California American Water Restores Service to Critical Infrastructure Damaged in 2024 Storms

PACIFIC GROVE, Ca.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--California American Water has returned a key water well back into service while simultaneously completing a major infrastructure repair and upgrade in its Monterey Peninsula water system. During the winter storms of 2024, two large eucalyptus trees fell onto California American Water’s Pearce well rendering a significant source of water supply out of service. Work has been completed on replacement of the well head, submersible pump, electrical equipment, and removal of nearby eucalyptus trees.

“This project was a complete overhaul of the entire Pearce well infrastructure,” said Scott Ottmar, Senior Project Engineer. “Not only did the repair require replacing broken pipes and control equipment, it also involved installation of a new sterilization line and tree removal to prevent future damage.”

A grove of eucalyptus trees lined the Pearce well easement and neighboring homes, several of which fell during last winter’s heavy rainfall. In addition to the restoration of the water infrastructure, arborist reports determined the need for removal of the surrounding 25 trees.

“Collaboration with other utilities to replace infrastructure was essential,” said Ottmar. “We could not have finished the project without working closely with our neighbors, who are happier with the current design, which is always our goal.”

California American Water and its predecessor companies have operated the Monterey Peninsula’s water system for more than 60 years. The system currently serves roughly 100,000 people with a network of over 680 miles of pipeline and over 100 storage tanks. It is one of the most complex water systems in California.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About California American Water

California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, provides safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 750,000 people. For more information, visit www.californiaamwater.com and follow California American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.