A Century of Governance, Rights, and Representation

Nearly a century ago, El Dorado County voters took action to secure our water future. In 1925, residents voted to form the El Dorado Irrigation District (EID) under the authority of the Wright Act of 1887.This landmark law gave rural communities like ours the ability to form public agencies dedicated to water management and local control. The decision to form EID laid the foundation for the resilient, community-centered utility we are today.

The Law That Started It All

The Wright Act empowered communities to take control of their water resources. By forming EID, residents replaced unreliable, failing private water systems with a publicly governed agency committed to safe, reliable service. Nearly 100 years later, EID remains locally governed by an elected Board of Directors that is focused on serving our community.

Water Rights: Securing Our Future

Today, EID’s reliable water service is built on water rights secured generations ago—some dating back to the 1850s. Through careful legal strategy, advocacy, and perseverance, EID has protected these essential rights to ensure safe, sustainable water for our community and future generations. Water rights remain a vital part of EID’s long-term water security strategy. Visit our webpage Navigating California Water Rights: A Beginner’s Guide to learn more.

Transparent, Local Leadership

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of public service at EID. Since the Brown Act of 1953, our Board of Directors meetings have been open to the public, meeting agendas are posted in advance, and public participation is welcomed and encouraged. Likewise, Proposition 218 ensures that customers have a voice on rate changes and service decisions, reinforcing our commitment to community-driven governance.

Laws for Environmental Stewardship

Laws like the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guide every project we undertake—from flume replacements to pipeline upgrades and treatment plant improvements. These legal frameworks ensure that our work considers environmental  resources, involves community input, and promotes sustainable operations.

Legal Tools in Times of Crisis

During wildfires, droughts, or other emergencies, legal authority allows us to respond quickly and effectively. Emergency declarations, Board actions, and regulatory flexibility enables EID  to respond quickly to emergencies and protect critical infrastructure, access aid, and restore service under extraordinary conditions.

Federal Partnerships and Local Benefits

EID operates the El Dorado Hydroelectric Project under Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) License 184—a legal achievement and long-term federal partnership that supports water storage and supply, clean energy production, watershed management, and environmental compliance. The 1999 purchase of this project remains a milestone that continues to benefit our entire community.

Looking Ahead: Policy, Resilience, and Representation

As we look to the next century, evolving laws, court decisions, and policies will continue to shape our operations. EID remains actively engaged at the state and federal levels—advocating for policies that safeguard water rights, promote reliability, and protect the resources our community depends on.