Construction Begins on Recycled Water Reservoir

The Sonoma County Water Agency, is expanding their water storage fleet with a 37 million gallon tank which will hold recycled water.

Construction on the new "Reservoir 5" tank began in mid-August, at a location adjacent to the Sonoma Valley County Sanitation District treatment plant at 22675 8th Street East. 

The new reservoir is necessary, say  to enhance the District’s ability to utilize recycled water for irrigation purposes. 

• Reduce the discharge of treated wastewater into Schell Slough and San Pablo Bay
• Provide recycled water in compliance with federal and state regulations
• Offset peak water demand in Sonoma Valley
• Offset groundwater use for potable or agricultural purposes that may be stressing aquifer conditions in some areas of Sonoma Valley

Reservoir 5 will cost $2.3 million and is being financed by $600,000 in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funding through the North Bay Water Reuse Authority. 

“Reservoir 5 is a prime example of how a project can protect our environment, ensure future water supply and support our local economy," said City of Sonoma Mayor Laurie Gallian. "This is a win-win project and the ARRA funding is the icing on top of the cake.”

The Authority includes five local agencies in the North San Pablo Bay region, including the Water Agency, formed to put recycled water to its broadest and most beneficial use.  The remaining $1.3 million is financed through the District’s Capital Improvement Plan.

Construction activities began earlier this month and Reservoir 5 is slated for completion in December 2011. 

“With dwindling water supplies in California, the only reliable solution is increased conservation and efficiency, and that includes recycling and storing wastewater,” Rep. Lynn Woolsey said. 

“There is a growing demand for recycled water in Sonoma Valley," said District Board Member and Water Agency Director Valerie Brown. Recycled water ensures our agricultural industry has a sustainable water supply for irrigation purposes for the future.  Recycled water is a valuable resource and Reservoir 5 is an investment for our future water resources, environment and economy. ” 

During the dry weather months of May through October, the District currently provides recycled water to users including vineyards, dairies, and pasturelands.  The existing users are located in the southern end of Sonoma Valley, southeast of Schellville in the Carneros region. 

The District currently has four recycled water reservoirs that store recycled water until it can be used for irrigation.