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Francisco X. Rivera, Mark Robak, and Delfina Gonzalez assume leadership roles for the Otay Water District Board of Directors in 2026. Photo: Otay Water DIstrict

Francisco X. Rivera Elected 2026 Otay Water District Board President

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The Otay Water District board of directors elected Francisco X. Rivera as president for 2026 at its January meeting. Rivera represents Division One.

The board also elected board member Mark Robak, who represents Division Five, as vice president. Delfina Gonzalez, who represents Division Two, was elected as treasurer.

Rivera will serve as president through the end of the calendar year.

Under Rivera’s leadership, the Otay Water District will continue to fulfill its mission of providing exceptional water and wastewater service to its customers and of managing its resources in a transparent and fiscally responsible manner.

Rivera Service In Region’s Water Industry

Rivera was appointed to the District Board of Directors in September 2024 to fill the Division One vacancy through December 2026.

In 2025, he served as the board treasurer and chair of several committees, including Engineering, Operations, and Water Resources; the Ad Hoc Salt Creek Golf Course Lease and Property Disposition; and the Ad Hoc Employee Negotiations.

Rivera also served on the Desalination Project and the Recycled Water Agreement Ad Hoc committees.

In addition, Rivera represented the District on the Chula Vista Interagency, Otay Water District and Sweetwater Authority Task Force to Develop Recycled Water Opportunities, San Diego Area Wastewater Management District, and the WateReuse Association.

Rivera is one of the Otay Water District’s representatives to the San Diego County Water Authority Board of Directors.

“It is an honor to be elected board president,” said Rivera. “I look forward to working with our board to support fiscal responsibility, reliable infrastructure, and transparent governance on behalf of the District and its customers.”

Three Decades of Leadership

Francisco X. Rivera brings extensive experience in civil engineering and infrastructure projects to the Otay Water District board of directors. Photo: Otay Water District

Francisco X. Rivera brings extensive experience in civil engineering and infrastructure projects to the Otay Water District board of directors. Photo: Otay Water District

Rivera, a licensed civil engineer and traffic engineer, brings more than three decades of public-sector engineering, transportation, and infrastructure leadership to the Otay Water District. He retired in 2023 after almost 40 years with the City of Chula Vista, where he served as a principal civil engineer and city traffic engineer. During his tenure, he led major land development, transportation, wastewater, and capital improvement programs and managed large-scale regional infrastructure projects.

In addition to his District service, Rivera serves on the San Diego Association of Governments Independent Taxpayer Oversight Committee, which oversees the expenditure of TransNet funds, the countywide half-cent transportation sales tax generating approximately $425 million annually. He was unanimously reappointed to a four-year term through May 2030 and serves as chair for fiscal year 2026, following a term as vice chair.

Rivera Contributions to Community Service

Rivera is also active in regional and community service. His past and current roles include the City of Chula Vista Measure A Public Safety Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee, the Salvation Army South County Advisory Board, vice president of the Eastlake III Homeowners Association, and chair of the Eastlake III HOA’s Architectural Review Committee.

Rivera’s professional achievements have been recognized with numerous awards, including the American Public Works Association Outstanding Service in a Public Agency Award, as well as honors from the City of Chula Vista and the San Diego County Bike Coalition.

Rivera holds a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the United States International University. During his free time, he enjoys traveling the world, riding his mountain and road bikes locally, and volunteers each March as a bike marshal at the San Diego Half Marathon.

The five-member Otay Water District board of directors is the governing body of the District and is responsible for setting rates for service, taxes, policies, ordinances, adopting the annual budget and other matters related to the management and operation of the water agency. Each director is elected by voters within one of five divisions to represent the public’s interest on the Board. Directors serve four-year terms in office.

 

Water Agencies Offer Free Rain Collection Workshop

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Encinitas, CA — Olivenhain Municipal Water District, San Dieguito Water District, and Santa Fe Irrigation District invite you to attend a free workshop on the benefits of collecting rainwater. The class is being held on January 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at OMWD headquarters located at 1966 Olivenhain Road in Encinitas.

The workshop will cover the benefits of harvesting rainwater and what type of collection systems work best for different types of homes. The workshop will also review how to maintain a rain collection system and how to apply for applicable rebates.

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Construction begins soon on the new East County AWP energy recovery system, which will provide up to 30% of the project’s energy needs, saving the operators and ratepayers money. Photo: East County AWP

East County AWP Reports Progress, Hosts Outreach Event Jan. 17

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Construction is progressing at the various project sites for the East County Advanced Water Purification Program. The past year saw a number of accomplishments, bringing the initiative one step closer to the finish line.

Watch the latest East County AWP video presentation.

The East County AWP Outreach team will kick off 2026 with a pop-up event for the public at Mission Trails Regional Park on Saturday, January 17, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Representatives will answer questions and share information about the pipeline work underway within Mission Trails Regional Park, including rehabilitation of an existing sewer pipeline, and installation of a new nine-mile residuals pipeline along Father Junipero Serra Trail within the park. Visit the project’s website for more details.

Work to install a temporary sewer bypass pipeline is complete, allowing work to continue during rainy months without risking a sewer spill and protecting wildlife and waterways.

Education Center Nears Completion

The lights are on at the East County AWP's Education Building, which also houses administrative offices and a new laboratory. Photo: East County AWP

The lights are on at the East County AWP’s Education Building, which also houses administrative offices and a new laboratory. Photo: East County AWP

The new Education Center building, which will also house the administrative offices and a brand-new laboratory, is now 90% complete. San Diego Gas and Electric finished its work on the new treatment facility’s main electrical room, and power is now available for its operations. With electricity in place, the team is gearing up for the next milestone: installing the East County AWP sign outside the building.

Each digester can store up to 1.4 million gallons, and stands 46 feet high and measures 75 feet in diameter. Photo: East County AWP

Each digester can store up to 1.4 million gallons, and stands 46 feet high and measures 75 feet in diameter. Photo: East County AWP

Next, construction will get underway on the energy recovery system. Located north of the Education Center, Anaergia is working on the final design, with construction scheduled this winter. The methane produced by three digesters will be captured and used to generate both heating and electricity. The energy recovery system will provide up to 30% of the project’s energy needs, saving the operators and ratepayers money.

Crews are preparing for the installation of the final 3,500 feet of 36-inch wastewater pipeline. Work is active at the East Mission Gorge Pump Station and just south of Lake One at Santee Lakes. This segment is set to be completed this summer.

The East County AWP successfully secured two critical water discharge permits from the San Diego Regional Water Control Board, a significant operational milestone.

Mast Boulevard Construction Progress 

Construction work is complete and Mast Boulevard from Fanita Parkway to Vomac Road is now restored. Photo: East County AWP

Construction work is complete and Mast Boulevard from Fanita Parkway to Vomac Road is now restored. Photo: East County AWP

Mast Boulevard from Fanita Parkway to Vomac Road is a whole lot smoother after completion of final paving and striping work.

Crews are continuing work on Mast Boulevard from Vomac Road to W. Hartland Circle and are expected to wrap up by mid-to-late February. There is a 24-hour temporary closure of the second westbound lane near the work area. Expect paving and striping after these repairs are complete.

Habitat Restoration Restores Native Plants

Native plants are being reintroduced after construction has been completed in several areas including at Lake Jennings. Photo: East County AWP

Native plants are being reintroduced after construction has been completed in several areas including at Lake Jennings. Photo: East County AWP

As part of ongoing restoration following the installation of purified and wastewater pipelines, new plantings were installed last month around Lake Jennings, the Historic Flume Trail, El Monte Road, Laurel Canyon Road, and the end of Mast Boulevard.

These plants are native to San Diego and the surrounding area. They include California sagebrush, San Diego County sunflower, bush sunflower, California buckwheat, laurel sumac, lemonade berry, and spiny redberry.

Planting is also being done north of Ganley Road, and hydroseeding near the East Mission Gorge Pump Station and along Fanita Parkway will bring a more vibrant landscape to East County for years to come.

Overnight Work Continues Through February

Overnight work on a wastewater pipeline continues along Fairmount Avenue between Twain Avenue and Mission Gorge Road in San Diego between 8:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., Monday through Thursday. Noise and bright lights, along with road and lane closures, may affect traffic and nearby residents and businesses. Home access will be maintained at all times. Work should be complete at the end of February.

Interactive Map Helps Residents Stay Updated On Program Progress

The East County Advanced Water Program made significant progress in 2025.

The East County Advanced Water Program made significant progress in 2025.

When completed, water from this project will provide potable water to customers in Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Helix Water District, and Lakeside Water District service areas, and the northern portion of the Otay Water District.

With construction in multiple locations throughout east county, the Program’s interactive map offers a useful tool for residents and businesses to track where work is happening. The map is updated regularly and accessible 24/7 through the EastCountyAWP.com website. Information is also available via social media at @eastcountyawp

 

 

 

Vista Irrigation District Logo

Vista Irrigation District To Sponsor Scholarship Contest

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Vista, CA – Vista Irrigation District invites local high school seniors to compete for scholarships from the district. Up to six scholarships may be awarded in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. The purpose of the scholarship program is to encourage students to learn more about how water related issues influence our daily lives.

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The VID board of directors elected Marty Miller as its president and Jo MacKenzie as its vice-president for 2026. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

Vista Irrigation District Board Elects Officers For 2026

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The Vista Irrigation District board of directors elected Marty Miller as its president and Jo MacKenzie as its vice-president for 2026 at its annual organizational meeting.

Director Marty Miller will serve as board president. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

Director Marty Miller will serve as board president. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

Miller, who has served on the board of directors since 2008, represents Division 1, which stretches from Gopher Canyon Road to Vale Terrace Drive in Vista. This will be the fourth time Miller has led the board since being elected.

Miller, who owned a general construction company for over 40 years, has served as chair of the district’s water sustainability, fiscal policy, public affairs, and Warner Ranch committees.  He has represented the district on the San Diego County Water Authority (Water Authority) board of directors since 2011.

Miller is also a member of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California board of directors, representing the Water Authority, and a member of the Local Agency Formation Commission Special Districts advisory committee.

Director Jo MacKenzie will serve as vice-president. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

Director Jo MacKenzie will serve as vice-president. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

MacKenzie has served on the Board of Directors since December 1992 and represents Division 5, which includes northeast and southeast Vista, north Twin Oaks Valley, and the Bennett area in the city of San Marcos.

MacKenzie has been a member of governing boards and committees of statewide and local organizations for many years. She has been actively involved with the Association of California Water Agencies, the California Special Districts Association and San Diego Local Agency Formation Commission, serving as a representative for special districts.

Currently, MacKenzie leads the California Special Districts Association Finance Corporation board of directors as its president and serves as vice-president of the Special District Leadership Foundation board of directors.

Miller and MacKenzie are joined by directors Frank Nuñez (Division 2), Peter Kuchinsky (Division 3), and Patrick Sanchez (Division 4) to form the district’s board of directors.

Vista Irrigation District is a public agency governed by an elected five-member board.  The district provides water service to more than 132,000 people in the city of Vista, and portions of San Marcos, Escondido, Oceanside, and unincorporated areas of the county of San Diego.

The Fire Mountain project supports the City of Oceanside’s goal of maintaining locally controlled, sustainable water sources. Photo: City of Oceanside

Fire Mountain Project Expands Oceanside Recycled Water System

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Strategic infrastructure investments by the City of Oceanside continue to strengthen its water independence. Oceanside is currently constructing the last components of its Lower Phase 1 Recycled Water System.

The project is now reaching a crucial phase following the successful completion of six miles of new recycled water pipeline along El Camino Real, extending from the San Luis Rey Water Reclamation Facility south to the Fire Mountain site.

Currently, construction is underway on a new recycled water reservoir and pump station. This project will ensure reliable storage and efficient distribution of recycled water resources and reduce reliance on imported water.

Construction Activity Continues at Fire Mountain Site

Crews began construction on a 2.2 million-gallon reservoir (storage tank) on Fire Mountain Drive directly west of the Eternal Hills Memorial Park cemetery in March 2025. Construction on the project is progressing on schedule.

See video of the Oceanside Fire Mountain project’s progress.

Construction crews completed site preparations, installed recycled water and storm drain piping, and constructed two subterranean concrete vaults. On August 28, crews poured the concrete slab for the new reservoir. On September 5, crews started work on the reservoir walls and columns.

Constructing the Fire Mountain reservoir roof is the next step. As reservoir construction continues, crews will work on the pump station that will deliver recycled water from the reservoir to a higher-pressure zone in the distribution system.

Residents can expect minimal street closures during construction, with advance notice provided when closures are necessary.

Normal work hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Construction is expected to be complete in Fall 2026.

Construction on the Fire Mountain project in Oceanside is progressing on schedule and is scheduled for completion in Fall 2026. Map: City of Oceanside

Construction on the Fire Mountain project in Oceanside is progressing on schedule and is scheduled for completion in Fall 2026. Map: City of Oceanside

Commitment to Water Sustainability

This important project supports the City of Oceanside’s goal of maintaining locally controlled, sustainable water sources for its residents. The investment in updated water infrastructure represents City leadership’s commitment to Oceanside’s water independence and sustainability. It will increase local drought resilience and decrease the City’s reliance on imported water.

The City’s recycled water projects benefit Oceanside ratepayers by slowing the rising cost of water, reducing stress on the water supply, and ensuring a reliable source of water during times of drought or natural disasters.

Please visit the City of Oceanside Water Utilities project webpage for more project information. Residents can contact project officials at or 760-435-5836.

 

 

A map display showing the new path as part of the Sweetwater Reservoir Recreation trail system. Sweetwater Reservoir Trail

New Sweetwater Reservoir Trail Open for Recreation

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A brand-new 2.2-mile trail is open along the east side of Sweetwater Reservoir. Originally a maintenance road, the trail has been transformed into a scenic pathway for walking, running, and mountain biking.

Previously accessible only as a maintenance road, the 2.2-mile route has been repurposed into a safe and inviting public trail ideal for walking, running, and mountain biking.

“Sweetwater is committed to increasing public recreation while protecting water quality and preserving the environment and habitats at Sweetwater Reservoir,” said Sweetwater Authority board chairman Manny Delgado. “This new trail and the accompanying improvements are a testament to those continued commitments.”

This enhancement was made possible through a $1.16 million grant awarded to the Urban Corps of San Diego County by the California Conservation Corps, dedicated to trail improvements and habitat restoration. Additional support came from the County of San Diego, through two generous grants to the San Diego Mountain Biking Association.

Trail Provides New Access to Open Space

(L to R) Sweetwater Authority Assistant General Manager Roberto Yano, Otay Water District board member Mark Robak, and National City Vice Mayor, Sweetwater Authority vice chair and San Diego County Water Authority board member Ditas Yamane at the ribbon cutting for the new Sweetwater Reservoir southern trail. Photo: Susie Murphy, @CVBikeMom63/Instagram for San Diego Mountain Biking Association

(L to R) Sweetwater Authority Assistant General Manager Roberto Yano, Otay Water District board member and San Diego County Water Authority board member Mark Robak, and National City Vice Mayor, Sweetwater Authority vice chair and San Diego County Water Authority board member Ditas Yamane at the ribbon cutting for the new Sweetwater Reservoir southern trail. Photo: Susie Murphy, @CVBikeMom63/Instagram for San Diego Mountain Biking Association

Dedicated in September, the new trail connects the Sweetwater Reservoir Recreation Area (SWRRA) with the County of San Diego’s Southern Trail, offering the South Bay community fresh opportunities to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The trail connects to existing paths in the area and was created while preserving native vegetation and sensitive habitats, benefitting local wildlife.

The trail runs parallel to the reservoir’s shoreline east of Bonita and south of Spring Valley. It provides beautiful views of the water and the surrounding open space. It also connects to the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area that preserves native plants and wildlife as part of a regional conservation effort.

The trail is designed to be more accessible for beginners and families than some of the more rugged trails in the adjacent Wildlife Refuge to encourage fitness and recreation. By linking with existing paths, the trail also strengthens the region’s recreation network, creating new opportunities for exploration and connectivity.

Along with opening the trail, Sweetwater Authority has taken steps to protect the environment. Crews are restoring nearby habitat by removing invasive weeds, improving drainage, and planting native vegetation. These improvements will make the area healthier, support local wildlife, and reduce wildfire risk.

Trail Preserves Local Environment

South Bay community leaders and members of the public gathered to celebrate the opening of the newest trail at the Sweetwater Authority Recreation Area. Photo: Photo: Susie Murphy, @CVBikeMom63/Instagram for San Diego Mountain Biking Association Sweetwater Reservoir Trail

South Bay community leaders and members of the public gathered to celebrate the opening of the newest trail at the Sweetwater Authority Recreation Area. Photo: Photo: Susie Murphy, @CVBikeMom63/Instagram for San Diego Mountain Biking Association

The addition of the new trail builds on Sweetwater Reservoir’s long tradition of outdoor recreation, which already includes a popular shoreline fishing program open Friday through Monday. With the new trail, visitors have another way to enjoy the natural beauty of Sweetwater Reservoir while also helping to protect the local environment.

The Sweetwater Reservoir Shared Maintenance Road and Trail officially opened to the public on September 5, 2025. Trail maps, visiting hours, and safety guidelines are available on Sweetwater Authority’s website at  www.sweetwater.org.

East County Advanced Water Purification Joint Powers Authority JPA Logo

East County AWP Program Secures Two Water Discharge Permits

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Santee, CA – The East County Advanced Water Purification (AWP) Program has
successfully secured two critical water discharge permits from the San Diego Regional Water Control Board during its November 12 meeting. This approval marks a major milestone for the multi-agency project, bringing it one step closer to becoming a reality.

Both permits are scheduled to take effect in June 2026, allowing the Program to advance toward
construction completion and system startup. T

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Vallecitos Water District is nearing completion of the Tres Amigos waterline replacement project in the northern part of its district. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Waterline Replacement Project Enhances Water Supply Reliability

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The Vallecitos Water District is nearing completion of a major waterline replacement project, improving water system reliability for generations to come.

The Tres Amigos project serves customers in the northern part of the Vallecitos Water District, northeast of Gopher Canyon Road, along Ormsby Drive and Fairview Drive, with a small extension onto Carrio Drive. The six and eight-inch thin-wall steel pipelines were originally installed in the 1950s and 1960s.

Due to aging and system impact over time, the pipeline had become prone to water main breaks as often as once a month, with considerable disruption for customers.

Long Lasting Relief for Vallecitos WD Customers

Aging thin-wall steel pipelines were responsible for as many as one break per month. Photo: Vallecitos Water District waterline replacement project

Aging thin-wall steel pipelines were responsible for as many as one break per month. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

The Vallecitos Board of Directors approved the replacement of 9,500 feet of pipeline most at risk. In addition, a key objective was to relocate the existing pipeline out of private residential backyards and into the roadways. This included relocating existing residential water meters for improved maintenance accessibility and safety.

Marissa Padilla, Vallecitos WD Capital Facilities Engineer, explained, “By upgrading the existing thin-walled steel pipeline to meet VWD’s current standards, we hope to provide long-lasting relief to our customers who have experienced recurring water main breaks and service interruptions in recent years.

“These improvements will also help reduce the strain on District resources by minimizing the need for ongoing emergency repairs.”

See video of the waterline repair project underway.

The aging steel pipelines are being replaced with new PVC pipes. The estimated lifespan of the new pipelines is 70 years.

The year-long project required extensive communication by the Vallecitos Water District and its contractor with affected residents whose water service would be temporarily disrupted to allow replacement of the pipeline, and coordination with property owners, allowing access by construction crews to remove and move the existing pipelines.

Resident Diane McDaniel said the water leaks had become a significant issue in their rural neighborhood. McDaniel said she was happy to learn about the project, despite the challenge presented by temporary water service disruptions and construction access.

“Vallecitos was always very good about notifying us through the phone system that we would be out of water until in the evening … They always got everything done ahead of time,” said McDaniel.

“I think it went really, really well. It went smoothly with all the input and help from the contractor, the Vallecitos Water District staff that was on the job.”

Construction crews were able to leave customer Diane McDaniel's backyard burial ground for her pets undisturbed. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Construction crews were able to leave customer Diane McDaniel’s backyard burial ground for her pets undisturbed. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Crews were even able to work with McDaniel to avoid disturbing an area of her property dedicated to a small pet graveyard near the existing water line that would be removed. “Holly and Goliath and Little Bit and Tutu, they’re all buried over there. And I thought, ‘Oh, my God, they’re going to be digging up dog bones and cat bones. They were able to avoid all that. That’s great!”

Resident Stuart McClure said the short-term inconvenience is an investment in the region’s future. He praised the district’s prompt response and efficient handling of issues, even at odd hours.

“Those breaks affect your life in a daily way. It’s surprising how important water is for our survival,” observed McClure. “It’s a major thing to have proper infrastructure.

“They might infringe upon your life for a few minutes, here and there. You’re going to get some valuable infrastructure that will serve you later on in life, especially if there’s a big fire.”

Project Prevents Future Breaks and Repairs

The replacement pipes made of PVC have a lifespan of 70 years and will prevent flooding like this long into the future. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

The replacement pipes made of PVC have a lifespan of 70 years and will prevent flooding like this long into the future. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

The installation of thicker, more durable PVC C900 DR 14 pipe is a significant improvement that will help prevent future breaks and repairs. Relocating the pipeline to more accessible areas will facilitate future maintenance and lessen the impact on local residents, securing a more reliable water system while also helping protect private properties.

Delivering safe, reliable water service while minimizing impacts to residents and the environment by investing in this infrastructure today will conserve a precious resource and ensure reliable service for generations to come.

Residents can learn more about the project on the Vallecitos Water District website.

 

 

The City of San Marcos replaced 11,000 square feet of nonfunctional turf through a new pilot program. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Partnerships Support San Marcos Turf Replacement Projects

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In an effort to conserve water and promote sustainable landscaping, California has enacted Assembly Bill 1572 (AB 1572), which prohibits the use of potable water for irrigating non-functional turf on specific property types, including commercial, industrial and institutional properties, and common areas of homeowners’ associations (HOAs).

Signed into law in 2023, it begins to take effect for different property categories from 2027 through 2031.

The City of San Marcos and the Vallecitos Water District applied to the San Diego County Water Authority’s Commercial Direct Install Program, a grant-supported pilot program accepting seven large-scale projects countywide. Eligible projects focus on nonfunctional turf replacement at commercial sites located in income qualifying neighborhoods.

Two sites in San Marcos were selected for this pilot program, along with two schools and three other locations in San Diego County.

Nonfunctional turf like in this before photo was replaced with low-water use landscaping. Photo: Vallecitos Water District turf replacement

Nonfunctional turf like in this before photo was replaced with watersmart landscaping. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

“We’re very grateful to the Water Authority and Vallecitos Water District for reaching out about this program,” said Amanda Haas, City of San Marcos park maintenance supervisor.

“They came to us, shared the idea and the concept. We instantly thought about Bradley Park having the turf removed and a drought-tolerant landscape installed. We hope it inspires the community to do the same thing, and we hope that other cities follow our lead,” explained Haas.

Bradley Park Project Leading The Way

Nonfunctional turf in Bradley Park next to a parking lot. Photo: Vallecitos Water District turf replacement

Nonfunctional turf in Bradley Park next to a parking lot. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Haas said Bradley Park was an ideal candidate. It is located in an income-qualifying neighborhood and is highly visible along busy Rancho Santa Fe Road, with 11,000 square feet of turf needing replacement. “It’s a good location to showcase a project like this because it is so visible,” said Haas.

Haas says the Bradley Park project helps the City of San Marcos meet ambitious goals to reduce water use in municipal landscapes.

The parking lot with new low-water use landscaping. Photo: Vallecitos Water District turf replacement

The parking lot filled with waterwise plants. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

“We’re reducing our turf print and we’re increasing beautiful plants, reducing our water use, taking advantage of good partnerships with the (Vallecitos) water district and the Water Authority,” said Haas.

Haas says having a program help subsidize the costs of turf replacement makes it an ideal time to pursue projects. “This helps us get ahead of the curve when it comes to fulfilling the state mandate to remove nonfunctional turf. We hope that it helps inspire the community to do the same thing in their landscapes.”

The second proposed project in the City of San Marcos is for a commercial building in operation since 1979 and well-known in the community, with more than 10,000 sq. ft. of turf to be replaced with watersmart landscaping. This 12,000 sq. ft. site, highly visible from the 78 freeway, will be replaced with a colorful watersmart plant palette.

For information on these plants and more, check out the Water Authority’s Nifty 50 and Happy 100 plant lists.

Watch a video review of the Bradley Park turf replacement project.

 

Who Must Comply With AB 1572?

  • Properties owned by state or local governments
  • Commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) properties
  • Common areas of HOAs and common interest developments

What is Nonfunctional Turf?

Nonfunctional turf is grass that serves only an aesthetic purpose, not used for recreation, and is irrigated with potable (drinking) water. Examples include:

  • Medians: Grass on medians and parking lots that serve no active purpose.
  • Commercial: Decorative grass areas on commercial and industrial properties, such as office buildings or hotel landscaping.
  • Entrances: Grass near commercial buildings, school grounds, and building entrances, used only for aesthetic purposes, is not allowed.

Properties using recycled water are exempt from AB 1572.

What is Considered Functional Turf?

Functional turf is grass that serves a useful purpose beyond just looking nice. It is turf or lawn actively used for recreation, sports, or community events.

It’s grass that people and pets walk, play, or gather on.

Examples include public parks, school fields, sports fields, and golf courses, used for recreation or civic events. Pet relief areas, veterinary offices, boarding facilities, animal shelters, and within cemeteries used for visitation and gathering are also considered functional turf.

This new law does not apply to residential properties and apartment buildings. There are also exemptions for trees and all non-turf plants.

Nonfunctional turf is replaced by new landscaping plus a walking path. Photo: Vallecitos Water District turf replacement

Nonfunctional turf is replaced by new landscaping plus a walking path. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Property maintenance staff must attend a training on proper maintenance, adhere to maintenance recommendations, and agree to maintain the landscape long term to participate in the Water Authority’s Direct Installation Landscape Program.

Each project includes a professional landscape design, irrigation upgrades, storm water retention features, Watermart plants included in the Water Authority’s “Happy 100” list, and trees where possible. It must comply with local city ordinances, including the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.

For more information about the Direct Installation Landscape Program or nonfunctional turf regulations, please contact Debby Dunn at or 858-522-6745.