Water Conservation and Efficiency
California Water Supply 2024
Proposed Regulations
Water-Saving Programs
Education & Outreach Programs
Water Waste
Learn More
OMWD’s potable water is imported from two major sources: the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta via California’s State Water Project, and the Colorado River.
Above-average levels of rain and snow have filled statewide drinking water reservoirs and there are currently no water shortages anticipated in 2024. However, while the state is currently benefiting from the wet winters, it is a matter of time before dry conditions return.
The Colorado River is an important source of water for 40 million people in two countries and seven states. The amount of water taken from the river has exceeded available supplies for decades. As a result, reservoirs along the river that support Southern California, such as Lake Mead, are now at low levels.
OMWD continues to diversify our water supply sources to reduce our reliance on imported drinking water. Several projects are underway in our service area to become more drought-resilient. These include expanding our recycled water distribution system and exploring the possibility of building a brackish groundwater desalination facility. OMWD also indirectly benefits from water produced at the Carlsbad Desalination Plant.
While there currently is no water shortage, OMWD remains in Level 1 of its Water Shortage Contingency Plan and asks customers to follow several voluntary measures to reduce water waste.
California’s State Water Resources Control Board is developing water use efficiency regulations. The new rules will affect how much water OMWD can provide customers. The proposed regulations do not consider available water supplies. Limits would be in effect whether it’s a wet or dry year. Further, the rules could have an impact on water rates. What can OMWD customers do to stay informed?
- Learn more about the proposed regulations, and how they may impact you.
- View the Legislative Analyst’s Office’s recently issued report about the cost and impacts on lower-income ratepayers and the feasibility of the regulations.
- Provide your feedback to SWRCB at commentletters@waterboards.ca.gov.
OMWD is working with the SWRCB so that the regulations make sense for OMWD customers. View the concerns that OMWD has expressed to the SWRCB:
FREE Water Use Evaluations
Take advantage of our water use evaluation service to help you save both water and money. OMWD offers this service free of charge to promote water use efficiency.
My Water Use
The My Water Use digital dashboard is designed to give you easy access to timely information about your water usage.
Rebates
Save money on improvements at your home or business by applying for rebates on water-saving devices and landscape transformations.
California-Friendly Demonstration Garden
Located at OMWD headquarters, our garden provides tangible examples of water‐efficient landscaping techniques that can save water and money.
Workshops and Tours
Learn more about efficient water use and the value of water at one of our free workshops or tours.
WaterSmart Landscape Contest
Inspire others to conserve by showing off your water-efficient yard in our annual WaterSmart Landscape Contest.
San Diego Sustainable Landscapes Program
The program is a resource to assist San Diego County residents in adopting sustainable landscaping best practices through education and training, technical assistance, and landscaping materials.
School Programs
OMWD believes in educating the next generation about the value of water.
Report Water Waste
Let us know if you see water being wasted in the community by submitting a water waste report form or calling 760-632-4641. Please note that leak emergencies should be reported to our main line by calling 760-753-6466.
High Consumption & Leaks
Have you received an unusually high bill, or do you suspect you may have a leak? Learn how to check for leaks, troubleshoot high water use, and other helpful tips.
Stormwater Pollution
Help protect our waterways by reporting stormwater pollution to the appropriate jurisdiction.
Landscaping Tips
70 percent or more of residential water use in our area goes to landscape irrigation. One of the biggest ways to make an impact on your water use is to improve irrigation efficiency. OMWD has some great tips to get you started.
Graywater Reuse
Learn how the average household can save up to 12,000 gallons of water a year by using the same water that washed your clothes to water your landscape.
Conservation Resources
We have created a list of conservation topics meant to inform and inspire those looking to reduce their water use.
Water Conservation Practices
OMWD is currently in Level 1 of its Water Shortage Contingency Plan, meaning that customers are encouraged to follow several voluntary measures to use water efficiently.
