Just 30 miles south of Silicon Valley, Pescadero residents were found to have water systems classified as failing or at risk of failing, according to a recent Mercury News article.

Citizens of Pescadero have turned to collecting rain and creek water in tupperware to avoid the town’s unsafe water conditions. Many residents also rely on domestic wells, which are rarely tested for unsafe conditions.

What’s the impact?

This does not just impact individuals’ health — it also creates issues with functioning washing machines, toilets, and bathing. These are basic human necessities. Further, when San Mateo County was planning to increase water rates, they faced many complaints from Pescadero citizens. With an average income of 40,000 and some estimates being even lower, Pescadero residents would not be able to afford rising rates, especially as they struggled to get by without clean water.

A familiar story…

In an earlier blog about East and West Palo Alto, I noted that “It saddens me to see how these neighboring towns did little to support East Palo Alto during its years of intense crime and struggle, especially given the resources they, as well as their residents, possess.”

While Pescadero is in a different situation, I find the same still rings true. The idea of one town struggling to get by without clean water just right next to one of the most affluent areas in the world disheartens me. I recommend keeping an eye on Pescadero over time, and am hopeful that their situation can be resolved with state and local resources.