Upland Water Storage
Upland water storage, is the best option for Oceanside
The Oceanside area is in a desirable location, with high elevation abundant clean water, in close proximity to an ever increasing demand.
The Many Benefits of Upland Water Storage
High elevation water, stored in small lakes and extracted from wells, is very clean with less inherent risks than using direct surface water. There is no clay, algae or dead fish sludge, minimal risk of fire retardant, chemicals or other contaminants that are prevalent in low elevation surface water. The water is at a lower temperature, a required drinking water standard, and the cool clean water will require a minimal amount of processing, disinfection or system cleaning chemicals.
Gravity siphon pipes can produce large volumes of quality water, to populated areas with no pumping required. Water from high elevation wells will have a dependable quality and volume all season and is more adaptable during drought situations. The system would be designed to store enough water, so no river extraction is required during summer months, and deficient groundwater aquifers could be recharged, with surplus untreated water. The controlled diversion and storage of excess run-off would benefit fish habitat, this will also reduce damaging storm surges lower in the watershed.
To see a short PDF presentation about the benefits and advantages of upland storage:
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Smaller diameter flexible lines are easier and less expensive to install, with more resistance to earthquake damage. Multiple distribution lines, can be directed to many destinations at one time. The use of inline electric generation turbines can also create an independent electric power system.
After installation the gravity water system would require minimal servicing and operational maintenance; a fraction of the costs, compared with the proposed pumped-up water treatment plant, taking contaminated surface water, from low in the watershed on the Englishman River. Also upland storage provides high pressure water during emergencies, urban and forest fires and in the event of an earthquake.
The constructed lakes and streams, could provide some recreation and tourism opportunities and the constant sustainable flow of clean water could supply useful water features at lower elevations. Another big advantage is that the construction and operation of the system could be phased in, over several years as needed.
