It is impossible to overstate the tragedy of the Camp and Woolsey fires. The road to recovery will be a long, expensive, and painful one and, unfortunately, rebuilding is only the first of many costs. In addition to the obvious aftermath of a wildfire, there is a subtle yet salient issue these communities will now face: tainted water quality.
Winter Forecast: A Strong Chance of El Niño
Weather experts say the conditions are ripe for a winter El Niño that would bring rain to the south and above-average temperatures to the north.
Cultivating Conservation: Winning Strategies for Water Agencies
From the Ashes: Wildfire Effects on Water Quality
A parched preceding year paired with exceptionally hot summer months set California up for a disastrous and historic 2018 fire season. So far in 2018, Cal Fire has recorded over 876,400 acres burned. That’s more than four times the acreage burned compared to this time last year, which Cal Fire reported as just over 228,800 acres.
It is obvious that these fires are a threat to people, wildlife, structures, and our heroic firefighters, but what is less obvious is the danger they pose to our water quality.
California Considers Permanent Water Restrictions
Regional Spotlight: EVMWD’s Drought-Conscious Water Plan
Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) has released its proposed Drought Contingency Plan in response to expected supply shortages and demand increases. Given California’s recent bouts with extreme drought, it is vital that water agencies develop short-term and long-term plans that factor in drought conditions, water supply, and population needs.