El Dorado Water Agency Overview

The story of water management in El Dorado County dates back to the 1850s, when early settlers arrived in search of gold. Aptly named after the “hills of gold,” the El Dorado Water Agency was authorized by the 1959 El Dorado County Water Agency Act and created in the same year. EDWA has handled long-term water resources planning for the county’s diverse communities since its creation, ensuring there is adequate water to serve its multiple needs now and in the future. The agency is responsible for producing hydroelectric energy; controlling flood and stormwater; storing, conserving and managing water resources; and procuring additional water.

The agency cooperates with these local water purveyors: the City of Placerville, El Dorado Irrigation District, Georgetown Divide Public Utility District, Grizzly Flats Community Services District, South Tahoe Public Utility District, and the Tahoe City Public Utility District. EDWA cooperates with other federal, state and local agencies to carry out its responsibilities.

Its oversight body is the board of directors, which is comprised of three representatives from the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors and two representatives from regional water districts. Its members meet monthly; see the meetings and minutes page for details.  Click here to sign up for email notifications.