Cities of Monterey, Seaside and California American Water Partner to Save Water

The City of Monterey and City of Seaside are making significant improvements to the outdoor irrigation systems at Shoreline Park, the Del Monte frontage area, and Cutino Park, that combined are expected to save nearly 700,000 gallons of water each year. The improvements were funded through a landscape grant program administered by local water provider, California American Water and approved by the California Public Utilities Commission as part of the company’s joint water conservation program with the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District.

“This program is an excellent example of the public and private sectors working together to achieve environmental benefits and help our community comply with water restrictions,” said Monterey Mayor Chuck Della Sala. “The improvements on the Del Monte frontage area and Shoreline Park demonstrate how much water can be saved through more efficient technology. We were happy to be selected for the program and even happier to enhance our water conservation efforts.”

More than $100,000 was awarded to the two cities to replace high water use landscape, such as turf and high water consuming sprinkler systems with more efficient drip irrigation. It is anticipated the program will be reauthorized by the CPUC next year, allowing other municipalities located within California American Water’s local service territory the opportunity to apply.

"Seaside consistently strives to conserve resources and to improve our environment. We are particularly pleased by this effort which is focused on an area actively used by the children of Seaside and the region," said Seaside Mayor Felix Bachofner. "The improvements made today will benefit residents of the community for years to come."

Interpretive signs have been placed at each site to raise awareness of the landscape grant program and the potential to save water outdoors. The signs encourage residents and businesses to contact California American Water and the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District to learn more about available incentive programs and conservation resources. More information is available at www.montereywaterinfo.org.

California American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), provides high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 600,000 people.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

In 2011, American Water is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a yearlong campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.