California Water News Daily Your Source For Water News in California
Earlier this year, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power drained the Santa Ynez Reservoir in Pacific Palisades to make repairs to the floating cover that ensures the drinking water in Santa Ynez Reservoir in Pacific Palisades meets state and federal water quality standards. Following the completion of those repairs, it was discovered there were additional small tears and pinhole sized leaks in the floating cover.
The holes were suspected when staff observed water ponding on top of the cover last week — indicating a possible leak near the just-repaired section. Divers then confirmed the additional small tears and pin-sized leaks.
So, now LADWP will have to re-drain the reservoir to make the additional repairs, which the agency says could take three to four more weeks.
“The fact that the initial repairs and inspection by the contractor did not detect the small tears and pinholes on the floating cover is troubling, especially since LADWP required the contractor to fully test the repairs prior to refilling the reservoir. While this development is a frustrating setback, we are working as quickly as possible with the contractor to return Santa Ynez Reservoir to service,” said Anselmo Collins, Senior Assistant General Manager – Water System.
As work to repair and refill the reservoir continues, staff is also investigating alternatives to replace the floating cover.
