The Santa Ynez Reservoir in the Palisades is once again dry, causing concern among residents as wildfire season approaches.
The reservoir, which stores drinking water for the area, is undergoing a $19.5-million project to replace its damaged floating cover. The Department of Water and Power (DWP) initiated this project to ensure compliance with state and federal water quality regulations.
Residents, however, are worried about the lack of available water to combat potential wildfires. The reservoir was empty during the 2025 Palisades fire, which destroyed nearly 7,000 structures and resulted in 12 fatalities. Maryam Zar, head of the Palisades Recovery Coalition, expressed frustration, saying, “It’s a failure to recognize that there is value to this community to have the reservoir full.”
DWP Chief Operating Officer Anselmo Collins acknowledged the community’s concerns and stated that aerial firefighting water sources would remain available from nearby open-air reservoirs. Collins explained that the reservoir must be drained to replace the cover, which spans roughly 10 acres. He also mentioned that six miles of water piping from another facility would be added as a backup measure.
Despite criticisms, a state report concluded that even a full reservoir wouldn’t have provided enough water to prevent disaster during the 2025 fire. However, some residents remain skeptical about the effectiveness of the new cover and are concerned about the upcoming fire season.
The reservoir is expected to return to service by fall.
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