As Placer County continues its dynamic growth in jobs, housing and opportunity, one critical question arises: Do we have enough water to keep up?

Thanks to the vision of local leaders decades ago, the answer is yes. But keeping that answer as a “yes” requires constant planning, investment and disciplined execution.

The Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) stands out in California for its locally built, owned and operated water system. At the core is the Middle Fork Project, a hydroelectric and water supply system completed 60 years ago with 100% local funding. While much of the state depends on unpredictable state and federal water supplies, PCWA’s supply has remained resilient and dependable — even during historic droughts.

“One thing about water is, we’re all in this together.” — Robert Dugan, PCWA Board Chair

As Board Chair Robert Dugan puts it, “We knew then and we know now — if you can’t store it white (snow), you have to store it wet (reservoirs).”

Over the past 40 years, PCWA’s service population has grown more than 900% and more growth is coming. While the supply is solid, the infrastructure to treat and deliver that water must expand. That’s why PCWA is investing in new capacity, including the upcoming Ophir Water Treatment Plant, a project expected to cost upwards of $200 million.

“If we do our job well and plan five, 10, 15 years ahead,” says Dugan, “then you never have to worry about water.”

PCWA also ensures fairness. Growth pays for itself: existing customers fund ongoing maintenance; new development pays for expansion. “We take our fiduciary responsibility seriously to protect our ratepayers from long-term risk,” Dugan adds.

By securing its water future, growth never comes at the expense of those already here.