Agenda - Council - 07/28/2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Recognizes uncertainty and seeks to minimize risk Multiple approaches This plan recognizes that, across most of the metropolitan area, groundwater is the principal water supply source. Public and private water providers and users have invested many millions of dollars in water supply infrastructure. The Metropolitan Council values these past investments and supports plans that leverage these existing investments in infrastructure within the regional and local sustainable limits of water sources. Sustainable water supply management will maximize the region's use of existing water supply infrastructure investments - usually groundwater - within sustainable limits. Where demand exceeds the sustainable limits of existing sources, water conservation and other sources are available to support demand. With access to multiple water sources, the Twin Cities metropolitan area is relatively water rich. As a region, a strategic and combined use of all available water supply sources simultaneously supports the region's economy and the quality of life that is so highly valued. And a diverse set of water sources provides better flexibility - to better manage rapid growth, extreme weather conditions, and other risks. Like an investment portfolio, the region needs a combination of water sources that: • supports our growth objectives • considers cost and time • distributes risk by diversifying There is no single solution for ensuring a long term sustainable water supply across the metro area. There are generally six water supply approaches available across the region, and it is the community's responsibility to consider which combination works best for them: 1. Water conservation 2. Groundwater 3. Stormwater reuse 4.Surface water 5. Enhanced recharge 6. Reclaimed wastewater Together, this robust combination of sources can provide more than enough water for our region's needs. In parts of the region, however, some sources may not be enough to meet planned demand. Strategies like water conservation can begin immediately and may eliminate the need for or buy time to consider additional options. Other strategies, like expanding surface water infrastructure, take longer to implement but can alleviate pressure on groundwater systems in areas with higher demand for potable water. Much like investing, a deliberate collection of water supply sources, programs, and infrastructure will provide us with the best short and long-term water supply options. Figure 4 illustrates the vision for regional water supply sustainability. WATER SUPPLY MASTER PLAN- Draft June 2015