Aquifer storage program stores excess water from Carmel River

Capitalizing on recent rainy weather, California American Water has captured and stored more than 300 acre-feet of water so far this season.

The Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) program captures excess winter flows from the Carmel River to replenish underground aquifers. ASR is made possible by a well, pump and booster station network along the Carmel River and the award-winning parallel pipeline and booster project California American Water installed along General Jim Moore Boulevard to transport ASR water.

“Being prepared benefits our customers and the communities we serve,” said Mike Magretto, Operations Manager for California American Water in Pacific Grove. “Our team works around the clock to monitor our infrastructure and helps ensure that we capture and store as much water as possible for later use.”

As mandated by the state, California American Water’s ASR program only captures excess Carmel River flows during heavy rainfall. With increasing periods of drought, the opportunity for ASR recharge can be irregular.

“We work collaboratively with our partner agencies who complement the great work being done with water level monitoring and water injection for later use,” said Kevin Tilden, President of California American Water.