Protecting Water Quality
Clean Water Analyst and Ombudsperson
Strategic Initiatives supports efforts across the County to promote clean water policies. This includes working with a variety of public and private agencies, community groups and non-profit organizations to catalyze water quality improvements, and work collaboratively to solve large, complex problems.
- Why does this work matter?
Water is critical to the health and vitality of Sonoma County residents. It supports our local economy and provides countless recreational opportunities. Strategic Initiatives supports programs that ensure continued access to this clean resource. We do this by:
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- Providing opportunities for communities wanting to learn more about the work regional water being done by Sonoma County.
- Advocating for local communities who may require additional resources to create lasting environmental improvements.
- Conducting studies to find and fix sources of fecal pollution in the Russian River.
- Working with County staff to develop short and long term strategies for water quality protection and improvement.
- Collaborating with regulators to understand the implications of future regulations.
- Staying informed about relevant regulations and water management best practices.
- Preparing reports and presentations on water quality issues.
Community Engagement
Clean Water staff work closely with a variety of agencies, but primarily with local communities. Engagement local communities may include:
- Participating in public meetings and workshops.
- Providing information and resources on water quality issues.
- Responding to public inquiries and concerns related to water.
- Collaborating with community groups and stakeholders on water protection initiatives.
Topics of Interest
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This website is meant to inform and provide resources about waste water treatment systems within Sonoma County. |
North Coast Regional Water Board The North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board oversees the protection and restoration of surface and ground water resources in the North Coast Region. |
Lower Russian River Community Advisory Group The Lower Russian River Wastewater Citizens Advisory Group (CAG) meets monthly to discuss progress on the Monte Rio/Villa Grande wastewater solutions pilot project, regulatory status, and potential governance and funding options. |
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Many waterbodies in this watershed are listed under Clean Water Act Section 303(d) for impairments caused by pollutants like sediment, temperature, pathogens, mercury, phosphorus, and dissolved oxygen. Learn what is happening here. |
The Laguna de Santa Rosa is the largest tributary to the Russian River and drains a 254 square mile watershed in Sonoma County. Efforts are underway by the Regional Water Board to develop new TMDLs for nitrogen, phosphorus, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and sediment. |
The Gualala River is included on the Clean Water Act 303(d) list for impairments associated with excessive sediment and high temperatures. The Regional Water Board is currently developing an action plan to address continuing water quality impairments. |
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Sonoma County Stormwater and Water Quality Programs Stormwater runoff occurs when rainfall flows over the ground. Impervious surfaces like parking lots, rooftops, and streets prevent stormwater from naturally soaking into the ground. |
Russian River Watershed Association A coalition of ten cities, counties and special districts in the Russian River Watershed that have come together to coordinate regional programs for clean water, habitat restoration and watershed enhancement. |
West County Water Quality and Recycled Water Supply Feasibility Study This study is exploring opportunities for connections between smaller wastewater systems or consolidation of multiple smaller systems to create a larger customer base. |
Contact Information:
If you have an issue, concern, complaint, or want to learn more about what’s happening in your community please reach out to:
Todd Hunsdorfer, Clean Water Analyst and Ombudsperson
Todd.Hunsdorfer@sonomacounty.gov
(707) 565-3747
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