California American Water Secures Lease Approval for Four Slant Wells in Monterey Desalination Project
AWK•California American Water gained State Lands Commission approval to lease land for four new subsurface slant wells and one converted well for its Monterey Peninsula desalination facility. The project aims to address an 815 million gallon water deficit by providing drought-proof supply and supporting sustainable regional growth.
1. Regulatory Approval
The California State Lands Commission voted to grant California American Water a lease for state lands to support its Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project. The approval covers construction of four new subsurface slant wells and conversion of an existing slant well for the region’s desalination facility.
2. Project Scope and Design
The slant wells will draw naturally filtered seawater from beneath the ocean floor, reducing harm to marine life and vulnerability to surface pollution. The wells are integral to the three-pronged Monterey Peninsula Water Supply Project aimed at ensuring long-term water reliability.
3. Addressing Water Deficit
Recent analysis indicates the Monterey Peninsula faces an annual shortfall of 815 million gallons by 2050. The new desalination facility is designed to fill this gap and support sustainable regional growth through reliable water delivery.
4. Community and Environmental Benefits
Over three years of outreach included tribal consultation, environmental justice forums and local engagement to refine project plans. The subsurface intake approach aligns with permitting requirements while minimizing environmental impact on marine ecosystems.
