GCSD NEWS
Current Board Meeting
Our next regular board meeting will be held June 6th, 2013 at 10:00am at the District Office.
Vacant GCSD Board of Directors Seat
Winterizing Your Home
As we move closer to winter, we need to pay particular attention to our home water systems. In early December 2009, our community experienced a cold snap that produced over 75 water line breaks in less than 48 hours. This resulted in the loss of over 3 million gallons of water. Virtually all the water line breaks were on the customer’s side of the water meter. Please don’t let this happen to you!
These breaks are wasteful and expensive, but more importantly they are preventable. First, if you haven’t done it yet this year, you should have your pressure regulator checked by a plumber. This should be an annual homeowner task. With the mountainous topography that makes our area beautiful comes the risk of water pressure fluctuations. The valve is usually located where the water service enters the house and protects your water pipes and appliances from high water pressure.
If you live off the hill and don’t make it up to Groveland much during the fall and winter months, you should always make sure that your water is turned off at the master valve when you are away. This is generally located where the water pipe enters the house. Better yet, have a valve installed on your side of your water meter. After closing your master valve, open a water tap (preferably the lowest one in your home) and drain the water from the pipes so that water doesn’t freeze and break a pipe inside your home. Finally, drain your irrigation system. Many of the water line breaks were in drip irrigation systems that froze and ruptured.
* Please remember that anything that occurs on your side of the water meter is your responsibility.
Woodstoves and Fireplaces
The Groveland Fire Department recommends having your woodstove/fireplace and flue inspected by a certified chimney sweep professional at least once a year. This reduces the chance of a flue fire and assures that the woodstove, piping, flue cap, and screen are all in good working order and bricks and mortar are in good repair. To prevent flue fires homeowners should burn small, hot fires using seasoned firewood with a good draft and plenty of airflow.
If a flue fire starts call 9-1-1 so the fire department can quickly respond to put out the fire and check for any extensions of the fire in the attic or on the roof. Make sure to get everyone out of the house and keep all a safe distance away. Once the fire is completely out call a professional to inspect, clean, and service the flue and assess the damage before using the woodstove/fireplace again.
TIP: Throw a glass of water directly on the fire, it will flash into steam, rise up in the flue, inhibit oxygen, and snuff out the fire. In addition, turn down the air damper on the front of the stove and close the woodstove/fireplace doors. This will help keep the fire in the flue and in most cases put the fire out.
Presentation from Special Board Meeting August 9, 2012:
South County Ambulance Tax
The current Groveland Ambulance Tax sunsets on June 30, 2012. There will be a public information meeting August 16, 2012 at 6 pm in the Groveland Community Hall. Flyer
CAL Fire's Fire Tax
Many feel this tax is unfair or even illegal. Citizens can make a difference. Flyer
Irrigation Systems
Just a friendly reminder that warm weather is coming, so please examine and test your irrigation system for leaks and timer troubles. The freezing weather and power outages may have damaged your tubing, batteries and electronics.
Fats, Oil, and Grease Prevention Program
Protect our environment and keep drains clear. learn more
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days flyer
Sonora - Sat., Sept. 8 - Call for Appointment 1-800-811-2435