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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.

 

 

Rainwater Harvesting Workshops Begin September 27 in Lakeside

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The County of San Diego’s Waterscape Rebate Program will host rainwater harvesting workshops throughout the fall months of 2025. It’s an ideal time for homeowners to explore their options for water-saving improvements that also benefit the San Diego region’s watershed.

The first rainwater harvesting workshop scheduled for Fall 2025 takes place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Lakeside Library, 12428 Woodside Ave, Lakeside.

As more rainwater harvesting workshops are scheduled, they will be listed on the County of San Diego’s Rainwater Harvesting webpage here. For more information, email .

Rebates For Water-Saving Improvements

Workshops can help San Diego County residents, businesses, and agricultural producers get cash rebates for water-saving improvements like efficient landscaping and irrigation upgrades. Photo: County of San Diego

Workshops can help San Diego County residents, businesses, and agricultural producers get cash rebates for water-saving improvements like efficient landscaping and irrigation upgrades. Photo: County of San Diego

The Waterscape Rebate Program helps San Diego County residents, businesses, and agricultural producers get cash rebates for water-saving improvements like efficient landscaping and irrigation upgrades.

The County of San Diego Watershed Protection Program (WPP) is dedicated to protecting the environment by preventing pollutants from entering local waterways. Funding the rebate program is one of many strategies for protecting water quality in our region.

When businesses and households make changes to reduce water use and use rainwater in their landscapes, we preserve healthy, safe waterways, more reliable water supplies, and can achieve costs savings at the same time.

If you live in unincorporated San Diego AND receive your water from the San Diego County Water Authority and their member agencies, you are eligible for ALL rebates listed under the County program. 

If you live in an incorporated city, including the City of San Diego, there are numerous rebates available for residents. Visit SoCal WaterSmart, the City of San Diego’s rebate page, or your local water agency’s website to learn more. Not sure who your water agency is? Find your water district here.

The Watershed Protection Program partners with Environmental Incentives to manage and distribute rebates to program participants. Other rebates are offered and distributed by program partners, the San Diego County Water Authority and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (through SoCal Water$mart).

The Waterscape Rebate Program supports a wide range of yard sizes and home setups. While using a contractor is not required, your project must follow all program requirements to qualify for a rebate.

Reduce Water Use, Save Money and Environment 

Learning how to reduce your water use benefits your wallet along with the watershed. Photo: County of San Diego

Learning how to reduce your water use benefits your wallet along with the watershed. Photo: County of San Diego

During San Diego County’s limited periods of rainfall, any rainwater captured from your roof and property saves money. It also helps the region maintain its water supplies.

Workshops introduce residents to several beautiful, efficient ways to save rainwater. In addition to rain barrels, directing downspouts to fill containers lets you choose how to use the rainwater you capture. The overflow should empty onto your yard or a landscape feature to infiltrate the excess flow into the soil. Rain chains can assist with this.

By using a rain barrel, San Diegans can collect water for later use, reduce runoff to the ocean, and save money on their water bill. Reducing runoff from driveways, streets, and sidewalks also keeps harmful pollutants from reaching beaches and waterways. Instead, we can redirect fresh rainwater to our plants that need it most.

Just one inch of rain yields 600 gallons per 1000 sq. ft. of roof space, depending on your roof configuration. That’s a lot of free, fresh water for San Diegans to divert and help their plants thrive. In addition to diverting rainwater, the rain barrels provided can store up to 50 gallons of rainwater for later use in a mosquito-proof container.

The County is committed to protecting the water quality in the region’s creeks, streams, and coastal areas. Runoff from irrigation, storms, and even faulty septic systems can bring pollutants to our waterways and threaten public health.

How Rain Barrel Rebates Work

After you purchase items eligible for rebates and have installed them, you can apply for rebates. Current rain barrel rebates are $35 and limited to two per household for most San Diego County residents. You can submit for multiple projects. Learn more at SoCal Water Smart.

For additional details on conservation rebate programs and to order rain barrels, visit the Solana Center For Environmental Innovation website for more information on rebate programs and to order rain barrels.

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Vista Irrigation District To Host Two Community Information Sessions

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Vista, Calif. — The Vista Irrigation District (district) will be hosting community information sessions at its headquarters building located at 1391 Engineer Street in Vista on Saturday September 13, 2025 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and Thursday September 18, 2025 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to share information about its water rate study and the proposed water rate and charge increases necessary to fund the cost of operations and critical systems improvements.

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A Reason To Survive (ARTS) interns co-designed, fabricated, and installed seven new pieces of community art at the Sweetwater Spigot, elevating a free water source and highlighting the importance of water conservation. Photo: A Reason To Survive

Ribbon Cutting For New Public Art at Sweetwater Spigot on Sept. 10

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Sweetwater Authority invites the public to a community celebration and ribbon cutting for a new public artwork project titled “Ripple Effect” at the Sweetwater Spigot, the only publicly owned well station providing potable drinking water in San Diego County.

The event takes place on Wednesday, September 10, at 9:30 a.m. in El Toyon Park in National City. The water station is located at 1925 E. 4th Street by El Toyon Park, near the Interstate 805 bridge.

The Sweetwater Spigot before and after its renovation and makeover. Photo: San Diego Architectural Foundation

The Sweetwater Spigot before and after its renovation and makeover. Photo: San Diego Architectural Foundation

Ripple Effect represents a community-based partnership between City of National City, the Sweetwater Authority, the nonprofit A Reason To Survive (ARTS), and the National City-based Design and Fabrication team at ARTIST AND EXILE dba F-GMENT, where young people co-designed, fabricated, and installed seven new pieces of community art, elevating a free water source and highlighting the importance of water conservation.

The City of National City obtained funding for the public art enhancement to beautify the water station area through Caltrans’ Clean California Grant Fund.

Ripple Effect is nominated this year in the Public Art category in the annual San Diego Architectural Foundation “Orchids & Onions” awards. SDAF recognizes projects in the built environment with an impact on the San Diego region, whether positive or negative.

ARTS Interns Create New Public Artwork at Sweetwater Spigot

A Reason To Survive (ARTS) intern Addie E. works on the artwork titled "Mother Nature’s Conversion of Conservation" now installed at the Sweetwater Spigot. Photo: A Reason To Survive

A Reason To Survive (ARTS) intern Addie E. works on the artwork titled “Mother Nature’s Conversion of Conservation” now installed at the Sweetwater Spigot. Photo: A Reason To Survive

Five interns from ARTS invested 300 hours of work through its apprenticeship training program. ARTS provides arts education focused on design thinking, cultural equity, and healing-centered engagement to youth in the South County communities of San Diego County.

ARTS Youth Intern Addie E. worked on “Mother Nature’s Conversion of Conservation,” one of the seven artworks. She said of the experience, “I think it’s made me quite confident. I feel very happy that I’ve been able to excel and that I’ve been able to have an impact in the community. I mean, this is already brightening people’s days! It’s only been here for a short while, but there’s just been so much positive feedback.”

The finished artwork "Mother Nature’s Conversion of Conservation" is already drawing attention from visitors. Photo: A Reason To Survive

The finished artwork “Mother Nature’s Conversion of Conservation” is already drawing attention from visitors. Photo: A Reason To Survive

Groundwater Sources Remain Key Water Supply

The free water station is operated by the Sweetwater Authority and is open to the public for drawing water from a local well.

The station draws water from the San Diego Formation. The San Diego Formation is a geological feature primarily composed of marine sandstone and conglomerate sediments. It was formed roughly 1.5 million to 3.5 million years ago. This thick wedge of sediment acts as an important aquifer in the region, with ample storage capacity in the Lower and Middle Sweetwater Basins.

This aquifer is one of two groundwater sources used by the Sweetwater Authority. It draws groundwater from deep wells located in the San Diego Formation to help supply water to its customers. It is naturally filtered, then disinfected, and tested for safety before being offered to the public.

Sweetwater Authority customers receive an average of 70% of their water from local water supplies, including the Sweetwater River and the San Diego Groundwater Formation. The remainder is obtained from imported water sources.

The public is invited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 10 for "Ripple Effect" at the Sweetwater Spigot. Photo: Sweetwater Authority

The public is invited to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 10 for “Ripple Effect” at the Sweetwater Spigot. Photo: Sweetwater Authority

Any member of the public can access the well water directly from the spigots. The Sweetwater Authority provides water free of charge as part of a commitment it made when it acquired the water wells from the city upon its formation in 1977.

 

Olivenhain Municipal Water District Logo landscape design workshops

OMWD Honored for Commitment to Safety

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Encinitas, Calif. – Today, Olivenhain Municipal Water District was honored with the McMurchie Excellence in Safety Award at the California Special Districts Association Annual Conference in Monterey. The award was presented by Special District Risk Management Authority for OMWD’s safety practices.

Each year, SDRMA selects two public agencies from its over 650 members for this award. To determine the award re

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The East County AWP construction team is working to install a 28-inch bypass pipeline along Mission Gorge Road. It is 20,500 linear feet, or about 3.9 miles long. Photo: East County AWP

Construction Heats Up This Summer On East County AWP

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Summer 2025 marks the third year of construction on the East County Advanced Water Purification Program facilities in Santee.

Progress on the East County Advanced Water Purification Program (East County AWP) continues on schedule at multiple East County locations, with significant steps forward reached as the project works its way toward completion.

The last piece of purified water pipeline was installed at Riverside Drive and Valle Vista Road in Lakeside. Photo: East County AWP

The last piece of purified water pipeline was installed at Riverside Drive and Valle Vista Road in Lakeside. Photo: East County AWP

A major project milestone was reached in June. Purified water pipeline construction is officially complete. The final 20-foot piece of the pipeline was installed in Lakeside last month.

Since construction began in 2022, just over 51,000 linear feet of purified water pipeline has been installed. This 10-mile pipeline will transport purified water from the East County AWP Facility in Santee to Lake Jennings. Restoration and roadway paving is wrapping up this portion of the project 

See a brief video update on the East County AWP progress here.

Mission Trails Regional Park Closures

Visitors to Mission Trails Regional Park may have seen the installation of a project bypass pipeline along the Father Junipero Serra Trail. This bypass pipeline serves to protect Mission Trails Regional Park against sewer spills once construction is underway to rehabilitate a sewer pipeline and install a new residuals pipeline.

Temporary closure of trailheads in Mission Trails Regional Park will take place through summer 2028. Photo: East County AWP

Temporary closure of trailheads in Mission Trails Regional Park will take place through summer 2028. Photo: East County AWP

The 28-inch bypass pipeline is being installed along the entire 2.6 mile stretch of the trail with crews working east to west, fusing the pipeline sections together and undergrounding it when they reach intersections and trailheads.

The project requires the temporary closure of trailheads for up to two to three-day periods from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

It has also resulted in a long-term closure of the Father Junipero Serra Trail to all vehicles from the gate near the Visitor Center to the Old Mission Dam parking lot. This closure will last through summer 2028. The trail will remain open to pedestrians and bicyclists.

Overnight Work Underway At Santee Lakes

Overnight work is underway at Santee Lakes for the East County AWP. Photo: East County AWP

Overnight work is underway at Santee Lakes for the East County AWP. Photo: East County AWP

Overnight work on the east side of Santee Lakes is now underway. Crews are working at various locations on the east road from the roundabout near the park entrance on Fanita Parkway up to the East County Advanced Water Treatment Facility, just north of the lakes.

A 20-inch sludge line is being installed using a trenchless construction method called sliplining which may result in noise and bright lights for nearby neighbors. This overnight work is expected to be completed by the end of November 2025.

Work will take place during the following days and hours:

Monday night to Thursday morning from 7 pm. to 6 a.m.

Thursday night to Saturday morning from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.

West Side of Santee Lakes Reopens For Summer

The west side of Santee Lakes is now reopened for recreation. Photo: East County AWP

The west side of Santee Lakes is now reopened for recreation. Photo: East County AWP

Great news for Santee Lakes visitors. The west road where wastewater and brine pipelines were being installed has been reopened. Pedestrians, bicyclists and cars are able to use the roadway following the completion of this pipeline work, marking another project milestone.

Interactive Map Keeps Residents Updated On Progress

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

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Vista Irrigation District Receives National Award For Financial Reporting

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Vista, Calif. — Vista Irrigation District has been presented with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its annual comprehensive financial report (ACFR) for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.  This certificate is the only national award for public sector financial reporting.
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Over 250 different species of flora and fauna, and more than 25 special status species are found in the San Miguel Habitat Management Area, a a 240-acre biological reserve owned and maintained by the Otay Water District. Photo: Otay Water District

Otay Water District Habitat Management Preserves Biodiversity, Water Quality

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The Otay Water District’s efforts to preserve local habitat contribute to the region’s biodiversity and support healthy ecosystems, which are crucial for maintaining water quality for its customers and throughout San Diego County.

The San Miguel Habitat Management Area (HMA) is a 240-acre biological reserve owned and maintained by the Otay Water District. It is located within the City of Chula Vista and lies at the base of Mount Miguel and the San Miguel Mountains, surrounded by water reservoirs and the former Salt Creek Golf Course.

Otay Environmental Compliance Specialist Juliana Luengas works to help preserve local habitat which contributes to the region’s biodiversity and supports healthy ecosystems, which are crucial for maintaining water quality. Photo: Otay Water District

Otay Environmental Compliance Specialist Juliana Luengas works to help preserve local habitat which contributes to the region’s biodiversity and supports healthy ecosystems, which are crucial for maintaining water quality. Photo: Otay Water District

The HMA was established in 1994 under a joint agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, fulfilling requirements established by the Endangered Species Act.

The HMA is comprised of wetlands, coastal sage scrub, and native grasslands. Over 250 different species of flora and fauna, and more than 25 special status species were found within the HMA in a 2022 survey. Some of these species include the coastal California gnatcatcher, the least Bell’s vireo, the Quino checkerspot butterfly, the burrowing owl, the coastal cactus wren, the Otay tarplant, and the variegated dudleya.

Mountain bluebirds are one of the bird species found in the San Miguel Habitat Management Area. Photo: Otay Water District

Mountain bluebirds are one of the bird species found in the San Miguel Habitat Management Area. Photo: Otay Water District

“The San Miguel Habitat Management Area reflects Otay’s commitment to protecting native species and preserving natural resources while delivering safe, reliable water to our community,” says Otay Environmental Compliance Specialist Juliana Luengas.

Habitat Preservation Helps Maintain Water Quality

Water agencies preserve habitat to ensure a sustainable and reliable water supply for current and future needs, while also supporting healthy ecosystems and communities. Habitat preservation is crucial for maintaining water quality, regulating water flow, and providing valuable ecosystem services. Healthy habitats also support biodiversity, protect endangered species, and enhance recreational opportunities.

Flower of the Otay tarplant, a species within the San Miguel Habitat Management area. Photo: Otay Water District

In 2023, the Otay Water District was awarded a grant through the SANDAG TransNet Environmental Mitigation Program for Threat Reduction in the HMA. This program has allocated $4 million annually to help maintain the biological integrity of San Diego County.

Ongoing activities within the San Miguel HMA include updating wildlife surveys and site maintenance.

Public Help Needed To Prevent Trespassing Damage to Habitat

Posted signs remind the public about the need for habitat preservation by avoiding trespassing in the San Miguel HMA. Photo: Otay Water District

Posted signs remind the public about the need for habitat preservation by avoiding trespassing in the San Miguel HMA. Photo: Otay Water District

Recently, the Otay Water District has been using these funds to combat the increased threat of illegal trespassing. The HMA has experienced increased illegal entrance and the creation of trails, which have caused severe damage to native habitats and sensitive species it was created to protect.

The District aims to reduce the number of recreational trespassers, including mountain bikers, hikers, dirt bikers, and ATV riders along the perimeter fencing, and reduce disturbance to habitats throughout the HMA.

Members of the community are reminded that the San Miguel HMA is private property, and recreational use or any trespassing, such as hiking or biking, is not permitted. The public is asked to refrain from feeding wildlife or littering.

Violations will result in arrests, fines, vehicle confiscation, and prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. Residents are asked to report any trespassing by calling the City of Chula Vista Police at (619) 691-5151.

More information about the San Miguel HMA can be found at otaywater.gov/HMA.

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Vista Irrigation District’s Annual Water Quality Report Available Online

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Vista Irrigation District’s Consumer Confidence Report, also known as the annual water quality report, is available to be viewed online.  English and Spanish versions of the report are available for download from the district’s website.

In 2024, as in past years, the district’s tap water met all federal and state safe drinking water standards.

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The R.M. Levy Water Treatment Plant in Lakeside treats 87.8% of the Helix Water District's water to the highest state and federal water quality standards. Photo: Helix Water District

Helix Water District Water Quality Report: 100% Compliance

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The Helix Water District’s new 2024 Water Quality Report shows that throughout 2024, the district continued to deliver healthy, top-quality drinking water, which was 100% compliant with federal and state standards.

The characteristics of each specific local water supply depend on its original source and the route it travels through rock, soil, lakes, and rivers. Helix WD manages the characteristics of each water source through its multi-step treatment process.

In 2024, 58% of the Helix Water District’s supply came from the Colorado River, 25% came from Lake Cuyamaca and creeks in the mountains east of San Diego, and 17% came from Northern California through the State Water Project.

All raw water, whether imported or local, is treated before entering the Helix Water District distribution system. In 2024, 87.8% of the District’s water was treated at Helix Water District’s R.M. Levy Water Treatment Plant in Lakeside.

The remaining 12.2% of water was purchased through the San Diego County Water Authority and treated at the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s R.A. Skinner Treatment Plant, the Water Authority’s Twin Oaks Valley Water Treatment Plant, and/or the Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant.

Experts Behind Water Quality at Helix Water District

The Helix Water District uses ozone generators to reduce the use of chlorine as a primary disinfectant. Ozone inactivates a wide range of microorganisms, needs little contact time with the water, and it eliminates most of the odor and taste issues some people associate with tap water. Photo: Helix Water DIstrict ozone disinfection

The Helix Water District uses ozone generators to reduce the use of chlorine as a primary disinfectant. Ozone inactivates a wide range of microorganisms, needs little contact time with the water, and it eliminates most of the odor and taste issues some people associate with tap water. Photo: Helix Water District

Federally regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act, public water systems are monitored for contaminants, including microbial threats, chemical hazards, or disinfection byproducts. All water and wastewater systems are regularly tested to ensure quality.

Each day of the year, state-certified staff at the Helix Water District conduct hands-on testing in the field and in its lab. Over 200 water samples are collected and analyzed every 24 hours to ensure its drinking water meets all safety standards. Water quality testing continuously monitors the treatment process, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“I wish all of our customers could meet our treatment staff,” said Helix General Manager Brian Olney. “Their expertise and experience goes into every drop of water we produce. They are at the forefront of the water industry and are committed to keeping the communities we serve healthy and happy.”

The 2024 Water Quality Report explains the water quality standards mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the State of California, and presents Helix’s water quality data for each standard. As in years past, Helix’s tap water outperformed all standards.

Water Quality Report Available To Customers

The Helix Water District's 2024 Water Quality Report is available online in both English and Spanish.

The Helix Water District’s 2024 Water Quality Report is available online in both English and Spanish.

For questions about the report, please email the Helix Water District water quality staff at or call (619) 667-6248.

The delivery of safe water to the Water Authority’s 22 member agencies and their customers is the top priority for the Water Authority through regular water quality monitoring, supported through investments in ongoing maintenance.

Helix Water District is a not-for-profit, local government agency responsible for tap water in San Diego’s East County suburbs. The district provides water treatment for 500,000 residents and distributes water to 278,000 people in the cities of El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove, the community of Spring Valley, and areas of Lakeside