Most Californians expect water to flow from their taps without interruption, but this service relies on a network of operators regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). The CPUC oversees more than 90 investor-owned water utilities throughout the state, many of which are small systems serving rural and remote areas.
Meadow Valley Water Works (MVWW), located in Plumas County, is one such system. Last month, the Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement Program team from the CPUC’s Water Division conducted a site inspection at MVWW. The visit provided insight into the unique challenges faced by small utilities.
MVWW serves 14 customers and is notable for being one of only two water systems in California still using “miner’s inch” as a measurement unit. This method, dating back to the early 1900s Gold Rush Era, controls water flow through wooden boards with fixed openings. Bob Dean, MVWW’s current owner and operator, took over the system several years ago and continues to learn while meeting his community’s needs.
Through CPUC programs, Dean has gained access to important resources for maintaining operations. He manually diverts water for irrigation customers using a mechanical gate—a process that reflects both tradition and necessity.
Small systems like MVWW provide essential services where larger utilities do not operate. If larger entities were required to serve these remote communities, infrastructure costs would likely be passed on to existing customers through higher rates. Oversight and support from the CPUC help keep water affordable while ensuring safety and reliability for all Californians.
“When we invest in small systems, we invest in resilience, equity, and the well-being of every Californian, no matter where they live,” said Taseen Shamim, Public Information Officer.
More information about small water systems can be found on the CPUC’s Water Division webpage: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/about-cpuc/divisions/water-division
