SAN JOSE — Some residents may be noticing an earthy smell in their tap water. Please be assured that this temporary odor, which is caused by geosmin, a naturally occurring compound produced by algae in water sources, is not a health concern. 

Valley Water has reached two major regulatory milestones that keep the Anderson Dam Seismic Retrofit Project on schedule to begin construction in January 2027.

California businesses will soon be affected by new statewide rules on outdoor water use. Assembly Bill 1572 (AB 1572) will prohibit the use of potable (drinking) water to irrigate non-functional turf-grass areas that are not regularly used for recreation, gatherings, or other community activities.

Valley Water has reached an important milestone in its efforts to create a more reliable, drought-resilient water supply for Santa Clara County. On June 9, 2026, the Valley Water Board of Directors selected a design consultant for the Pure Water Silicon Valley Demonstration Facility Project. 

Santa Clara County’s water system is aging, and major upgrades are underway across the region to prepare for future droughts, climate challenges, and growing water needs.

By Nai Hsueh, Director, Valley Water