Diablo Water District January Update

As of June 1st, we are currently in a Stage 1 Drought. Bookmark our website for Drought Updates.

January 2022

Rainy Days Enough to Drive Drought Away?

2022 ended with an atmospheric river that left the Sierra snowpack at 177% of normal for December, followed by six additional atmospheric rivers in the first half of January. Lower elevation reservoirs (Folsom, New Melones, etc.) are filling nicely due to heavy rainfall, and even reservoirs (Shasta, Oroville, etc.) that rely on snowmelt are increasing their storage due to the high-elevation snow levels running off into these reservoirs. Los Vaqueros is unique as it relies on pumped Delta water to refill, rather than watershed runoff, and currently the reservoir remains at 50% of capacity.

While this rain and snow is snow is certainly positioning our water supply to be in better shape this year than last year, state drought declarations will likely remain in place. Last year at this time, we had experienced above normal rainfall that led into an extremely dry January thru March. The April 1^st snow survey will determine statewide water allocations for the upcoming water year.

Rainy days may bring some comfort, but conservation continues to be our best offense for the climate swings of California. Remaining resilient and mindful in your water usage is key and helps us stay focused on our water future.

Ken Crockett Retires from DWD Board of Directors

Diablo Water District board member, Ken Crockett, served 38 years as a Director, and retired from his role effective December 2022. This is the longest tenure a board member has served since the District's inception in May 1953.

Ken was recognized in a Resolution of Appreciation that was read at the November 16, 2022 Special Board Meeting, highlighting the incredible contributions and dedication he gave to the District. During his tenure on the Board, Ken provided support to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement for the construction of the Randall-Bold Water Treatment Plant in Oakley and improvements to its water supply reliability through the use of local ground water. Ken provided invaluable review and input in the preparation of annual District budgets and audits, and his historical knowledge of the District helped inform and guide Board decisions.

Ken was also appointed as the District's representative on the Oakley Municipal Advisory Council to help guide the growth that was occurring before Oakley became a city and served in many other roles as well that contributed to the "one water" approach that guides the District today.

He was endeared by Staff and the District celebrates this outstanding act of public service, heart and dedication on behalf of the District and all of our customers.

Learn more about our Board of Directors and see a full District Chronology here!

District Establishes Freedom High School Local Scholarship

The District is excited to announce its participation in the Freedom High School Local Scholarship. The Board of Directors supports this opportunity that will assist local students in their goal of attending college or trade schools by receiving financial support from the community. This scholarship is funded through other income sources, such as cell tower leases that the District has, not by water rates.

This opportunity aligns with the District’s mission of public engagement, the vision of being a valued community resource; the value of we care, plus the goal of encouraging careers in all aspects of water operations, finance, management, and more.

The scholarships will be awarded at the Annual Scholarship Awards Night in May 2023. Please encourage and share this opportunity for all eligible Seniors of Freedom High School.

Freedom High School Local Scholarship Application

Click Here for an Additional Scholarship Opportunity through ACWA

We love hearing from you.

UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS

January 25th - Regular Board Meeting 6:30 p.m. (In-person or Virtual Attendance)
January 26th - Special Board Meeting 10:00 a.m. (In-person)

Lobby Hours: Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Our Customer Service Team is available by phone on Fridays until 4 p.m.

Emergencies: 24 hours / 7 days per week

Phone: (925) 625-3798 • Email: customers@diablowater.org

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 127, Oakley, CA 94561

DIABLOWATER.ORG