BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 Bakersfield residents rely on two main sources for their water: groundwater and the Kern River. Before either reaches a tap, it goes through an extensive treatment process designed to meet safety standards year-round.<\/p>\n
Communities like Arvin have previously dealt with contaminated groundwater. Raul Barraza, the Arvin Community Service District general manager, said new wells have made a significant difference.<\/p>\n
“Being able to drink out of the tap that provide clean drinking water to the community is you know God sent,” Barraza said.<\/p>\n
At the Northwest Bakersfield Water Treatment Plant, Kern River water is processed before it reaches residents. Donald Fowler, a manager at the plant, said the treatment begins with pre-treatment barriers that remove iron and manganese, followed by filters that clear out organisms and particles.<\/p>\n
“Inspections and testings are daily. We do it everyday at this plant to ensure that we meet the guidelines 365 days of the year,” Fowler said.<\/p>\n
After several rounds of filtering and testing, the water is stored in a 3-million-gallon tank before being delivered to customers.<\/p>\n
Gary Witcher, a California Water Services operations manager, said the mission is straightforward.<\/p>\n
“The whole purpose is to maintain a safe supply of drinking water for the residents and the community,” Witcher said.<\/p>\n
Witcher said it is an honor to serve the community that raised him and to give back one of the most essential resources \u2014 clean water.<\/p>\n
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/p>\n
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