In the ever-evolving landscape of water management, the City of Folsom is taking proactive strides towards a more sustainable future with its groundbreaking initiative, Folsom Water Vision. WSC’s integrated team of engineers and strategic communicators kicked off their partnership with the city by launching an interactive engagement process to encourage alignment and guide decision-making. The city is an example of proactive planning and forward thinking.

Understanding Folsom Water Vision

Folsom Water Vision is not just a plan; it’s a comprehensive strategy designed to guide water planning and management for the next half-century. Spearheaded by the City of Folsom, this initiative aims to address the challenges posed by a changing climate, evolving environmental regulations, and the need for long-term water sustainability. By investing in robust planning now, the city is laying the groundwork for a future characterized by water reliability and resilience.

At its core, Folsom Water Vision seeks to evaluate the city’s existing water system and supplies, identify potential risks and vulnerabilities, and recommend system improvements and supply portfolios. This process involves rigorous technical assessments, stakeholder engagement, and the development of adaptable implementation plan.

Who’s Involved in the Planning Process?

Transparency and community engagement are central to the Folsom Water Vision initiative. The city has established various channels for stakeholder participation, including:

• Citizen Stakeholder Working Group (CSGW): Comprising individuals from diverse sectors, the CSGW represents a broad spectrum of community interests and values who have committed to giving their input on this project throughout its lifecycle. Their input will, in part, shape the city’s future water supply portfolio.
• Utility Commission: Serving as an advisory body, the Utility Commission provides recommendations to the City Council on water policy matters.
• Residents & the Public: Opportunities for public participation include attending and providing input at workshops and accessing project updates through the city’s website and newsletters.
• City Council: The council is updated on project milestones and will ultimately approve the plan.

The Folsom Water Vision Process

The Folsom Water Vision project will unfold through a series of carefully crafted steps.

1. Shared Goals & Values: Establish clear objectives for water supply portfolios and system improvements.
2. Evaluate Existing Portfolio: Review current water system and supplies, then assess risks and vulnerabilities in light of established goals.
3. Screen Potential New Supplies: Identify and evaluate alternative water supplies to meet the city’s needs.
4. Develop Future Water Supply Portfolios: Based on available supplies, develop potential water supply portfolios to enhance reliability and resilience.
5. Evaluate Future Water Supply Portfolios: Assess and rank each proposed portfolio to determine the most viable options.
6. Define Recommended Supply Portfolio: Make a preliminary recommendation that aligns with the city’s goals and values.
7. Implementation Plan & Approval: Deliver an actionable plan for implementation.

Stakeholders are invited to be engaged each step of the way through bi-monthly workshops. As we look ahead to the next 50 years, Folsom Water Vision stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to water sustainability and resilience By engaging stakeholders, evaluating options, and charting a course for the future, Folsom is poised to navigate the challenges of tomorrow with confidence. Through collective effort and shared vision, we can build a water future that sustains us all.

For more information and updates on Folsom Water Vision, please visit the city’s website and join us in creating a better water future^® for Folsom.