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Is our drinking water safe?
Yes. EVMWD is doing its part to consistently meet all state and federal water quality standards. Each year a report on drinking water quality is sent to customers to keep them informed about drinking water issues.

How much will the entire project cost?

The costs vary depending on what scope the project takes. There are basically three options;

1.  The northern line from LEAPS to SCE’s 500 kV line to support only the hydro Plant - $40 million

2.  The southern line from LEAPS to SDG&E’s 230 kV line to support only the Hydro Plant - $50 million

3.  The transmission line linking the SCE line with the SDG&E line and supporting the LEAPS Project - $150 million The plant itself will cost about $400 million to build. Please note that this represents the cost to build transmission lines that only support the movement of 500 Mw of power. If these lines were meant to be an alternative to the Rainbow transmission line, they would be more costly.

Will the transmission lines be built even if the power plant is not?
Currently the licensing process underway deals only with both the hydro plant and the transmission lines used to connect that plant to the electric grid. There has been discussion at the EVMWD Board, and at the California ISO, of having this transmission route be a substitute for the SDG&E Rainbow Transmission Line project in Temecula. The Oversight Committee has asked the EVMWD Board to to respond to the potential to build the line only. There has been no official response as yet from EVMWD.

Where will the lines be located?
At this time the project envisions running lines from existing lines in Temescal Canyon south of Horsethief Canyon, northwest of Lake Elsinore and Cleveland Ridge, into the Cleveland National Forest, along the ridgeline of the Elsinore Mountains to Rancho Capsitrano, then south just west of La Cresta and Tenaja to hook into a current line running from Camp Pendleton. The exact location of the lines and poles has not yet been determined.

Why can’t the lines be buried or run along Interstate 15?
CalTrans prohibits power lines from running in their easements. As for burying the lines, putting such high-capacity lines underground is not something that has ever been done in the United States. However, it is not inconceivable that a portion of the lines could be buried.

Who is building this project, and how will this project be financed?
The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District holds the preliminary permit for the project. They are working with The Nevada Hydro Company (a privately held firm) to license and permit the project. Currently Nevada Hydro and EVMWD are looking for a private financial backer for the project. To date, none has been found. It is also a possibility that EVMWD could issue bonds to self-finance the project. However, no meaningful discussions on that method of financing have occurred at the EVMWD Board.

Will eminent domain be used to take private property for any part of this project?
It is possible that a small amount of private land will have to be taken to complete the project. However, EVMWD and Nevada Hydro have said they wish to avoid doing so wherever possible.

What is the United States Forest Service’s view of the project?
The Forest Service has expressed significant concerns about the impact the project will have on “visual resources.” The Forest Service has a significant voice in the approval process.

Why are some people saying they are not being properly notified about the project?
It is the determination of the applicant that all federal notification requirements have been met. Direct mail notification is not required at the current stage of the project, only at the licensing, or “2nd Stage” of the process. This is in accordance with the Federal Powers Act, Section 18CFR4.32 through 4.38.

Although it is not the responsibility of the Oversight Committee to provide legal notification discussed above, the Committee has decided that it would be prudent for O’Reilly Public Relations to begin mailing meeting notices to everyone who has attended a past meeting and/or submitted a question on the project.

Is this project economically viable?
It is believed so. The plan would buy power late at night, when it is very cheap, to turn its turbines to pump the lake water up the side of the mountain. During the day, when power is more expensive, the water would be released to flow back into Lake Elsinore and generate power. The project makes money on the cost differential between day and night power costs. In addition, ancillary services such as load following and reactive power (grid stabilization services) will provide additional revenues for the project.

How will this project impact Lake Elsinore?
There are many potential impacts, both beneficial and less beneficial. For example, the movement of the water to and from the mountaintop reservoirs will cause the lake level to drop by about a foot and shoreline to contract by about 15-20 feet. Whether or not the movement of the water will affect the lake’s water quality is not yet clear.

On the positive side, the operators of the hydro plant will provide funds to EVMWD to reimburse their past expenses related to the project, as well as ongoing funds to assist in lake management. These funds could be used for the purchase of make up water for the lake and or for other lake improvements.

Where will the powerhouses be located?
There are three potential sites. One site is next to the Ortega Highway in the field behind the Ortega Oaks market. Currently hang gliders use the site as a landing zone. If the Decker Canyon reservoir site is chosen, that is where the powerhouse will be located.

The other two sites are south of the Ortega Highway/Grand Avenue intersection, the first being next to the Santa Rosa Apartments and Butterfield Elementary School and the second about five blocks further south. If Morrell Canyon is chosen as the reservoir site the powerhouse would be located at one of these two sites, most likely the one closer to Butterfield.

What is “peaking power”?
Peaking power is the name of electricity that is generated demand times, such as summer afternoons. The hydroelectric generate electricity to be sold during that time.

Are electro-magenetic fields dangerous for people?
This has been the subject of government research and study for over 25 years. Most scientific studies completed prior to 1995, suggest that EMFs generated by transmission lines pose little threat to humans or animals.

However, a new study recently completed by the California Department of Health states that the risk linked between health effects and the zones surrounding transmission lines could be stronger than previously thought. It will be part of the studies planned by the project to investigate the results of this and any new EMF studies, and evaluate the impacts of the project on area residents and wildlife.

If the transmission lines are built, how will they connect to the rest of the grid?
They will hook up to the grid in Temescal Canyon and Camp Pendleton. An “interconnect” study is currently underway to determine the exact details of how the connection would be made and if existing lines and substations would need to be improved to handle the load. A smaller line will also connect to the grid at a local Lake Elsinore substation.

How would the lines and reservoirs affect such popular air-sports as hanggliding?
The impact on activities like hang-gliding has been a significant topic of debate and worry. The Citizen’s Oversight Committee, and others, have requested that a study of how best to protect the sport be done as part of the federal approval process.

What are the potential community benefits?
The potential exists for a number of benefits, from making the lake “pay for itself” by the project’s purchase of water to offset evaporation, to expanded park facilities. Any improvement to the stability of lake levels will benefit the recreation and tourist business in the area. The initial impact of such a large expenditure of construction money in the Elsinore Valley could be of significant economic benefit as well.

Would having a power plant in our valley mean we could avoid blackouts or rate hikes?
Not exactly. Most of the power generated by this power plant would go directly into a high voltage statewide transmission grid controlled by the California ISO, which then routes the power where it is needed. Some power could be routed into the local SCE distribution grid at 115v.

Rolling blackouts are controlled and directed by the CA ISO (not local
authorities) and are meant to reduce statewide power demand during power shortages. However, the plant will increase the stability of the local electric grid, which decreases the likelihood of inadvertent blackouts. The increased electric supply to the entire state will help keep overall statewide prices lower. That could be of significant benefit for Elsinore Valley.

The only way to control the distribution of this power locally would be to have a “municipal” electric district formed in the area, and have the power plant connect directly to that locally owned and controlled distribution electric grid.

Is this project being touted as a potential competitor to SDG&E’s Valley-
Rainbow Interconnect power line proposed for building through Temecula and Murrieta?
Originally it was not proposed to serve that function. However, it clearly could take the place of the VRI.

What studies have been or will be conducted as part of the approval process?
There are dozens of studies either completed, underway now, or planned for. The topics of the studies range from environmental impact to economic affect to recreation needs.

What is the FERC process?
There are three ways in which the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission could approve this project. One is through the standard multi-stage process that usually takes at least three years; another is through the “Alternative Licensing Procedure,” which includes everything (studies, public input, etc.) in the regular process but telescopes the timeline involved; a third is through the obtaining of waivers for certain aspects of the process.

Why does my tap water sometimes appear cloudy?
In areas served by wells, pumping can trap tiny air bubbles that temporarily cause water to appear cloudy. Tap water will clear if left to stand until the air bubbles are gone. Cloudy water is safe to drink. For more information, visit the water quality section of the website.

Where does our drinking water come from?
EVMWD’s water supply is a blend of local groundwater, surface water from Canyon Lake reservoir and imported water from the Colorado River Aqueduct and the State Water Project. On average, nearly half our water supply is imported.  Refer to the Water Sources section of the website for more information

Who regulates drinking water quality?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) establishes and enforces national drinking water standards. In California, enforcement of drinking water standards falls under the Department of Health Services, Drinking Water Field Operating Branch. Both agencies set Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for various compounds in water to provide for safe drinking water supplies.

What do the standards mean?
Drinking water standards are based on consuming water every day over a lifetime, without any harmful effects. They also take into account exposure to substances found in the air and in the foods we eat. Our drinking water supply is regularly tested for minerals, inorganic and organic compounds, radioactivity, bacteria, and other substances. Laboratories use state-of-the-art equipment to detect very small amounts of substances in water using the standards as guidelines for safety.

Is fluoride added to our drinking water?
No. Fluoride is naturally occurring in water and soil in varying amounts. Fluoridation of public drinking supplies has been widely shown to prevent tooth decay. New legislation requires water districts to add fluoridation if outside funding sources, other than water rates, are available.

Does the District test for cryptosporidium?
Yes, EVMWD monitors its water supplies and treatment plant for evidence of Cryptosporidium, a microorganism that inhabits lakes and rivers and can resist disinfection. It may cause gastrointestinal illness in humans if steps are not taken to remove it during water treatment. Upgrades to EVMWD’s water filtration system will ensure that Crypto is not a threat to our drinking water. Fortunately, Crypto is uncommon in groundwater, which supplies about half our drinking water. Cryptosporidium has not been detected in EVMWD tap water samples.

How can I improve the taste of my water?
Chill a pitcher of tap water at least two hours to improve taste. Keep a chilled supply in the refrigerator so it will always be ready when you’re thirsty.

Why are there taste differences during the year?
Since our water is blended from different sources, taste, odor and appearance may vary occasionally. The blend between imported and local water varies most in the summer, when demand for imported water is highest. The age and condition of home plumbing can also affect the taste of drinking water.

Will a home treatment device help?
The best reason to install a point-of-use (POU) system is to remove objectionable tastes and odors. Most devices don’t make water more healthful. If you already use a POU system, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s service schedule. A poorly maintained POU system may actually increase the risk of microbial contaminants in drinking water.

I have a fish aquarium, what can I do to ensure that my tap water does not contain chlorine or chloramines, which can be harmful to fish?
Chloramine and chlorine are two of the safest chemicals used to kill bacteria, sometimes detected in water supplies. This valuable water treatment method is safe for humans but can be toxic to fish. Your pet store can recommend proper water treatment to remove chloramine or chlorine from your tap water. People who use blood dialysis equipment must also filter chloramines from their water supply.

The water at my house seems to have a lot of minerals that leave deposits on my appliances and leaves spots on my glassware. What can I do about this?
Imported water sources from the Colorado River contain minerals that contribute to the hardness of the water. If you are considering installing a treatment device to soften the water, please refer to California Health and Safety Code Section 116785 to identify what, if any, restrictions apply.

A recent news story suggested pregnant women should avoid exposure to trihalomethanes in tap water–is this a concern?
There isn’t a simple answer until more research is available. Trihalomethanes (THMs) are formed as a by-product of disinfection when chlorine, used to control disease-causing contaminants in drinking water, reacts with naturally occurring organic matter in the source water. In one new study, pregnant women who drank five or more glasses of tap water at THM levels of 75 parts per billion or higher were found to have a higher risk of miscarriage. The California Department of Health Services conducted the study, and says their results need to be replicated before specific health recommendations can be made. Pregnant women who have questions should consult their physician.

EVMWD’s average for Total Trihalomethanes is below the state and federal MCL of 100 ppb, though sample ranges can vary above and below this limit. EVMWD has reduced THM levels through treatment plant improvements and is studying disinfection alternatives, such as ozone to further reduce THM levels.

Where can I obtain a job application? 
Applications may be obtained from the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District office located at 31315 Chaney Street in Lake Elsinore. To download an application, click on the jobs link.

How do I submit and application?
Completed applications must be received by the Human Resources Department by closing date of the position for which your are applying. Applications are accepted by mail or in the lobby at our main office. 

What are your business hours?
EVMWD’s office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays.

Is a separate application required for each position?
Yes. Each position requires a separate EVMWD application.

Should I attach copies of applicable certifications and a current DMV printout to my application?
The EVMWD application requests that copies of job-related certifications be attached to the original application. Please do not submit documents verifying your legal right to work in the United States or DMV printouts with your application materials.

Does the District have a job line?
Yes, the telephone number is (951) 674-3146. For information on current job openings, dial extension 8851. For updated information on openings that have closed, dial extension 8852.

How do I find out about EVMWD job openings?
Job openings are advertised on the EVMWD Web Site and on the EVMWD Job Line (951) 674-3146 ext. 8851.

How often are job openings advertised?
Job openings are advertised as positions become availanle. There is no set time for advertising job openings.

Do you accept applications when there are no job openings?
No. EVMWD only accepts applications for current job openings. When completing your application, please list the position you are applying for in the "Position Applied For" section.

Are resumes accepted in lieu of an application?
No, a completed EVMWD application is required for each job opening. A resume may be attached to the application if desired.

How long do you keep applications on file?
Once a job closes and the position is filled, the applications are no longer kept on file.

Will I be notified regarding the status of my application?
All applicants will be notified by mail or by phone to schedule an interview. For information on the status of current open positions, please call the job line at (951) 674-3146 extension 8852

How long does the hiring process take?
EVMWD is committed to hiring quality applicants for all of its open positions. The application, screening, interviewing and background investigation process can take 6-8 weeks. Your patience is appreciated.

Why does my tap water occassionally smell like rotten eggs?
A sewer, or "rotten egg" odor, from your tap water could be the result of several problems in your own home, and may not be directly related to the water supply. If you detect the odor in your kitchen faucet, it could be the result of a partially clogged drain or a dirty garbage disposal. The easiest way to verify this is to check another faucet in the house. If the water from the other faucet smells fine, then, more than likely, the bad odor is a result of a dirty garbage disposal. Another common cause for a "rotten egg" odor from house tap water can be associated with your hot water heater. A hot water heater can produce a rotten egg odor from the hot water faucets if it is not set at the proper temperature. To determine if the odor is from the hot water heater, go the a sink closest to the water heater and fill a glass with water from the hot water faucet and a second glass from the cold water faucet and smell them. If the offending odor is detected only from the glass of water taken from the hot water faucet, the problem is most likely originating from the water heater. Flushing the water heater yourself, or contacting a plumber to perform the flushing, and then resetting the water heater to the correct temperature will, in most cases, solve the problem. Sewer gas can also enter your house through a sink drain, floor drain, shower or bathtub drain, if these fixtures are used infrequently and the water in the U-trap connected beneath the drain has dried up. The odor problem can be taken care of by running the faucet for several minutes to flush out the drain and to allow the water in the U-trap to refill. This, in turn, provides a water barrier within the trap that will keep sewer odors from entering your home through the drain.

Why is my tap water occassionally brown or discolored?
Discolored or brown water from your tap can be caused by changes or disturbances in the water distribution main lines. Excessive fire hydrant use, a break in a water main line, area maintenance work, or a fire hydrant hit by a car, are possible events that can cause this condition. If you are experiencing discolored water from your tap, allow water to settle down for a short time and then flush all faucets in your house for several minutes. If the water does not clear up after the initial flushing, repeat the flushing two to three times every half hour. The problem should clear within 2-4 hours; however, if it doesn't, please contact an EVMWD representative for further assistance.

I have no water service but my neighbors do, what could be the problem?
If you are experiencing a loss of water service to your residence, while others in your immediate area are unaffected, it is possible that the water supply valve to your home may be closed. You can check for this condition by first locating the water shutoff valves to your home. These valves are typically found in two locations. The first valve is commonly located outside, in front of your home. It is typically installed on the water supply pipe as it enters the house through the exterior building wall. This valve will normally have a hand wheel attached to it. Turning the hand wheel in a counter-clockwise direction opens the valve. Turning the wheel in a clockwise direction closes the valve, stopping the supply of water to the home. Verify that this valve is turned counter-clockwise to the fully open position to ensure the maximum water supply to the residence. It is also possible that the valve at this location may have a lever handle for opening and closing the valve, rather than a hand wheel. If this is the case, make sure that the handle on the valve is positioned so that it is aligned parallel to the water supply pipe. If the handle is observed to be in a position that is crossing the water pipeline, or is in any direction that is not fully parallel with the pipe, it should be turned so that the handle is fully parallel with the pipe to ensure maximum water supply to the residence. If it is determined that the supply valve on the water pipe entering the home is fully open, or, if there is no valve at this location, the second location to check is at the water meter. The water meter is typically found near the street in the parkway, sidewalk or front yard area of the home. It will be located inside of a plastic or concrete box with a removable access lid set at ground level. The surface of the lid will be marked "water" or "water meter". When you remove the lid you will see the water meter located in the center of the meter box. Within the box there is customarily a water shutoff valve installed next to the meter on the water line going toward the house. If it is the wheel type, make sure that the wheel is turned counter-clockwise to the fully open position. If it has the lever handle type, make sure the handle is aligned in a fully parallel position with the water line. If the valves at both locations are fully open and there is still no water supply to your home, please contact an EVMWD representative for further assistance.

Regarding my water service line, where does my responsibility start and stop?
The service connections extending from the water main to the meter, including the meter box and angle meter stop on the inlet side of the meter and customer service valve on the outlet side of the meter will be installed and maintained by the District. All other pipes and fixtures extending from, connected to, or lying beyond the District's service connection will be installed and maintained by the owner of the property.

 




How can I check for leaks on my property?
An easy way to check for water leaks on your property can be done by using your water meter. First, you will need to find the location of your water meter. The water meter is typically found near the street in the parkway, sidewalk or the front yard area of your home. It will be located inside a plastic or concrete box with a removable access lid set at ground level. The surface of the lid will be marked "Water" or "Water Meter". When you remove the lid you will see the water meter located in the center of the meter box. Most meters have a sweep hand much like the second hand on a clock. Some meters may have a small diamond or triangle shaped "spinner" set in the face of the meter, and other meters may have both a sweep hand and a "spinner". Turn off all water faucets and water-using appliances on your property, indoors and out. When you are done, look at your meter. If the sweep hand or the diamond/triangle "spinner" is moving, there is water passing through your meter, and that means either you've forgotten to turn something off, or you have a leak on your side of the meter. Continue to investigate and repair any leak(s) until sweep hand or the small diamond or triangle spinner has completely stopped. EVMWD does not repair leaks on your side of the meter. That is your responsibility. You may wish to call a plumber, because hidden leaks can be very expensive.

Where can I dispose of hazardous items such as paint, solvent, bleach, antifreeze, chrome polish, motor oil, household cleaning products?
Hazardous products should be disposed of properly at a household hazardous waste collection center.  Please visit the Riverside County Household Hazardous Water Collection Program website at www.rivcoeh.org/hhhw.htm  Never pour any hazardous substance down the drain!

Is EVMWD subject to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC)?
No. EVMWD is a non-profit, public agency established in 1950 under California’s Municipal Water District Act of 1911. As a special district, elected representatives from five divisions have authority for setting EVMWD’s policies, rates, fees and charges. Board members are bound by law to protect the public interest.

Who sets the policies, rates, charges and fees of the district?

 
An elected Board of Directors representing five divisions within the district sets policy for the district. Rates, fees and charges  are developed and adopted by the Board after careful analysis of operating costs, financing needs and industry practices. The Board of Directors is duty bound to establish sound fiscal policies.

Why am I being charged standby charges when I’m not even connected to your services?  


Standby charges are assessed to unimproved property for a future benefit of our facilities. The charge on your tax bill is an annual standby charge that the District collects on your property tax bill to offset the cost of repair and maintenance of water and sewer facilities and for the replacement of these facilities, as necessary, to ensure the facilities are in proper working condition when you are ready to connect to the system.

I am considering purchasing a piece of property that is currently being assessed standby charges. How long will I have to pay this assessment?  


Standby charges are assessed on unimproved property. When a parcel is improved and connected to our facilities the standby charges are no longer assessed.

How do I get a will serve letter?
A will serve letter is issued by EVMWD outlining the conditions of water & sewer service to a particular parcel. It is also the District's conditional commitment to serve new customers. A will serve letter is required by the county and city to ensure that sufficient capacity is available to serve new construction. A completed will serve application form must be submitted via the Customer Service counter along with the appropriate fee outlined at the bottom of the application. Applications will not be accepted with out this fee. Applications are available at the Reception Desk in the District's Lobby at 31315 Chaney Street. The will serve letter will be mailed within ten business days from receipt of the application and fees

How can I determine if water and/or sewer is available to a particular piece of property?
In order to determine if water and sewer is currently available to a specific parcel, you must speak to an Engineering staff member. Please be sure you have the Assessor's Parcel Number of the property at the time you call for information. If water is available, the meter can be installed at the property line after you apply for a will serve letter and pay the District's water connection fee. If sewer is available, the home or commercial building can be connected after you apply for a will serve letter and pay the District's sewer connection fee. If sewer is available, staff can verify whether there is an existing sewer lateral; otherwise, you will be required to hire a Class "A" Contractor to construct the lateral to your property line in addition to paying the District's sewer connection fee. If the structure is farther than 200 feet from a sewer line, the county or city may not mandate you to extend the sewer line nor connect to District facilities. If you would like to meet in person with an Engineering staff member, we recommend you make an appointment so that we can better serve you. To talk to an Engineering staff member, please call (951) 674-3146 extension 8265

How can I obtain a water and/or sewer fee quote?
Water and sewer capacity or connection fees are charged when a property owner connects to the District's facilities. These one-time fees enable new customers to buy into the District's system of wells, reservoirs, and treatments plants. The fees are due before the meter is installed and the home is connected to sewer. You can talk to an Engineering staff member for a verbal fee quote for planning purposes. Please be sure you have the Assessor's Parcel Number of the property at the time you call for information. Other Engineering fees that will apply to tract or commercial development, and are based on the Engineering Cost Estimate of constructed facilities, are plan check fees calculated at 3% and water and sewer inspection fees calculated at 8%.

How do I request maps and/or record drawings?
The District's Engineering Department has Mylar drawings of all the constructed water and sewer lines in the District. If you are requesting a copy of a drawing, please fax a request to 909-674-7554 referencing the assessor's parcel number along with a site map showing the streets of interest. The District charges a copying fee of $5 per page. Engineering firms requesting sets of drawings may send a bonded blue printer to pick up and return the plans at no charge from the District. To talk to a staff member to obtain original forms for Easements, Quitclaim Deeds, and Encroachment Permits onto Lake Property please call (951) 674-3146 extension 8427

How can I obtain a fireflow test?
The fee to schedule a fire flow test is $125. Please bring a site map or be able to identify the hydrant at the Customer Service counter located in the District's lobby at 31315 Chaney Street. The test results will be faxed or mailed to you within 10 days of the request. The County of Riverside Fire Marshall requires that each property owner submit a letter from their water purveyor stating the size and location of the nearest fire hydrant to the parcel. The hydrant must be able to supply 500 gallons per minute and be located within 500 feet. Please be sure you have the Assessor's Parcel Number and address of the property at the time you call to request a letter.

How can I obtain a copy of the Districts construction standards?
The fee to obtain a copy of the District's Construction Standards is $50.00. There is an additional fee of $15 to have the standards mailed, or $35 for Federal Express shipping. You may also submit your Federal Express account number to have the shipping costs billed directly to you. A online review version is available below. Please contact the Engineering Department to obtain a hardcopy of the standards at (951) 674-3146 extension 8265

A online copy is available for review here

Why is EVMWD switching from chlorine to chloramines for disinfection?
There are several advantages to using chloramines.  The most important one is the improvement in the taste and odor of the water.  Chloraminated water has much less objectionable taste and odor than chlorinated water.  Water treated with chloramines will form less disinfection by-products, such as trihalomethanes, which are suspected carcinogens.  Chloramine has the ability to sustain itself in the water longer than chlorine, thus providing consistent bacterial control.

Will home water treatment units remove chloramines?
Removal of chloramines by home water treatment units will depend on the unit design.  In-home water filtration unites do not remove chloramines completely.  In any case, removal of chloramines may not be necessary, since they are safe for the general population to consume.

What are the effects of chloramines on swimming pools?
The effects of chloramines on swimming pools should be minor.  When a pool is first filled with chloraminiated water, care should be exercised to use the proper method if residual is desired.  Pool owners may need to check pool chemicals more frequently until the residuals stabilize. 

When will the switch from chlorine to chloramines take place?
EVMWD anticipates the change to chloramines by July, 2005.

What are the benefits of chloramine water treatment?

  • Improved water taste, odor
  • More residual in distributions system to continue disinfecting longer
  • Lower disinfection by products

Chloramine disinfection method is safer and will produce better tasting water, but may affect the following:

  • Kidney dialysis patients – seek advise from your doctor
  • Aquatic creatures – check with your local pet store
  • Medical laboratories

When did EVMWD begin the solar project?
THE DISTRICT INITIATED A PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY IN JUNE 2004.

How much will the project cost, how long does EVMWD expect it will take to pay off the project?
THE TOTAL PROJECT COSTS (INCLUDING INTERNAL LABOR & OVERHEAD) IS APPROX. $6 MIL, OF WHICH WE ARE RECEIVING AN SCE REBATE FOR $3 MIL.  WE ANTICIPATE THAT WE WILL RECOVER THE PROJECT COSTS WITHIN 9-10 YRS.

What is the lifespan for the project?
25 YRS.

Has EVMWD, or will it, receive any grants or rebates to fund the project?
YES. SCE INCENTIVE GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $3 MIL.

How much energy will the system produce for the district?
THE ENERGY PRODUCED IS SUBJECT TO DIURNAL AS WELL AS SEASONAL VARIATIONS.  THE SYSTEM IS RATED AT 670 Kw AND IT IS ANTICIPATED THAT THE SYSTEM WILL PRODUCE APPROX. 1,041,604 kWh DURING A TYPICAL METEOROLOGICAL YEAR.

How much money is the system expected to save EVMWD?
APPROX. $7 MIL OVER THE LIFE OF THE PROJECT (I.E. 25 YRS).

What will the power be used for? (i.e. district headquarter, sewage treatment plants)
THE POWER WILL BE USED TO OFFSET DEMAND AT THE REGIONAL WRF AND THE DISTRICT HEADQUARTERS FACILITY.

 Were you able to reach the April deadline last year to receive the $2.4 million incentive from Southern California Edison?
YES. THE RESERVED SCE INCENTIVE GRANT CAP IS $3,014,159.

How much electricity does EVMWD's solar power system produce?
The 765kW rated solar power system will produce over 1 million kW of power every year, enough to power approximately 1 million homes!

How does the project compare with other solar systems in the region?
EVMWD's solar project is the largest municipal solar power system in Riverside County in terms of power generated.

What are the key benefits of the solar power system?
Not only will the solar power system save the District and its ratepayers crucial dollars over the course of its 25 year lifespan, it will be environmentally friendy and help reduce demand on California's electrical grid during peak demand times.

What are the benefits of solar power?
Solar power is a 100% renewable, zero emissions energy source that not only reduces operating costs, but helps to protect the environment.  In addition, solar power systems require virtually no maintenance and include a 25 year warranty on the power output to ensure there are no additional costs associated with the systems.

How does the system work?
Covering over 57,000 square feet, the system uses 3,960 solar panels which use silicon technology to convert sunlight into electricity. 

How was the Aeration Pipe Operation funded? Will it need continual   funding for upkeep/maintenance?
Project’s total cost $2,525,000

Prop 13 funding is $1,550,000

Remaining costs split between the City of Lake Elsinore, the County and EVMWD

Annual operation and maintenance of the Aeration System will be $300,000 split between the City of Lake Elsinore, the County and EVMWD

What causes lake "stratification?" What is the likelihood that we will experience severe fish kills like we did back in 2002?
As the lake water becomes warm during the spring and summer months, dissolved oxygen is depleted in the lower levels of the lake, which quickly causes the water quality to deteriorate, causing algae blooms and ultimately, fish kills.  The purpose of this project is to prevent oxygen depletions in deep waters, reduce the build up of phosphorus – an effect of depleted oxygen, reduce algae and   create a better habitat for fish.  All of these result in the less likelihood of fish    kills.

What will the new system do to the surrounding environment; i.e.     national forest and property value?
A healthier Lake Elsinore means more recreation and tourism revenue, long-term growth in local lodging and restaurants, and more           high-end planned communities around the Lake.

--this will help improve property values

--increased revenue could help fund local environmental improvements  near the lake, such as clean up efforts and habitat renewal programs

Will the pipes pose any threat to Lake users? Will the lake users pose any threat to the pipes (i.e., Can trash, ski ropes, anchors, etc. clog/harm the pipes and their system)?
A healthier Lake Elsinore means more recreation and tourism revenue, long-term growth in local lodging and restaurants, and more high-end planned communities around the Lake.

--this will help improve property values 
--increased revenue could help fund local environmental improvements  near the lake, such as clean up efforts and habitat renewal programs

Will the aeration pipes solve the water quality issues that have plagued the lake in recent years?
--Can’t predict weather conditions in the future

--But, our studies have found that increasing the level of oxygen in the water greatly reduces the likelihood of the algae blooms we’ve witnessed in the past. 

--public feedback regarding the water quality improvement in recent has been positive

What if the lake should ever flood? What about earthquakes? Will the equipment be washed away, crack, or move position and rendered useless?  Will the compressors blow up?
These issues and ones similar to them were all addressed in the project’s environmental impact review process and although there were no significant impacts found, precautions have been taken to ensure the public’s safety at all times.

Why should we continue to spend tax payer money to clean the lake?
A healthy lake means more future investment in Lake Elsinore

More recreation and tourism revenue

Long-term potential increase in lodging and restaurant growth

Encourages high-end planned communities around the lake

 

How noisy are the compressors? Will it irritate lake users/ home owners since it operates mostly at night?
-- The noise level at the City site will be reduced below the City of Lake Elsinore’s Daytime and Nighttime Noise Ordinance at the nearest residential    location

--The noise level at the County site will be reduced below the County’s daytime    and nighttime standards at the nearest residential location
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