By Jennifer Wilson -

We’ve all heard the rumor: “Amador County is going to run out of water by 2030.” According the Amador Water Agency staff, it’s more than just a rumor and the agency is taking it seriously. In an effort to address these shortfalls now, the AWA has been looking at how they can maximize recycled water. At its September 11th meeting, the AWA Board of Directors listened to a presentation by the agency’s Manager of Engineering and Planning, Gene Mancebo, who posed the question, “How can we maximize water reclamation?” Over the last several months, the agency has been researching that question. The end result is a Proposed Regional Reclaimed Water Distribution System that will call for the agency to partner with local cities in a joint water reclamation effort.

During his presentation, Mancebo said “there is not enough water today (to support future growth),” and noted upcoming projects like Gold Rush Ranch & Golf Resort. Currently, many areas of the county use treated, or drinking water for landscaping and agricultural uses. Mancebo noted that most of the county’s schools are using solely treated water to irrigate their ball fields. Additionally, agency staff pointed out that individual cities have, or are planning to build, individual wastewater treatment plants. AWA General Manager Jim Abercrombie cited the fact that, including a proposed wastewater treatment plant in Martell, there may end up being three water treatment plants within a 4-mile stretch, which he feels doesn’t make sense. The agency’s proposed plan focuses on maximizing the use of reclaimed, or recycled wastewater for landscaping, agricultural and industrial uses. They would do so by altering the county’s current water system in various areas, and proposing that the cities work together, instead of on separate projects. Board member Paul Scott said he liked “what you guys are bringing back to us. Building new treatment plants is costly…it is just overburdening to the ratepayers.” Board Chairman John Swift commended Mancebo and his staff and said he applauded the effort. The rest of the board was in general agreement, and unanimously directed staff to continue research and meet with individual cities on the proposed reclamation project.