With California’s official water year (Oct. 1 to Sept. 30) in the books, officials say the state is likely to continue its dry spell. The past three years have been the driest on record.

Scientists say it would take multiple winter storms to help bring California out of its ongoing drought. Snowfall typically provides a third of the state’s water supply.

Old Infrastructure Blamed for E. Coli Outbreak in Baltimore

A recent E. coli water contamination in Baltimore has been attributed to old infrastructure, according to The Daily Record.

An official from the city’s Department of Public Works says issues in multiple parts of the water system led to a reduction in chlorine levels, causing three positive tests for E. coli. A large part of Baltimore was under a boil water advisory during the contamination in early September.

Arizona Governor Appoints Members to New Water Infrastructure Board

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey recently announced four appointments to a new board charged with overseeing a plan to secure Arizona’s water future. 

The Water Infrastructure Finance Authority board was established this year with Ducey’s signing of water legislation, which took effect Sept. 24.

“We passed the most significant water legislation in 40 years this year in partnership with our legislative leaders,” says Ducey. “Now, with the right team, we’re positioned with $1.4 billion to secure our state’s water future for the next 100 years. The board members of the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority will be important stewards of our water resources, pursuing innovative augmentation and conservation projects.”

The four appointees are David Beckham, Buchanan Davis, Jonathan Lines and Andy Tobin.