The United States Forest Service (USFS), the forest service that manages Mendocino National Forest will shut off water access to the Eel River campground starting Tuesday to preserve the rapidly depleting water supply for the nine firefighters who live at the Eel river Fire Station, a report said.
Frank Aebly (the forest’s district ranger) stated that Eel River was one of the few campgrounds that have water supplies for visitors. This was the first time in his nearly 10 year tenure that water was shut off at the campground.
Eel River was actually the only campground with a water supply, which is rare in the area. He said that Hammerhorn Campground was the only other campground with water. That campground burned down during the August Complex fire, which burnt more than a million acres last year.
Aebly stated that he doesn’t think the water supply will last forever. However, how long it lasts depends on whether firefighters are called to an emergency.
In the report, he stated that water will be stored in the storage tank if they aren’t using it. He also said that it’s going to be difficult in the summer.
Aebly anticipates that Eel River will have to start transporting portable water to firefighters in the near term, noting that “it’s not cheap”.
In the report, Aebly said that the site is currently busy during this season. It is mostly being used by those who wish to camp or swim, and migrant agricultural workers. He expects it to remain busy going into the hunting season.
Due to the drought, water sources throughout the state are drying up. This has led to the declaration of drought emergencies for counties such as Mendocino. This is the county’s 13th dryest year in 127 years. 11 households have reported that their wells are now dry.
County supervisors have been considering both short- and long-term solutions to moving water from areas with a healthy supply to those without, including trucking water. Stakeholders emphasized the need for updating the entire state’s water infrastructure and policies during a hearing with North Coast State Senator Mike McGuire.
Isn’t it remarkable to learn about the water shut-off at Eel River campground? Visitors could consider bringing their own water and exploring water conservation methods.
Isn’t it intriguing that campers at Eel River campground will need to bring their water? It’s neat how officials are looking at solutions like portable water tanks to help visitors and firefighting efforts. It’s cool to see them balancing everything during this challenging time!
Pack some extra water as the supply will be limited. It’s all part of conserving water for firefighting efforts during this tough drought. Stay hydrated and be prepared!