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Category Archives: News Release

Regional Water Use Drops 19 Percent in October Despite Extreme Heat

Urban potable water use in the San Diego region decreased by 19 percent in October compared to October 2013 despite record-setting heat, according to preliminary data released today by the San Diego County Water Authority. It was the fifth consecutive month of major regional water-use reductions since state mandates started in June.

From June through October, regional water consumption dropped by 26 percent compared to the state’s baseline period in 2013, beating the regional aggregate target of 20 percent.

Weekend Storm Means Irrigation Systems Must be Turned Off

A record-breaking tropical rainstorm over the weekend has triggered state and local requirements to turn off irrigation systems. By state law, it’s illegal to irrigate landscapes during measurable rainfall and for 48 hours afterward. As a practical matter, irrigation systems can be left off for much longer after the significant rain that drenched San Diego County on Saturday and Sunday.

Water Authority Responds to Release of New Bay-Delta Documents

“The future of the Bay-Delta is important to all Californians, as is the strategy that the state adopts to address the Bay-Delta’s many costly and complex environmental and water supply challenges. The Water Authority will review the new set of California WaterFix documents and likely provide formal comments in keeping with our longstanding efforts to promote viable and cost-effective solutions in the Bay-Delta.

Turn Off Irrigation Systems During, After Thunderstorm

A thunderstorm soaking many parts of San Diego County this afternoon means residents and businesses must turn off their irrigation systems for at least 48 hours after the rain ends. By state law, it’s illegal to irrigate landscapes during measurable rainfall and for 48 hours afterward. As a practical matter, irrigation systems can be left off for much longer after a significant rain event.

Carlsbad Desalination Project Crews Complete Construction of 10-Mile Pipeline

After more than two years of work, Carlsbad Desalination Project crews installed the final segment of the 10-mile conveyance pipeline that connects the Carlsbad Desalination Plant to the San Diego County Water Authority’s regional water distribution system. Construction crews lowered the final piece of pipe – No. 2177 – into Macario Canyon in Carlsbad this morning, completing a major element of the historic project.

Water Authority Adopts $1.5 Billion Budget for Fiscal Years 2016 and 2017

The San Diego County Water Authority’s Board of Directors today adopted a $1.5 billion budget for fiscal years 2016 and 2017, up 2 percent from the current two-year budget due largely to higher costs for the purchase and treatment of water. The Board also adopted rate increases for 2016 of 6.6 percent for untreated water and 5.4 percent for treated water; actual increases will vary among the Water Authority’s 24 member agencies based on differing circumstances among the agencies.