This project demonstrates our dedication to forward thinking and securing a sustainable water future for our community."

The active ingredient in EarthTec, cupric ion (Cu2+), is a highly effective form of copper that controls algae and bacteria and significantly enhances overall water quality. Following the EarthTec system installation, SGPWA will actively collect data and monitor this project to keep the community informed and involved in its development.

SGPWA is proud to have the support and techniques needed for a swift and efficient response to HABs. This project is one of several initiatives that SGPWA is actively involved in to protect our water supply and best serve the community. Through proactive stewardship and inventive solutions, the Agency continues to prioritize the well-being and sustainability of our region.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in community discussions. For more information, visit www.sgpwa.com.

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About San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency

Formed in 1961, SGPWA is a State Water Contractor that serves a 225-square-mile area of western Riverside County. The service area includes the cities of Calimesa, Beaumont, and Banning, and the communities of Cherry Valley, Cabazon, and the Banning Bench. In addition to importing State Water Project (SWP) water from Northern California to augment local groundwater sources, the Agency builds local system infrastructure, participates in water transfers, partners in statewide water projects and collaborates on regional water reliability and conservation efforts.

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