News

County Named Recycled Water Customer of the Year

The WateReuse Association of California recognized County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation as a 2020 Recycled Water Customer of the Year today. The award was presented at WateReuse’s first virtual conference. Olivenhain Municipal Water District nominated the County for its dedication to using sustainable recycled water to irrigate County parks in OMWD’s service area.

Since 2001, OMWD and the County have worked closely to ensure that parks in the 4S Ranch area of San Diego County safely and efficiently utilize drought-resistant recycled water for irrigation. Using recycled water at the six parks served by OMWD provides green recreational spaces year-round and reduces potable water demand by an average of 71.6 acre-feet per year. An acre-foot is enough water to supply the annual water needs of two families of four.

“OMWD congratulates the County on being named a WateReuse Association Recycled Water Customer of the Year,” said OMWD’s Board Secretary Bob Kephart. “Healthy park landscapes made possible by locally produced recycled water enhance the quality of life for visitors of all ages.”

The County hosts hundreds of events every year, and daily programs designed to enrich the lives of all patrons place a special focus on families, seniors, people with disabilities, and at-risk youth. OMWD collaborates with the County on community events near its 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility, where community members learn about the value of recycled water.

“I am proud that the County’s 4S team is being honored for their dedication to using recycled water and conserving potable water, thereby keeping our parks looking great in a sustainable way!” said County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation Regional Manager Jessica Cissel. “OMWD has been easy to work with in supporting our efforts, and we appreciate the partnership.”

The County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation strives to improve the quality of life for County residents and visitors, promoting health and wellness, safe communities, and civic pride. The County’s award-winning park system features more than 100 locations across 50,000 acres of land, including 36 local day-use parks, 19 regional parks, nine camping parks, open space preserves, and registered historic sites.

Formed in 1990, the WateReuse Association is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance the beneficial and efficient uses of high quality, locally produced, sustainable water sources for the betterment of society and the environment through advocacy, education and outreach, research, and membership.

Patriot Park is one of six County parks utilizing recycled water produced at OMWD’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility