• Local customers not affected
PACIFIC GROVE, CA, Oct. 15, 2009 -- Residents of the Monterey Peninsula who receive water service from California American Water were not affected by the recent storms, as water service was not interrupted at anytime.
Power was out at the company's local office, as well as at some pump stations; however, due to the availability of back up generators, all customers had no interruption in water service, and most did not notice any change in water pressure.
"I want to thank our crews who worked hard to make sure our customers had the water they need for their families and pets to bathe, cook and clean with," said Craig Anthony, General Manager. "Water service is vital for everyday health, and especially during inclement weather."
California American Water employs 90 people locally, most of whom work in the field to ensure - day and night - that vital water infrastructure is operational. The company oversees more than 680 miles of pipe, with elevations from sea level to 1,200 feet. The area's water infrastructure also includes treatment plants, water tanks, wells, pumps, pressure regulating stations and fire hydrants.
"Extended power outages can threaten a water operation," Anthony said. "Fortunately, our crews were prepared with back-up generators and through our constant monitoring of tank levels and help from PG&E, were able to keep the system fully operational during the challenges of yesterday's storm."
The risk of power loss to a water system is that with pumps non-operational, pressure can be lost, requiring health officials to institute a boil water order. In such an event, California American Water would notice customers individually through phone calls or door-to-door notices and through outreach to local media outlets, including TV, radio and print.
California American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water, provides high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to more than 600,000 people. Web Site: http://www.californiaamwater.com/
Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest investor-owned 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 32 states and Ontario, Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.
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