Buena Park : Ground Water Gives Officials Some Hope

A rich ground-water supply may save residents here from drought-induced water restrictions, according to city officials.

City Engineer Don Jensen reported this week that Buena Park’s strong well water supply could be used to offset reductions imposed by the Metropolitan Water District. If necessary, he said, the wells can provide up to 85% of the city’s water needs.

“We are just fortunate,” Jensen said. “If we aggressively conserve, in all likelihood there would be no ordinance drastically restricting consumption levels.”

The city gets half of its water from the Metropolitan Water District and half from its own supply. Although the city has to pay the Orange County Water District every time water is drawn from a local well, it is not only cheaper than using MWD water but plentiful, Jensen said.

Unlike residents of cities facing major shortages, Buena Park’s water users may be asked to take small measures to reduce waste, such as not hosing down driveways or watering lawns during daylight. Other measures may include imposing fines those who overuse.

“It is a first-stage, least-restrictive approach,” Jensen said.

If water-saving measures are adopted, it would not be the first time residents have been asked to cut back. In response to a city ordinance passed in 1988, residents voluntarily have reduced water use by 4%. Despite this, city departments have been instructed to evaluate their procedures for ways to save more water. In fact, Parks and Recreation Department officials are looking at how to conserve water at the city’s three pools.

“We are in the middle of doing research on wind screens and pool blankets, which reduce evaporation,” said Parks Supt. Rudy Juarez. “Even if (the pool) is not being used, it needs to be maintained.”

Already, watering at city parks and landscaping areas has been reduced.

The City Council is expected to look at water-saving measures at a study session next week.