Free home water assessments available to eligible homeowners and renters through end of year
SALINAS VALLEY — Salinas Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency announced Sept. 9 that its Water Efficiency Pilot Program for Rural Residents has expanded to all six subbasins under the agency’s purview, offering free home water efficiency assessments through the end of 2026.
The expansion builds on the program’s work helping homeowners in northern Monterey County over the past year.
“This program supports homeowners and renters by providing personalized recommendations and free devices to help households save money, energy and water,” said Piret Harmon, general manager of SVBGSA. “The program is one part of the larger efforts by SVBGSA to support the long-term health of groundwater in the Salinas Valley.”
The Water Efficiency Pilot Program for Rural Residents, known as WEPP, is available to rural residents who own or rent homes in the Salinas Valley. Assessments are conducted by WaterWise Consulting Inc. and include on-site evaluations of indoor and outdoor water use.
Trained staff will check for leaks, review irrigation systems, and evaluate plumbing fixtures and appliances. Residents will receive a detailed report with personalized recommendations. In some cases, water-saving devices will be purchased and installed at no cost to the homeowner.