California American water has pulled out of monterey county’s regional desalination project, putting an end to a long and controversial proposal. The desal plant was proposed to be a partnership between cal-am water, monterey county, and the marina coast water district. The plant would be used to reduce pumping from the carmel river, and as a backup in drought conditions. Cal-Am spokesmen said they would no longer pursue the project, but the utility is looking at alternatives. A hearing with the state public utility commission is scheduled for January 24th.
