Water Conservation

Pinole Creek Watershed

The Pinole Creek Watershed covers approximately 15 square miles in the north-west part of Contra Costa County. The watershed includes portions of the cities of Pinole and Hercules as well as unincorporated areas such as the EBMUD Pinole Valley property and sections of El Sobrante and the Briones Agricultural Preserve.

Pinole Creek is a perennial stream that drains a 9705-acre watershed in western Contra Costa County. The creek is an important feature f the City of Pinole, and the city government is closely involved with the work of organizations such as the Friends of Pinole Creek, County Flood Control, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to restore the creek through the center of town.

The Pinole Creek Watershed is lightly developed compared to other watersheds in Contra Costa County. One reason for this is that a drinking water reservoir was at one time planned for construction in the center of the watershed. The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) purchased thousands of acres of land in the area to account for this possibility but plans for the new reservoir were ultimately set aside. However, the public watershed land remains and continues to be managed by EBMUD.

The Pinole Creek Watershed unifies a diverse community that is actively involved in its stewardship and Pinole Creek is a central feature of the landscape. Creek-side trails link parks, schools, and neighborhoods. The riparian habitat and clean waters are home to diverse species including a native steelhead trout population.

Contra Costa Clean Water Program

The Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP) was established in 1991 in response to the federal stormwater regulations.  The CCCWP comprises Contra Costa County, its 19 cities/towns, and the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (collectively referred to as Permittees).  Contra Costa County is within the jurisdiction of two Water Boards – San Francisco Bay Water Board and the Central Valley Water Board. The City of Pinole works with the Contra Costa Clean Water Program to focus attention on achieving improvements to the overall health of our water systems.

Save Water

Pinole residents receive water from the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD). EBMUD offers incentives, tools, and resources to help customers reduce water use here and finance efficiency upgrades. A few WaterSmart tips that save water and money include:

• Only run full loads of laundry and dishes
• Turn on the tap only when you need to rinse; don’t let water run unnecessarily when you brush your teeth, lather up, shave, or wash dishes
• Take a shorter shower
• Adjust your watering schedule: turn off irrigation in the winter and only water manually if absolutely necessary. During the growing season, irrigate early or later in the day (before 10am or after 7pm).
• Wash your car with a bucket and sponge instead of a hose
• Cover your pool to reduce evaporation

Pesticide Use

Through our partnership with Contra Costa County Clean Water Program, information about pesticide use can be found here:

Pinole Creek Watershed Organizations