1. What are some ways to halt seawater intrusion in the Monterey County aquifers? By Blanca Rios Fall 2015 CSUMB Environmental Studies

2.  Currently the demand for freshwater far-outstrips its replenishment rate.  Over 6 miles of salinity into the 180-foot aquifer, and about 3 miles into the 400-foot aquifer.  Two general approaches: Groundwater replenishment via desalination and treated wastewater. Introduction & Background

3.  Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency (MRWPCA): Central values- Environmental restoration. Empirical Assumption- Monterey County losing its wells to salinity, via the intrusion of seawater. Fact- Replenishment of groundwater would halt the seawater intrusion. Stakeholder Perspectives

4.  General Public (In Monterey County): Central values- Accessibility of freshwater. Empirical Assumptions- Going further underground to find water. Treated wastewater may have harmful traces of pharmaceuticals. Fact- Rainwater will eventually replenish the aquifers. Stakeholder Perspectives

5. Policy OptionEnvironmental Sustainability Economic Sustainability Social Equity No implementation (keep using same water sources.) -Depleting aquifer level. (-) -Increasing soil salinity. (-) No additional expense beyond current expenditure. (-) Public would continue to pay for water in relation to personal consumption. (-) Implement wastewater treatment for agriculture only. Decrease reliance on pumping of fresh water. (+) -Rec. water is less expensive than fresh water. (+) Unable to provide enough water for the whole county with only one treatment plant. (-) Implement wastewater treatment for both agricultural and potable use. -Decrease reliance on pumping of fresh water. (+) -Halting saltwater intrusion. (+) -Decrease on water price for agriculture. (+) -Increase on water price for potable tap. (-) -Unable to provide enough water for the whole county with only one treatment plant. (-) -No/reduced water use limitations. (+) Evaluation of Policy Options

6. Implement wastewater treatment for both agricultural and potable use.  Limitations: Not having concrete info in favor of the public’s view.  Concessions: Strongest advantage for no change is no economic increase. Strongest advantage for agricultural implementation is no increase in cost to general public (i.e., water bills.)  Justification: Local and sustainable for potable municipal water.  Consequences & Implications: Economy- Increase in cost.  Accountability: Incentive programs.  Conclusion: Implementing recycled water for replenishment will assist in restoring balance to the environment. Local potable water will help save money in the long run. Recommendation

7.  Strongest areas?  Areas needing attention? Self Assessment