Vallecitos Water District achieves significant cost savings with LG Sonic ultrasound

The Vallecitos Water District (VWD) has gained significant benefits since deploying LG Sonic’s MPC-Buoy ultrasonic algae control solution in two of their reservoirs – Mahr Reservoir and South Lake. As a customer since 2018, VWD has experienced substantial cost savings, eliminated the need for additional chemical treatments, and received two prestigious industry awards for improving water quality with the use of MPC-Buoy

We have not needed to apply any chemicals to either reservoir since the addition of the MPC-Buoys. – Ed Pedrazzi, Operations & Maintenance Manager

Saving money and the environment

In 2018, the Vallecitos Water District (VWD) strategically adopted LG Sonic’s MPC-Buoy ultrasonic algae control technology in two of their reservoirs – Mahr Reservoir and South Lake. The solar-powered, eco-friendly MPC-Buoy uses ultrasonic sound waves to control the growth of harmful algae blooms, reducing reliance on chemical treatments.

Ed Pedrazzi, Operations & Maintenance Manager at VWD, highlighted the cost-saving benefits resulting from the MPC-Buoy installations. At Mahr Reservoir, HABs dissapeared within 2 weeks of deploying the MPC-Buoy. Hence, VWD saved $25,000 annually, totaling $177,615 over 7 years, with an ROI in 2.5 years.  Now, the reservoir has completely halted the use of copper sulfate for water treatment.

At South Lake, algae control led to $84,354 in savings and a 5-year ROI, while maintaining chemical-free, safe water for recreation.

Results

Data from 2024 collected via MPC-View, show that chlorophyll-a concentrations stabilized after an early steep decline. By mid-September, chlorophyll dropped to approximately 8.88 µg/L, reflecting an early-season improvement in water quality. Levels remained low through December, indicating sustained control of algal growth.

Data from 2024, collected via MPC-View, show that chlorophyll-a levels remained low throughout the monitoring period. Levels declined steadily, reaching 5.48 µg/L by late June. Minimal fluctuations from mid-year to December indicate limited bloom activity and effective control.

Redefining reservoir management

Low TSS levels are essential for modern irrigation systems. Since 2018, both reservoirs have operated fully chemical-free, with improved TSS, pH, and dissolved oxygen levels. This has led to lower maintenance, higher water quality, and recognition for award-winning innovation in sustainable reservoir management.

Greg Eiffert, Director of LG Sonic US, expressed his satisfaction with the project’s outcome, stating, “We’re thrilled to see the positive impact our MPC-Buoy technology has had on Vallecitos Water District’s reservoirs, demonstrating its potential to transform the water industry.”

Excellence in innovation

The successful deployment of LG Sonic’s MPC-Buoy in Mahr Reservoir and South Lake has earned Vallecitos Water District two prestigious industry awards for improving water quality. These accolades include the ‘Excellence in Innovation and Resiliency Award’ from the California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA) and the ‘Excellence in Action’ award from the WateReuse Association.

By utilizing LG Sonic’s MPC-Buoy systems the Vallecitos Water District has not only saved money on chemical treatments and lake management services but also demonstrated a commitment to sustainable reservoir management practices. The industry recognition and cost savings underscore the potential of this technology to significantly enhance water quality and operational efficiency for water utilities worldwide.