What Is the Watermaster?
The Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster is a public agency that oversees groundwater use in the San Gabriel Valley. Think of it as a guardian and referee for underground water rights.
Key Roles:
- Tracks groundwater levels to prevent over-pumping.
- Allocates water rights fairly among cities, water companies, and private users.
- Coordinates replenishment by importing water from sources like the State Water Project.
- Protects water quality by monitoring contamination and cleanup efforts.
Why It Matters to Valley View
Valley View Mutual Water Company pumps water from the Main San Gabriel Groundwater Basin, so Watermaster’s decisions directly affect:
- How much water Valley View can pump
- How much it pays in replenishment assessments
- Long-term sustainability of Baldwin Park’s water supply
Fun Facts About Watermaster
- 🏞️ The basin serves over 1.5 million people in the San Gabriel Valley.
- 📜 The Watermaster was created by a court judgment in 1973 to resolve disputes over groundwater rights.
- 💧 Replenishment water is often imported from Northern California or the Colorado River.
- 🧪 They also manage cleanup of contaminated groundwater, especially from industrial pollution in the 20th century.