Gualala Community Services District (GCSD)

The Gualala Community Services District (GCSD) is committed to protecting public health and preserving the environment in the southern section of Mendocino County through the provision of safe, reliable, and efficient wastewater collection, treatment, and water reclamation services. Established in 1986 with the approval of the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and the County of Mendocino, GCSD was formed to serve our community with a steadfast dedication to sustainability and public well-being.

In 1992, the GCSD Wastewater Treatment Facility was completed, marking a significant milestone in our mission to ensure the highest standards of wastewater management. Currently, GCSD receives its wastewater from the town of Gualala and from the Sea Ranch North pumping facility, which is owned and operated by Sonoma Water, a division of Sonoma County. Wastewater from the Sea Ranch North community is treated to a primary level (screening and aeration) prior to being pumped through a one mile force main to the GCSD WWTF where it is comingled with wastewater from the community of Gualala prior to treatment. This wastewater is treated to a tertiary level—a rigorous process that includes secondary treatment, filtration, and disinfection—to meet the stringent standards required by the State Water Resources Control Board. The treated recycled water is then used for irrigation on the Sea Ranch Golf Links (SRGL), contributing to the responsible and sustainable use of our natural resources.

GCSD, Sonoma Water, and the SRGL form what is known locally as the Tri-Party. The Tri-Party was formed to continuously uphold the highest standards in wastewater management, safeguarding public health, protecting our environment, and contributing to the sustainable growth and well-being of our respected communities.

GCSD also maintains the collection system within the town of Gualala, which is uniquely designed to suit the needs of our community. Unlike traditional systems, each residence within the system is equipped with a septic tank that does not have leach lines. Instead, the effluent is either pumped from the septic tank or gravities to the main lines of the collection system. The raw wastewater then travels through various lift stations before arriving at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, where it undergoes tertiary treatment to meet Title 22 requirements. This advanced treatment process ensures that the water is safe for irrigation and supports the environmental stewardship of the Sea Ranch Golf Links.

Mendocino County Waterworks District 2 (MCWD2)

Mendocino County Waterworks District 2 was originally established as a division of Mendocino County, responsible for managing wastewater collection and treatment services for the community of Anchor Bay. Its early operations were part of the county’s broader efforts to provide essential public utilities in the area.

In the late 1980s, the county and LAFCO approved the transition into a special district, granting greater local control and oversight. This restructuring led to the formation special sewer district, which consists of a five-person board elected from the local community. The board now manages the district’s operations, ensuring that their wastewater services meet the needs of the population while adhering to environmental regulations.

The creation of this special district allowed for more localized decision-making, enabling the board to focus on issues specific to the community of Anchor Bay, such as conservation, sustainable practices, and infrastructure maintenance. Today, Mendocino County Waterworks District 2 operates under the guidance of this board, continuing to play a vital role in managing the region's wastewater services.

Our mission at the Mendocino County Water District Number 2 is to safeguard the integrity of the environment and honor the ancestral heritage of the Anchor Bay area. We are committed to providing reliable wastewater collection and treatment services that protect public health while respecting the rights and interests of individuals and the community. Through transparency and integrity, we strive to foster engagement among all district stakeholders, ensuring that our improvements are sustainable, equitable, and affordable.

We value the preservation of our natural environment and the rich cultural heritage of our community. Our commitment to transparency and integrity guides our actions as we work collaboratively with stakeholders. We prioritize public health and environmental stewardship, while honoring the rights of individuals and the collective well-being of our community. We are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring our services are accessible and affordable for all residents of Anchor Bay.

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