Water Conservation and Efficiency
Your Water Supply
Water Use Efficiency 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.
Statewide drinking water reservoirs are at average levels and there is currently no water shortage anticipated in 2025. However, the winter forecast calls for below-average precipitation for much of the state and 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. For decades, the amount of water taken from the river has exceeded the amount of rainfall and snow melt that refills the river system, gradually lowering available water supplies. 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 distribution system of recycled water used for irrigation, and exploring the possibility of building a brackish groundwater desalination facility for a potable water supply. OMWD also indirectly benefits from water produced at the Claude “Bud” Lewis 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.
Water Use Efficiency Regulations
California’s State Water Resources Control Board has adopted water use efficiency regulations. The new rules will affect how much water OMWD can provide customers. The regulations do not consider available water supplies and limits will be in effect whether it’s a wet or dry year. The water use limitations become more restrictive over time and OMWD does not anticipate an immediate impact to our customers. In the future, additional efficiency measures may be necessary to maintain compliance.
- Learn more about the regulations, and how they 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.
View the concerns that OMWD has expressed to the SWRCB:
- OMWD concerns, June 2024
- OMWD concerns, May 2024
- OMWD concerns, March 2024
- OMWD concerns, October 2023
- OMWD concerns, March 2023
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
Article 10, section 2 of the California Constitution declares that waters of the state are to be put to beneficial use, that waste, unreasonable use, or unreasonable method of use of water be prevented, and that water be conserved for the public welfare. 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.
