SLVWD "Do Not Drink, Do Not Boil" Lab Results Received as of 9/1/2020

Due to the CZU Lightning Complex Fire, High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE) mains in the direct line of fire were damaged and melted causing depressurization of the water distribution system. Immediately after discovery, the San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) contacted its regulatory agency, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) who recommended issuing a precautionary Do Not Drink, Do Not Boil (DND-DNB) notice to all affected residents in the depressurized zones. The depressurized (affected) zones included SLVWD services north of the Alba Rd/Hwy 9 intersection, this is the “DND-DNB Zone”. This precautionary DND-DNB notice was issued in conjunction with the SWRCB on August 29, 2020.

In preparation of the fire, the SLVWD was able to isolate several areas of the distribution system before some of the HDPE mains were destroyed. Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) are a possible contaminant of the depressurization zone due to the melting of HDPE. All VOC samples collected were analyzed under EPA method 524.2, which includes a screen of 84 different VOCs.

Currently the District has received results for 4 samples of the 31 being analyzed. Results for the remaining samples are expected this week. One of the 4 sample results received was for the DND-DNB Zone. This early lab result for the DND-DNB Zone is encouraging, but it’s not enough information to draw any conclusions. It is important to follow all safety notices.

Please see the full memo & results here. 

All samples collected by the SLVWD have had their analysis expedited, but we want the ratepayers of the SLVWD to understand that it does take time to receive results. After samples have been collected, the samples must be sent to our contract laboratory, which requires overnighting these samples via courier. Once received at the lab, the samples are analyzed utilizing sophisticated instrumentation that requires frequent calibration and quality control checks to ensure the analytical process is accurate. Once the raw data from the instrumentation is generated, it must undergo a strict quality control/quality assurance process for results to be accepted as valid. Once these results are validated, the final lab report can be created. Once the final lab report is completed, it is sent to the SLVWD, and reviewed by SLVWD staff and SWRCB staff. Again, we are requesting patience as we are collecting samples and analyzing lab data as quickly and thoroughly
 

All customer questions should be directed to customer service: (831) 338-2153 or customerservice@slvwd.com

All Media Questions can be directed to our public relations firm, Marci Bracco Cain: email marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com.