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Bluewater Grill Executive Chief Albert Serrano with the CNSRV defrosting unit at his Carlsbad restaurant. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

New Water Saving Innovation Embraced By San Diego Chef

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Restaurants are among the businesses most dependent on a safe, reliable water supply as significant consumers of water. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates restaurants account for about 15% of total water use in the commercial and institutional sector.

Dylan Wolff grew up in Southern California, understanding the need to conserve water. He learned a shocking fact about water use in restaurants from a friend.

“He said, ‘Dyl, we’re not serving the drinking water, but in the back of house, in the kitchen, we’re running the faucet for eight to 10 hours a day, defrosting our frozen food.’ Wow. I had no idea, right?” recalls Wolff.

A typical sit-down restaurant uses between 3,000 and 7,000 gallons of water daily. A single restaurant can use between 25,000 to over 300,000 gallons of water per year. Roughly 84% of water in a restaurant is used in the kitchen and bathrooms.

A typical restaurant like the Bluewater Grill in Carlsbad can use between 25,000 to over 300,000 gallons of water per year. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority water saving

A typical restaurant like the Bluewater Grill in Carlsbad can use between 25,000 to over 300,000 gallons of water per year. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Wolff’s curiosity led to his quest to solve the problem. Wolff is the founder and CEO of CNSRV, a Los Angeles-based startup business offering a new product to remove a hidden source of water waste.

His device, called the CNSRV DC-02, helps save 98% of the water previously used for defrosting food and cuts food prep time in half. His technology is getting noticed by the restaurant industry for its positive environmental impact, along with its cost savings.

See a demonstration video of CNSRV

Running water over frozen food is among a limited number of approved defrosting methods under California’s public health codes, along with defrosting, microwaving, or cooking from frozen. These methods can be slow, affect food quality, or are impractical.

“It didn’t seem like anyone else was out there doing anything about it,” said Wolff. He embarked on learning more, getting feedback from chefs and prep teams, and working with health departments and health inspectors to learn more about food safety and regulations.

Wolff hired an industrial designer and an engineering team. Together, they built their prototype and sought out collaboration and reviews by health department contacts.

Early Adopter Sees Multiple Benefits Beyond Water Saving

Bluewater Grill Executive Chef Albert Serrano says he sees cost savings from no longer having kitchens run water throughout the thawing process, saving thousands of dollars a year per location. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Bluewater Grill Executive Chef Albert Serrano says he sees cost savings from no longer having kitchens run water throughout the thawing process, saving thousands of dollars a year per location. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

One of CNSRV’s early adopters was Chef Osvaldo Albert Serrano of the Bluewater Grill in San Diego. Wolff said Serrano agreed to try the newest prototype at one location 18 months ago. It worked so well it was added to multiple locations.

“I thought it was a great idea,” said Serrano. “It was a no-brainer for our concept and efforts to support sustainability.”

Serrano said it also produces operational benefits. “The thawing process is cut in half, if not more. Not only can it be used to rapidly thaw product, but it also can be used to speed up the cooling process for in-house made sauces.”

The cost savings to Bluewater Grill are significant. “No longer having kitchens running water throughout the thawing process saves Bluewater thousands of dollars a year per location,” said Serrano.

Debby Dunn, Senior Water Resources Manager for the San Diego County Water Authority, became familiar with Wolff’s company through her efforts working with the restaurant industry.

“Over the last decade, I have worked with restaurants to help them find ways to use water efficiently. I was stunned at the amount of water that had to be used at restaurants serving seafood to safely defrost the fish.

“When Dylan from CNSRV came to me with information on his device, I was intrigued.  After seeing it in action and hearing the multiple positive benefits from restaurant staff, I am thrilled,” said Dunn.

CNSRV is now celebrating its first anniversary. CNSRV units are now in restaurants in New York, Texas, Florida, Oregon, and throughout California, including San Diego County.

“What started out as just a water saving mission, as we developed the product further, we found we’re actually saving the kitchen’s time. We’re saving 98% of the water that was going down the drain, which means massive water bill savings for our customers, and with that is a pretty clear return on investment on the device itself,” said Wolff.

Wolff said most restaurants can see a complete return on investment in six months.

CNSRV Device Approved for MWD Rebate Program

The CNSRV DC-02 is eligible for a rebate from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Photo: CNSRV water savings

The CNSRV DC-02 is eligible for a rebate from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Photo: CNSRV

CNSRV is now approved by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) for its ICP Program, offering an $800 rebate on the purchase and installation of the CNSRV unit.

Wolff worked with MWD to produce a third-party study to collect data on the device’s results. It validated the 98% water savings, allowing it to qualify for the rebate.

Serrano appreciates the availability of the MWD rebate. “In this business with tight margins, every little bit helps. He recommends the CNSRV device to his industry colleagues. “If they care about saving money and water. I personally think they should use the machine.”

CNSRV’s device also received a NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) listing, which establishes standards for water treatment devices.

Wolff points out this is not an issue restricted to restaurants. “Our customers are restaurants, grocery stores, hospitals, hotels, stadiums. Then we’re looking to grow into the area of senior living facilities, colleges, universities, and schools, anywhere where they’re preparing food for a decent amount of people. If we could get 5,000 units out, we’re talking billions of gallons saved.”

Regional Media Spotlight Highlights Water Supply Agreements

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Recent media coverage across the region highlighted the San Diego County Water Authority’s continued efforts to strengthen regional water reliability while helping offset the cost of long-term wholesale water supply investments.

At a time when prices are rising across nearly every sector, reporting has focused on how the Water Authority is leveraging its long-term investments in water supply to create new innovative opportunities to change the way water is managed in Southern California. Through a series of recently approved agreements, the agency is positioning itself to not only maintain reliability but also use new revenue in a way that supports working families around the region.

Across outlets, coverage reflects a growing recognition of the positive impacts of this strategy.

A “Win for Ratepayers” Amid Rising Costs

Coverage from Times of San Diego and KPBS centered on the financial impact of the Water Authority’s latest agreement with Eastern Municipal Water District, framing it as both a strategic and timely move.

Times of San Diego described the deal as a “total win for ratepayers,” pointing to the way the agreement turns surplus supply into a revenue-generating asset. Under the agreement, the Water Authority would deliver 10,000 acre-feet of water annually over 21 years, with a significant portion of revenue coming in the early years. Combined with the March water supply agreement with Western Municipal Water District, the Water Authority will see an infusion of $174 million in excess revenue over the next five years.

KPBS reporting added further context, emphasizing that the agreement is part of a broader effort to make use of existing resources without compromising long-term reliability. “It’s a smart way to maximize the investments we’ve already made,” Water Authority General Manager Dan Denham said, highlighting how the agency is building on decades of infrastructure and supply planning.

At the same time, coverage acknowledged the larger economic backdrop shaping these decisions. As costs rise, generating revenue from surplus water is seen as a practical way to manage financial pressure. As Denham noted in reporting, “we have an opportunity to put our water to work,” reinforcing the idea that reliability can extend beyond supply and into long-term value for the region.

The agreement follows a similar recently approved partnership, signaling a consistent approach rather than a one-time opportunity.

SDCWA Board of Directors at the meeting to approve the water supply agreement between the Water Authority and Eastern Municipal Water District.

From Reliability to Opportunity

NBC San Diego led it’s coverage with a twist. The outlet reported the region has “so much water it’s considering selling thousands of acre-feet,” pointing directly to long-term investments in diversified supplies and storage. Fox 5 San Diego coverage echoed that perspective, emphasizing that the ability to sell water is the result of years of planning.

A consistent detail across broadcasting reporting is how these agreements can move forward using existing infrastructure, allowing water to be delivered without the need for new construction or long development timelines.

That same message carried across Spanish-language coverage as well. Telemundo 20 reported that San Diego has “tanta agua” (“so much water”) that it is considering selling excess supply to generate revenue.

Expanding Partnerships across Southern California

In addition to the financial and operational aspects, media coverage pointed to the growing role of regional partnerships.

KPBS reporting highlighted how the agreement with Eastern Municipal Water District reflects continued collaboration between Southern California agencies working to address shared water challenges. These partnerships are designed to provide reliable supply where it is needed most, while also creating a financial return for San Diego County.

The agreement follows a similar partnership with Western Municipal Water District in Riverside County. Under that agreement, Western will purchase at least 10,000 acre-feet of water annually, totaling roughly 3.3 billion gallons per year, with additional purchases bringing in significant upfront revenue. Over time, the agreement is expected to generate hundreds of millions of dollars for the Water Authority.

Recent agreements with both Eastern and Western reflect a broader shift toward coordinated water management, “This agreement is a win for San Diego ratepayers, a win for Western, and a win for Southern California,” said Water Authority Board Chair Nick Serrano.

Agencies are increasingly looking to work together in ways that balance reliability and affordability.

Looking Ahead

The recent wave of media coverage reflects growing attention on the Water Authority’s evolving approach to water management. As additional agreements are explored, the Water Authority is continuing to build on a foundation of reliability and revenue generating investments for ratepayers across the region.

Future partnerships are expected to follow a similar model, using existing infrastructure and available supply to support both regional and financial stability.

Together, these efforts point to a broader shift in how water is managed across Southern California and, through an across the Southwest. With continued collaboration and growing interest from neighboring states, the approach being taken today is likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of water in the West.

New Partnership Expands Water Supply Security in SoCal

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The San Diego County Water Authority and Eastern Municipal Water District have reached a new long‑term water supply agreement – the second major regional partnership announced by the Water Authority in 2026. This latest arrangement expands a growing effort among Southern California water agencies to coordinate resources, strengthen drought preparedness, and make more efficient use of existing water supplies.

The Water Authority and EMWD collectively support more than 4 million residents in San Diego and Riverside counties. Leaders from both agencies said regional cooperation is essential as climate variability and economic pressures reshape long‑term planning and underscore the need for fresh approaches that sustain water affordability and reliability.

“When I became Chair, I committed to bring new, innovative solutions to the table to match the moment we’re in with ratepayer affordability as our North Star,” said Water Authority Board Chair Nick Serrano. “This partnership is exactly that: practical and common-sense regional cooperation that strengthens reliability and creates real value for ratepayers.”

Under the new partnership, EMWD will ramp up to receiving 10,000 acre‑feet of water each year for the next 21 years. EMWD is also securing an advance of roughly 30,000 acre‑feet for later delivery – a strategic tool that gives the district greater flexibility during dry periods and reduces long‑term supply risks.

For the Water Authority, the agreement will generate an estimated $74 million over the first five years, including upfront payments. These funds will help minimize wholesale water rate pressures while ensuring the region continues benefiting from decades of investment in supply diversification.

The Water Authority’s current draft Urban Water Management Plan confirms that the agency’s diversified portfolio of water supplies, combined with a sustained commitment to water-use efficiency, will meet the region’s water needs at least through 2050, even during multiple dry years. That means the Water Authority can continue providing reliable water for San Diego County while making the most of long‑term investments through agreements like the one with EMWD.

“Affordability and reliability go hand‑in‑hand,” said Water Authority General Manager Dan Denham. “This new agreement shows that when agencies share resources and expertise, we can deliver greater value for our customers. EMWD has been an exceptional partner in advancing a more resilient and innovative water future.”

EMWD and the Water Authority worked collaboratively to develop the agreement, reflecting a shared commitment to the health and resilience of Southern California’s water system. EMWD leaders said the new supply arrangement supports long‑term planning for one of California’s fastest‑growing service areas. The district gains access to dependable supplies without the expense or timelines associated with constructing new major infrastructure.

“Regional cooperation is essential for a stable water future,” said EMWD Board President Stephen J. Corona. “This agreement highlights how collaboration can generate benefits well beyond our service boundaries.”

“Dan Denham and I have been discussing a vision for our collective water future for many years,” said EMWD General Manager Joe Mouawad. “This agreement is the first step of many towards effective regional collaboration, which is key to positive outcomes for EMWD customers as well as those in San Diego, and around Southern California.”

Like the March agreement between the Water Authority and Western Municipal Water District, water deliveries for EMWD will move through existing facilities operated by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, meaning water will be conveyed using current pipelines and treatment systems. This approach avoids the need for new construction and enables the transfer to be implemented quickly and efficiently.

“When Metropolitan and the Water Authority settled their long-running legal dispute last year, it opened up a new era of collaboration, making possible agreements like this one,” said Metropolitan board Vice Chair Michael Camacho. “By working together and thinking beyond our own political boundaries, we can forge smart solutions to ensure all Southern California communities have reliable water despite the ongoing challenge of climate change.”

The water transfer partnerships are part of a broader effort to modernize water management across the Southwest and Southern California. In addition, the Water Authority has committed to developing a pilot program that could result in transferring locally produced desalinated seawater to Colorado River Basin partners in other states – another step toward a more flexible and interconnected regional water network.

SoCal Water Leaders Announce Landmark Regional Water Partnership

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The San Diego County Water Authority and Western Municipal Water District today announced a historic long-term regional water supply agreement that strengthens water reliability and creates a paradigm shift in how water providers share resources across the region to benefit millions of customers.

Together, the agencies serve communities representing more than 4 million Southern California residents across Riverside and San Diego counties.

“This agreement is a win for San Diego ratepayers, a win for Western, and a win for Southern California,” said Water Authority Board Chair Nick Serrano. “It allows us to maximize the value of the investments San Diego County residents made over decades, strengthen water reliability, and do so in a way that is mindful of affordability and public responsibility. It is exactly the kind of innovative, collaborative approach this moment demands.”

Under the agreement, Western Water will receive a minimum of 10,000 acre-feet of water annually over the next 21 years, enough to supply approximately 30,000 Southern California households each year and strengthen long-term water reliability for the communities it serves. Western Water is also pre-purchasing approximately 30,000 acre-feet of water for future delivery, a nearly $40 million investment that provides added flexibility during drought.

The partnership will generate approximately $13.5 million annually in revenue for the San Diego County Water Authority, with the agreement expected to deliver roughly $100 million over the first five years after accounting for the upfront payments. Those revenues help offset the cost of long-term water supply investments while making efficient use of existing regional water supplies.

The Water Authority’s current draft Urban Water Management Plan confirms that the agency’s diversified portfolio of water supplies, combined with a sustained commitment to water-use efficiency, will meet the region’s water needs through 2050, even during multiple dry years. That means the Water Authority can continue providing reliable water for San Diego County while making the most of long‑term investments through agreements like the one with Western Water. Revenues generated through those agreements help reduce wholesale water rate pressures for San Diego County customers.

“The county’s ratepayers continue to benefit from investments in water conservation that give us flexibility to balance water affordability and reliability,” said Water Authority General Manager Dan Denham. “This agreement would not have been possible without the incredible team at Western Water that shares our commitment to visionary leadership and collaboration in developing a new way to think about water resources.”

For Western Water, the partnership strengthens long-term water supply planning by securing access to highly reliable supplies at one of the most cost-effective opportunities available today.

Western Water serves nearly one million residents across southwest Riverside County, one of California’s fastest-growing regions, where planning ahead for dependable water supplies is essential for community stability and economic growth. By securing access to these supplies, Western Water strengthens drought protection and long-term supply planning without the cost, risk, or timelines associated with developing major new water supply projects.

“Partnerships like this show what is possible when water agencies work together,” said Laura Roughton, president of Western Water’s Board of Directors. “By sharing secured resources, we can strengthen water reliability for our communities while freeing up supplies that are needed elsewhere across the region. It’s a win for our customers, a win for San Diego, and a win for Southern California’s water system.”

Western Water and the Water Authority worked collaboratively to develop the agreement, reflecting a shared commitment to the health and resilience of Southern California’s water system for generations.

“With California’s water landscape shifting due to climate variability, economic and population growth, now is the time to pursue innovative partnerships that strengthen long-term water planning and affordability,” said Craig Miller, general manager of Western Water. “We appreciate the leadership and professionalism of the San Diego County Water Authority in helping make this partnership possible.”

The agreement builds on a series of innovative efforts by the Water Authority to make the most of its long-term water supply investments. Earlier this year, the Water Authority’s Board approved an agreement with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to explore a pilot program that could allow desalinated seawater to be exchanged with Colorado River Basin states – another step aimed at strengthening water security across the Southwest while modernizing how regional water resources are managed.

Water purchased by Western Water will be delivered through existing connections within the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s regional pipeline system, meaning no new infrastructure is required. Because the water moves through existing facilities, transfers can be carried out efficiently without building new pipelines or treatment plants.

“Southern California is an economic engine for the nation, and its future depends on a secure and sustainable water supply,” said Metropolitan Board Chair Adán Ortega, Jr. “This agreement was made possible by a legal settlement forged last year between Metropolitan and the Water Authority. That settlement gave birth to a new business model allowing the movement of water between our 26 member agencies. The water that is part of this agreement didn’t just fall from the sky. It was conserved by businesses and residents for the benefit of greater Southern California. Together, we are ensuring our region continues to thrive for generations to come and providing a model that can solve other water challenges in the Southwest.”

Regional Leaders Praise Water Authority Innovation

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Regional leaders from across San Diego County expressed their support for the historic long-term regional water supply agreement between the Water Authority and Western Municipal Water District following Thursday’s news conference announcing the agreement.

Congressman Scott Peters

U.S. Rep. Scott Peters: “The San Diego County Water Authority has worked for decades to ensure our community has enough water no matter the weather. Now, the Water Authority is taking another strategic step forward with water transfers that will help control wholesale water costs. This is a major win for our region.”

Assemblymember Chris Ward: “When we look at agencies that provide a public good, we want to see them taking every opportunity to be innovative, efficient, collaborative and focused on affordability. I applaud the Water Authority for finding new ways to deliver positive outcomes for people across the San Diego region.”

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria: “Today’s water-supply agreement shows people across San Diego County that we can find solutions to our biggest problems. I commend the City of San Diego’s representatives on the Water Authority’s board for their initiative and laser focus on keeping costs down for everyone in our region.”

Carol Kim, Business Manager, San Diego County Building & Construction Trades Council: “With this water transfer agreement, the Water Authority has centered the needs of working families at a time when inflation continues to impact all aspects of our lives. Dedication to keeping future rate increases low is what we expect from all our public agencies – and the Water Authority is charting a new course that benefits us all.”

Mark Cafferty, President & CEO, San Diego Regional Economic Development Corp.:  “The County Water Authority is demonstrating real leadership – settling litigation with the Metropolitan Water District and securing a transfer deal with our northern neighbors. It’s a smart, forward-looking approach that helps control wholesale water rates while ensuring the reliable supply our regional economy depends on.”

Jimmy Ukegawa, President, San Diego County Farm Bureau: “We appreciate the San Diego County Water Authority investing in water reliability and then making strategic decisions that generate new revenues to protect ratepayers. That approach benefits the bottom lines for thousands of men and women who produce the food and flowers that enrich our lives and our economy.”

Miguel Motta, COO & Executive Director, BIOCOM San Diego: “As a major consideration for the life science industry, the future of our water supply is always front of mind. Biocom was founded on the importance of reliable access to essential resources like water, which underpins innovation. That’s why we’re encouraged by the Water Authority’s forward-thinking strategies to manage rates while leveraging regional water resources so our member companies can continue driving the breakthroughs that define San Diego.”

(L to R): Yailey Gonzalez and Laurne Magnuson of the Water Conservation Garden, joined by Helix Water District Board President Kathleen Coates-Hedberg and Vice President Joel Scalzitti. Photo: Helix Water District

Helix Water District Honored for Environmental Stewardship

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Helix Water District was recognized by the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce with its 2026 Environmental Stewardship Award. District representatives received their award at the 114th Annual East County Honors Awards Gala.

The Environmental Stewardship Award recognizes the Helix Water District’s leadership in advancing innovative and collaborative solutions to protect natural resources and strengthen long-term water reliability for East County.

Helix Water District has invested in conservation, clean energy, and resilient infrastructure for more than a century, as part of its mission to deliver safe, reliable drinking water for its customers. The district continues to embark on new projects and initiatives that position Helix as a regional leader in environmental stewardship.

“Sustainability is not a single achievement but a daily commitment,” said Board President Kathleen Coates Hedberg. “We are honored to be recognized for our ongoing efforts.

“From clean energy investments to advanced water purification, our progress is driven by the dedication of our employees, the strength of our regional partnerships, and the trust of the customers we proudly serve,” added Coates Hedberg.

Environmental Stewardship Accomplishments

Helix Water District purchased its first EV truck in 2022. Photo: Helix Water District

Helix Water District purchased its first EV truck in 2022. Photo: Helix Water District

The Helix Water District’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in its numerous accomplishments.

The district installed a first-of-its-kind, state-of-the-art charging system at the Nat L. Eggert Operations Center. It is now the largest medium- and heavy-duty fleet charging installation in California. It was almost entirely grant-funded.

Helix has reduced energy costs and demand, saving up to 18% on electric commodity rates through direct purchase agreements while also cutting facility electricity use by 15% through efficiency upgrades. These collective savings benefit Helix customers.

The district has improved regional water reliability by participating in the East County Advanced Water Purification Program, thereby reducing reliance on the Colorado River and Sierra Nevada runoff.

Helix Water District has lowered its greenhouse gas emissions by 40% through fleet, energy, and operational improvements.

The installation of solar panels is lowering Helix Water District energy consumption and budget costs. Photo Helix Water District

The installation of solar panels is lowering Helix Water District’s energy consumption and budget costs. Photo Helix Water District

In addition to the recognition for its efforts by the San Diego Regional East County Chamber, Helix Water District earned Green Business certification in 2025 from the California Green Business Network and the City of La Mesa.

Helix Water District continues to work with its residential and business customers to promote long-term water efficiency. This effort has helped reduce average water use from 142 gallons per person per day in 1992 to 90 gallons in 2025.

Ongoing Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce recognized the Helix Water District's commitment to environmental sustainability. Photo: Helix Water District

The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce recognized the Helix Water District’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Photo: Helix Water District

“Environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility go hand in hand,” said Coates Hedberg. “For every project, the district considers how best to protect our natural resources while also delivering value to the customers we serve.”

The East County Honors Awards Gala, a long-standing tradition celebrating excellence in business and community leadership, brings together organizations that exemplify innovation, responsibility, and service. Helix Water District is honored to be recognized among those helping shape a more sustainable future for East County.

The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce advocates for improving business opportunities, public policy, and business education throughout San Diego County.

For more information, visit www.eastcountychamber.org/.

Low water conditions reveal the light-colored rink traces along the rock-wall shoreline at Lake Mead, showing the decreased water level from years of drought conditions in the Colorado River basin. Innovative water sharing agreements can help to mitigate this. Photo: Christopher Clark / U.S. Department of the Interior - Bureau of Reclamation

Board Approves Federal, Interstate Partnership on Colorado River

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The San Diego County Water Authority’s Board of Directors today unanimously approved a landmark agreement to explore an interstate water transfer and exchange pilot program with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, and agencies in Nevada and Arizona.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) – which still needs to be ratified by the other agencies – creates a pathway that could eventually allow the Water Authority to “move” water from the nation’s largest seawater desalination plant in Carlsbad to areas in the drought-ravaged Colorado River Basin that need more water. If successfully developed, this would create the first program to transfer water across state lines within the basin.

Such a program could help reduce water costs for working families in San Diego County by optimizing the region’s investments in reliability. Water purchases from the Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant would generate new revenues and offset costs for residents, improving regional water affordability.

“This agreement could be a gamechanger for San Diego County and the entire Southwest because it creates the possibility of a new, collaborative path for moving water where it’s needed most while keeping reliability and affordability at the center for ratepayers,” said Water Authority Board Chair Nick Serrano. “Leveraging existing resources like our Carlsbad desalination plant in this moment simply makes sense for everyone.”

Water transfers or exchanges would occur “on paper,” meaning agencies would access supplies through existing infrastructure and avoid costly new infrastructure.

The demand is clear: In recent years, agencies in Arizona and Nevada have sought ways to tap the Pacific Ocean, but the costs of construction are prohibitive. The Arizona Department of Water Resources, Central Arizona Water Conservation District and Southern Nevada Water Authority are part of the new MOU.

For more than 20 years, the seven states in the Colorado River Basin have wrestled with drought conditions that have created growing imbalances between water supplies and demands. As the Bureau of Reclamation, Basin States, Mexico, and tribal nations consider new operating guidelines for the river, new management strategies and interstate partnerships are increasingly critical.

Over roughly the same period, the Water Authority has invested $3 billion in water reliability efforts, including the Carlsbad plant, which produces up to 54 million gallons per day. Additionally, the 2003 Colorado River Quantification Settlement Agreement – which generates conserved water in the Imperial Valley – and hard-wired conservation in the San Diego region have positioned the Water Authority to not only meet the region’s needs but also provide relief to other areas.

“Next-generation strategies must include interstate partnerships that deliver water where it’s needed most,” said Water Authority General Manager Dan Denham. “We appreciate the collaboration with the Bureau of Reclamation, Metropolitan Water District, Arizona and Nevada. New ideas are challenging to implement, but it’s in everyone’s best interest to make this work.”

Senior Public Affairs Representative Kimberlyn Velasquez and intern Sierra Stewart at the Poway Unified School District Career Fair at Mt. Carmel High School.

Water Authority Ramps Up Workforce Development

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Job opportunities in the water industry are plentiful and growing. That’s why the San Diego County Water Authority is making workforce development a priority, preparing the next generation of job seekers to pursue careers in this vital and often overlooked field.

The Water Authority is participating in career fairs and work panels around the county to highlight the various career paths, educational requirements, starting salaries and job growth potential in the water world.

“More than half of our workforce will be eligible to retire in the next five years,” said Cristina Lever-Santos, Principal Human Resources Analyst with the Water Authority “This will create new opportunities for meaningful careers in the water industry. Engaging our community to develop robust workforce development opportunities will help to fill critical skills and knowledge gaps, ensure operational business continuity, and create a pipeline of top talent.”

2025 Workforce Development Efforts

Water Authority employees are connecting with high school and college students, transitioning service members, veterans, and diverse immigrant communities at various events.

The goal is to showcase the wide array of jobs needed to keep water flowing to the taps. Career opportunities range from engineering, finance and public affairs roles that require college degrees, to skilled trade jobs – such as surveyors and operators, that call for a high school diploma and special certifications at differing levels.

Introductions to water careers are made at a variety of career fairs and industry events throughout the year. These include high school and college career fairs, the East County Economic Development Council Manufacturing Expo, as well as military and apprenticeship-focused fairs.

Cristina Lever-Santos and intern Lily Winesett at the East County EDC Manufacturing Expo at Cuyamaca College

Cristina Lever-Santos and intern Lily Winesett at the East County EDC Manufacturing Expo at Cuyamaca College.

Students and prospective job candidates stop by the agency’s booth to learn about water industry career paths, internship programs, and the skills and education needed to enter and thrive in the water industry. Fun promotional materials and interactive demos also engage participants.

 

The agency is also partnering with the newly formed San Diego County Water Workforce Collaborative to bring together educators and industry professionals to highlight the water industry and build a future water workforce.

Plans for the Future

To inspire the next generation of water professionals, the Water Authority is also expanding its work with partners at the college and high school levels as well as collaborating with water agencies throughout the region. Programs such as the apprenticeship initiative with Cuyamaca College’s Center for Water Studies allow students to rotate through technical roles to gain practical experience in treatment and operations.

Supporting Veterans and Career Growth

The Water Authority provides training opportunities to military veterans looking for new careers in public service as part of the SkillBridge Program. The program helps military veterans transition to career-track training opportunities, including work in the water and wastewater industry. More than 30,000 service members separate from the military each year in California, and more than half are transitioning out of active duty in the San Diego region.

Learn More About a Career in Water

Senior Human Resources Analyst Patty Duran at the Camp Pendleton Career Exploration & Hiring Event.

Senior Human Resources Analyst Patty Duran at the Camp Pendleton Career Exploration & Hiring Event.

 

San Diego County Water Authority and its 22 member agencies launched SanDiegoWaterWorks.org, serving as a one-stop shop for regional water and wastewater industry careers. It provides the first comprehensive list of job openings across the San Diego region in a convenient location. The site features:

  • Current water and wastewater job postings in the San Diego region
  • Career advice and resources on training, education and internship programs
  • Stories featuring rewarding careers in the water industry
  • Resources and information on special training programs and internships for military veterans

In addition, the California Urban Water Agencies career ladders offer valuable resources by highlighting career paths, requirements, and salaries within the water sector – from entry-level positions to advanced technical and executive leadership roles.

For more information about careers in water, visit sdcwa.org/careers or sandiegowaterworks.org

New SDCWA Board Secretary Teresa Acosta.

Teresa Acosta Elected Secretary of Water Authority Board

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The San Diego County Water Authority Board of Directors on Thursday unanimously elected Carlsbad City Councilmember Teresa Acosta as the board’s new Secretary. Acosta replaces Joy Lyndes, who stepped down following her recent announcement that she will not seek re-election to her position on the Encinitas City Council this year.

“The San Diego County Water Authority is fortunate to have Director Acosta step up during this critical time in the agency’s history,” said Board Chair Nick Serrano, who represents the City of San Diego. “As an elected official in our North County, she brings a community perspective and a collaborative mindset to the Authority. She also shares my unwavering commitment to ensuring ratepayer affordability, and I look forward to working with her in this new leadership role to bring down costs for all San Diegans while ensuring a safe and reliable water supply.”

Acosta, who has been Carlsbad’s District 4 councilmember since 2020, currently serves as the vice chair of the Water Authority’s Legislation and Public Outreach Committee and is a member of the Administrative and Finance Committee. Additionally, Acosta is the First Vice President of the League of California Cities Board of Directors and and will become its president in September 2026.

“I’m honored by the support of my colleagues as I take over the role of board secretary,” said Director Acosta. “I look to expand on the foundation that Director Lyndes and the rest of the leadership team built as we ensure this agency is doing everything possible for working families across the region.”

Director Lyndes has represented San Dieguito Water District on the Water Authority Board since 2023 and has served as secretary since her unanimous election in October 2024. She plans to remain on the Water Authority Board through the end of the year.

“Director Lyndes has brought grounded, thoughtful, and collaborative leadership to every Board meeting particularly as we have placed significant focus on affordability, reliability, and long-term planning,” Chair Serrano said. “I am sincerely grateful for her leadership here at the Water Authority and her continued service to our region.”

Water Authority Wins Budgeting Award from National Organization

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For the 30th consecutive year, the San Diego County Water Authority earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) — along with a special commendation for its Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget.

GFOA’s award is the highest recognition in governmental budgeting, while the Water Authority’s CIP is critical to maintaining the region’s liquid lifelines.

“This recognition proves that the attention to detail, commitment to transparency and focus on affordability the Water Authority puts into its budget process make the agency a national leader in public finance,” said Director of Finance Lisa Marie Harris.  “Kudos to our staff and our Board for all the effort that to ensure we provide reliable water at the lowest possible cost.”

Over the years, GFOA Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for governments throughout North America, reflecting the commitment of the governing boards and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting.

With a two-year budget of over $1.9 billion, the Water Authority’s finance team is entrusted with the fiscal health of an agency responsible for delivering safe and reliable water to 3.3 million residents across the region. More than 90 percent of the budget is for water purchases and treatment, capital improvement and debt service.

While the era of expansive infrastructure projects is over for the Water Authority, the agency continues to invest in CIP projects that maintain its aging infrastructure.   The agency operates 308 miles of large-diameter pipelines, 1,600 structures and more than 100 flow-control facilities, most of which are decades old.