2. Water Innovation Now Collection of Storm Runoff Chris, Steven, Mohammad, and Neda Woodbridge Highschool Junior Class

3. Current Water Crisis California is experiencing a water shortage due to low amounts of snow fall and snow melt, with snow pack percentages down to 30% of normal. The Colorado river and other tributaries have decreased in water because of diversion for agriculture and cities. California’s water tables are dangerously low and cannot be refilled as fast as they are being depleted. If they reach too low of levels, salt water will fill in and ruin the aquifers.

4. Proposal for Solving the Crisis Our group proposes to collect storm runoff that is transported through storm drains. This water can then be cleaned and used as recycled water. Water that was once disposed of can be put to good use.

5. Benefits of Storm Runoff Collection Most storm drains lead straight to the ocean where the water is dumped. The storm runoff can be collected and cleaned with already established recycling facilities. This process is cheaper than desalination and the drains are already put in place.

6. Environmental Effects Pollution is a major concern when dealing with storm drains because the water is taken straight to the sea. Litter, chemicals, and other hazardous materials can damage the ocean. The collection of storm runoff would cut down pollution and help keep our oceans clean.

7. Efficiency Concerns If the system is overloaded, emergency releases will allow the flood water to bypass the collection and empty into the ocean, preventing flood backup. New pipes and systems will be needed to transport the water to a local recycling plant, but most drains are already put in place. Recycling water is an established technology, so no need for funding more research. Recycling plants that can be used have been built all over California, so the cost of starting this project is less.

8. How will it help with the Crisis? Collecting storm runoff will decrease the pressure on other sources of water, including the rivers, snow melt, and aquifers. The recycled water can be used for irrigation, agriculture, washing, and public uses. With a new source of water, there will be less of a water shortage.