Protecting the Napa River

Before the NapaSan began serving the community in 1945, untreated sewage and stormwater drained together to the Napa River. A growing population in Napa increased the pressure on the river, and the pollution from sewage created a health hazard and resulted in fish kills.

Since its founding, protection of the Napa River has been central to the mission of NapaSan. Wastewater is treated to secondary standards, making it safe for river discharge during the wet season (November 1 to April 30 annually). During the dry season, wastewater is recycled and used to irrigate landscaping, vineyards, golf courses and pastureland.

In addition to providing high quality wastewater treatment to protect the Napa River, NapaSan also contributes to river protection through the following activities:

Fish Friendly Farming:

This program, administered by the California Land Stewardship Institute evaluates and guides land management practices to protect water quality and fish habitat. NapaSan developed Farm Conservation Plans to allow properties owned by NapaSan to receive Fish Friendly Farming certification in 2013.

Watershed Information and Conservation Council of Napa County:

NapaSan is a member of the Watershed Information and Conservation Council (WICC), which guides and supports community efforts to maintain and improve the health of Napa County’s watershed lands. NapaSan maintains a listing on the WICC website to educate the community about education opportunities and resources we provide.