“When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.”

~ Benjamin Franklin

An unseasonably cool low-pressure system has settled across the West Coast. In addition to below normal temperatures, fog and clouds blanketed the Crescenta Valley. For the most part, other than a few scattered showers, weather as such fits the definition of “May/June gloom.” Our rainy season isn’t officially over until June 30 but beyond this point the chance of measurable precipitation is slim to none.

In April Californians joined together in one big sigh of relief as Gov. Jerry Brown announced, “This drought emergency is over, but the next drought could be around the corner.”

Soon after, we received a notice from the CVWD in the mail. They often send out informative newsletters concerning water quality, water conservation, local wells and current maintenance projects. But this one was different; it was a Public Notice Of Proposed Increase In Water Rates And Charges. Wait a minute! With reservoirs filled to capacity and a deep snow pack beginning to thaw, why would the Crescenta Valley Water District (CVWD) begin to charge more for water? One may think an increase makes absolutely no sense … or does it? A non-political and fact-based explanation will perhaps shed some light on the subject.

The Crescenta Valley is unique in many ways. Our water source is unlike those found in other regions of California. Most dip into state water supplies, i.e. reservoirs; most of our water is pumped from the Verdugo Basin groundwater. There deep underground water-saturated layers of rock (granite and basalt) form aquifers. Aquifers are contained underground repositories of water. Their precious content can be pumped to the surface by wells or may flow from springs. The CVWD maintains and pumps water from local wells. These provide the majority of CV’s water; the remainder comes from the Colorado River and northern California. The cost of imported water is three times that of local water.

Years of drought have depleted ground reserves. While the levels have risen, it will take several good rain years to recover. Until then, the price of water may increase and the “worth of water” will become evident.

The present drizzle is predicted to fizzle as temperatures climb significantly Friday and Saturday. Highs will range in the lower-to-mid 80s for the valleys then peaking this weekend into the lower 90s.

Sue Kilpatrick is a

Crescenta Valley resident and

Official Skywarn Spotter for the

National Weather Service. Reach her at suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.

  Sue Kilpatrick