Surface Water Pilot Project - Phase 2

Update on Pilot Project (Dated August 11, 2020)

  • Receiving water from the City of Santa Cruz began again in December 2019 and ended January 31, 2020.
  • Water quality in the distribution system was monitored through April 2020.

What Is It?

The Surface Water Pilot Project is part of the District's Community Water Plan, our multi-pronged approach to restoring the groundwater basin and preventing further seawater intrusion. The water purchased from the City of Santa Cruz is water that is treated at the City's Graham Hill Water Treatment Plant prior to entering Soquel Creek Water District's distribution system. All transferred water is the same drinking water supplied to customers of the City of Santa Cruz Water Department. View the City's most recent Consumer Confidence Report that summarizes the City's water quality data.

Area That Received This Water

When Did It Start & How Long Will It Last?

The change of water source in this area is anticipated to begin on or around November 1, 2019 lasting through April 30, 2020. Some terms and conditions include Loch Lomond Reservoir being full and is spilling or anticipated to be full by April 1, aquatic flows meet requirements, and the City of Santa Cruz is not in a mandatory curtailment. View the weekly water conditions of Santa Cruz's water system.

Changes in Water Quality

Water quality changes can occur whenever a change in drinking water source is made. These changes are not expected to affect the safety of your drinking water in that area but you may see changes in water hardness and water aesthetics including discoloration, taste, chlorine odor, and turbidity.

Changes in Hardness

The City of Santa Cruz's water is less hard than the District's. Last year, the City's water hardness averaged 175 parts per million. The District's water averaged 198 parts per million.

Report an Issue

We encourage you to email customer service, submit an online form or call 831-475-8500, option 3.