Phase 2 Sewer Update

The Phase 2 area, combined with Phase 3, is estimated to cost $180 million. Construction for the sewer collection system in portions of Phase 2 will be grant-funded, with planning underway and construction expected to begin sometime in 2025. The construction boundaries will include parts of Country Club, Storey Park, and Sky Harbor.

Project Team

Owner's Representative: NV5
Progressive Design Build Team: West Coast Civil – Finalizing design, conducting a western Joshua tree census, and handling pre-construction permitting activities.

Sukut Construction – Managing the construction schedule and activities once all necessary permits and approvals are obtained.

Grant Funding

The Hi-Desert Water District has been awarded nearly $104 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to expand the sewer collection system. This funding covers:

• Sewer collection pipelines
• Service laterals
• Street paving

Note: Grant funds do not cover private property connections. All funds must be spent before December 31, 2025.

Private Property Connections

Property owners will be notified once the sewer line is complete and will have six months to connect.

Property owners must cover the costs of:

• Connecting to the sewer lateral at the property line
• Decommissioning the septic system
• The average connection cost is around $5,000, though actual costs may vary due to factors such as:
  • Distance to the sewer line
  • Property improvements (driveways, block walls, landscaping)
  • Presence of western Joshua trees
  • Property owners can hire licensed contractors or complete the work themselves if they obtain the necessary permits and inspections.

Permit Information:

• Permits are issued by the Town of Yucca Valley.
• Final inspections are conducted by the Town and Water District.
• See Town of Yucca Valley septic tank abandonment standards (sewerstandar.pdf) for additional details.

Financial Assistance

The District does not have funding for a financial assistance program for private property connections, but the United States Department of Agriculture has the following program:

• Low-income homeowners over age 62 can apply for assistance through the USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program for loans or grants to help with sewer connections.
• Contact: USDA Local Office, 81077 Indio Blvd, Suite A, Indio, CA 92201
• Phone: (760) 347-3675

Monthly Sewer Charges and Fees (Upon Connection)*

Single Family Residential (SFR): $53.25/month ($639 annually)
Multi-Family Residential (MFR): $39.94/month per unit
Mobile Home Property (MHP): $31.95/month per mobile home
Non-Residential Properties: Charges based on monthly water usage

*Note: Connection fees for Phase 2 are yet to be determined and may result in additional charges. The District will establish these fees in a future public board meeting.

Stay Informed

Sign up for Phase 2 Project Updates to receive the latest information on construction schedules, costs, and important deadlines.

For further details, visit the Hi-Desert Water District website or contact the District directly.

Protecting Our Groundwater: 
A Commitment to Sustainability

Groundwater is one of our most precious resources, providing essential water supplies for homes and businesses. At Hi-Desert Water District, we are dedicated to managing and protecting our groundwater resources to ensure a sustainable supply for generations to come. By eliminating septic systems, carefully managing groundwater levels, and strategically importing water from the State Water Project, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard our local water supply.

The Impact of Septic Systems on Groundwater

Septic systems can pose a significant threat to groundwater quality. When not properly maintained, these systems can leak contaminants such as nitrates, bacteria, and household chemicals into the soil, ultimately reaching groundwater sources. To prevent this risk, we built the sewer system in downtown Yucca Valley, where most of our wells are located and are expanding it to allow for the elimination of septic systems. This shift not only protects water quality but also enhances public health and environmental sustainability.

Managing Groundwater Levels for Long-Term Reliability

Sustaining a balanced groundwater level is crucial to preventing over-extraction and land subsidence. Through advanced monitoring and groundwater recharge efforts, we ensure that water is replenished at a rate that meets or exceeds usage. Our district employs innovative technologies to track groundwater conditions and implement conservation measures that help maintain a stable and resilient water supply.

The Role of the State Water Project

To supplement our local water resources, we import water from the State Water Project. This strategic approach reduces stress on groundwater supplies while supporting long-term sustainability. By purchasing imported water, we enhance reliability and improve water quality for our customers.

Our groundwater recharge programs play a vital role in replenishing aquifers.

A Shared Responsibility

Protecting groundwater is a collective effort. We encourage residents and businesses to participate by conserving water, properly disposing of household chemicals, and supporting initiatives that promote water sustainability.

By taking proactive steps today, we can secure a reliable water future for our community. Thank you for partnering with us in our mission to protect and sustain our groundwater resources.

Yucca Valley Elementary School 
Water Field Trip

Second graders at Yucca Valley Elementary School visited the Hi-Desert Water District to learn about water. They danced to a YouTube video explaining the water cycle and became water wizards, learning about condensation. They learned about water conservation, the water system, and groundwater recharge. 

Water Conservation Tips