Hurvitz Environmental Services Inc.

03/03/2026

Water is Local. 💧

Regional models are great for policy, but they don't always reflect the ground truth of a specific site.

Spent the day diving into the local hydrology of this watershed. After over 20 years as a PG/CHG in Norcal, I've learned that the most durable decisions are the ones grounded in site specific data, not just regional averages.

Next stop" Santa Rosa GSA meeting on March 12.

01/16/2026

Pond sediment sampling in Mendocino County.
This project came with real site challenges like boats, balance, soft sediments, and a lot of problem solving.

09/25/2025

🌊🐟Out on Tomales Bay chasing Halibut... but always thinking about water.

Fishing trips like this are a reminder that California's watershed don't just sustain us on land. They shape entire ecosystems and economies, from agriculture to recreation and fishing.

Hydrology isn't just about aquifer and regulations - its about how all these systems connect. The same surface water/ groundwater balance that matters for vineyards, and rural developments also affects the estuaries where species like Halibut live.

💧Water is Local. Know your Watershed.

09/25/2025

Last month, I worked with a buyer who was about to close on a rural parcel. On paper it looked perfect. In reality, the well could barely produce 1 gallon per minute. That deal could have turned into a disaster — but because we tested early, they avoided a six-figure mistake. This is why I offer due diligence packages...

Before you buy land in Sonoma/Napa/Mendocino, ask these 3 water questions:
1️⃣ What’s the sustainable yield of the well?
2️⃣ Is the water quality safe and reliable?
3️⃣ Are there regulatory restrictions on groundwater use?
At HES, our Due Diligence Packages answer all three with data and professional analysis.

In today’s market, rural real estate deals are moving fast — but water is often the biggest unknown. My goal is to make sure realtors and buyers have the facts before they close. That’s why I’ve put together clear, cost-effective water due diligence packages.

💧Water is Local, Know your Property

07/02/2025

Dry season is coming!

In Sonoma County, the official dry season starts July 15 — and if you rely on a well, that date matters more than you think.

Planning a new build? Selling property? Trying to finalize a permit?
Most agencies require well yield testing during the dry season — when groundwater levels are at their lowest. And If you wait too long, you risk missing the window and delaying your project until next year.

We do certified well yield testing across Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino Counties, with quick turnaround and clear, defensible reporting.

If you’re not sure what’s required, or you’ve got a property in play this summer, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to talk it through.

Environmental & Hydrogeologic Consulting

Water testing - Soil sampling - Hydrology - Permitting

06/10/2025

Buying Rural Land? Don’t Skip This Step.

Thinking about building your dream home on rural land? 🏡
Before you break ground, make sure your property has sustainable water access.

Many buyers assume a well means “problem solved”—but flow rate, water quality, and regulatory compliance can make or break your plans.

As a California-licensed hydrogeologist, I help landowners and developers de-risk their investments with pre-purchase water assessments and feasibility studies.

💡 Pro tip: A $2,500 site evaluation today could save you from a $250K mistake.

Reach out for details.

05/28/2025

Perfect day to enjoy the trails and views along the Russian River.

05/25/2025

Standing on the Pacific Plate looking at South Beach from the Point Reyes Lighhouse trail.

05/15/2025

Don't Let Water Woes Catch you by Surprise.

💧 Many property owners are surprised when their well slows down—or fails altogether. But wells don’t just “go dry” out of nowhere. In most cases, there are early signs.

As a California-certified hydrogeologist, I help homeowners, developers, and land managers assess groundwater conditions before it’s an emergency.

✅ Need a flow test?
✅ Wondering if your well meets permitting requirements?
✅ Building on a rural lot?

Let’s talk before the dry season hits you hard.

Call us, or visit www.hurvitzenvironmental.com to schedule a consult.

04/08/2025

We checked out the former house and current lanslide in Forestville today.

03/29/2025

Soil testing for fire related toxins is quick and relatively inexpensive, so if your concerned about FEMA's no testing requirmenets and the potential hazardous conditions at your property, then we can help you.

Rebuilding in Altadena and Pacific Palisades has begun, despite the lack of official requirements to test soil for heavy metals and other toxic substances.