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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

 

On National Hydration Day on June 23, fill up your reuseable bottle with tap water to stay healthy. Photo: GSquarePhoto

National Hydration Day Highlights Safe, Reliable Drinking Water

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National Hydration Day is June 23, a time to recognize the essential role of one of humanity’s resources: safe, reliable drinking water.

National Hydration Day was originally established in 1991 at the start of the summer season to remind athletes of the importance of hydration and to promote the benefits of proper hydration for overall health.

It also demonstrates the availability of the healthiest way to stay hydrated: the drinking water provided by water agencies like the 22 member agencies of the San Diego County Water Authority.

Hydration Matters To Your Health

Stay aware of your hydration by monitoring your thirst, especially when working or playing outdoors in warm summer weather. Photo: Nuzree

Stay aware of your hydration by monitoring your thirst, especially when working or playing outdoors in warm summer weather. Photo: Nuzree

Water makes up 50 to 70% of the healthy human body weight. It lubricates joints, regulates your body temperature, flushes toxins via urine and sweat, and supports every organ system from brain function to heart health.

Scientific studies underline hydration’s importance. Proper hydration supports cognitive performance, mood stability, and may slow age-related cellular decline.

The American Heart Association recommends that men drink about fifteen and a half cups of water and women drink about eleven and a half cups of water each day. Older adults should pay extra attention to hydration needs to prevent rapid fluid loss from decreased total body water or medication effects .

Water and water-rich foods are the best sources of hydration to keep your heart healthy and maintain a regulated temperature. Relying on sodas, sports drinks, or sweetened coffee and frozen drinks to stay hydrated can introduce too much sugar into your diet.

Safe Drinking Water Delivered Daily

Drought-Safe, Supply Investments-Carlsbad Desalination Plant-drought

The San Diego region’s diversified water supply portfolio includes highly reliable, locally controlled and drought-proof supplies from the Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

On National Hydration Day — and every day — the mission of the San Diego County Water Authority and its 22 member agencies is to ensure that every tap delivers water that meets or exceeds federal and state standards.

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 on a regular basis.

The delivery of safe water to the Water Authority’s 22 member agencies and their customers is the top priority for the Water Authority. Regular water quality monitoring and the use of online monitoring equipment ensure that the Water Authority is delivering high-quality, safe water to its member agencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Potable water supplied by the Water Authority to its member agencies comes from three primary sources. Whether the water is treated by the Metropolitan Water District, the Water Authority, or a local agency, all treated water served in San Diego County meets or exceeds rigorous state and federal water quality standards.

Each member water agency publishes an annual Water Quality Report, such as this example from the City of San Diego, and from the Padre Dam Municipal Water District, which provide details about treatment and compliance.

Are Your Hydration Habits Healthy?

Your lorikeet can get its drinking water this way. You should fill your reusable water bottles and chill them in the refrigerator for your cold drinking water. Photo Wade Tregaskis/CC

Your lorikeet can get its drinking water this way. Fill your reusable water bottles with water and chill them in the refrigerator for cold drinking water. Photo: Wade Tregaskis/CC

You can use National Hydration Day as a reminder to check your own hydration habits.

Make water your primary source of hydration. Fill your reuseable bottle with tap water and put it into your refrigerator at night so it’s ready and waiting for you in the morning.

Choosing tap water over bottled beverages is eco‑friendly, budget‑friendly, and health‑friendly. Public water systems are strictly regulated, while bottled water is less so. Reusable bottles reduce plastic waste. Save money and save the environment by using tap water.

If your taste buds need more variety than plain water, add lemon, cucumber, or mint to your reusable drinking water bottle. National flavoring can help you ensure you reach your daily hydration goals.

Learn the signs of dehydration from experts such as the Mayo Clinic, which can show up quickly during hot summer days, especially if you are outside and active. It is especially dangerous for infants, children, and older adults.

Commitment to Community Well‑Being

Work continues on the Water Authority's historic First Aqueduct to ensure safe, reliable water supplies for the San Diego region well into the future. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Work continues on the Water Authority’s historic First Aqueduct to ensure safe, reliable water supplies for the San Diego region well into the future. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Investments by the San Diego County Water Authority and its member agencies in treatment plants, pipeline maintenance, and highly trained water professionals at all levels ensure safe, reliable water is available to support your health on National Hydration Day and every day.

The installation of over 5,600 feet of new recycled water pipelines will result in more than 12.5 million gallons of drinking water saved every year. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

New OMWD Recycled Water Pipelines Provide Savings

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Construction is complete on new recycled water pipelines by the Olivenhain Municipal Water District (OMWD) in Carlsbad and Encinitas, resulting in significant annual drinking water savings.

The installation of over 5,600 feet of new pipelines will allow several HOA communities in the project area to convert their irrigation systems to recycled water, resulting in more than 12.5 million gallons of drinking water saved annually.

“Converting our irrigation system to recycled water was the right decision,” said Paul Heller, Summerhill HOA board president. “We’ll be less impacted by future droughts that could limit watering schedules, and recycled water is more affordable than drinking water, which will reduce costs for our residents.”

Grant Funding Makes Pipeline Project Cost-Effective For Ratepayers

OMWD secured more than $900,000 in grant funding to make the project cost-effective for ratepayers. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District recycled water pipelines

OMWD secured more than $900,000 in grant funding to make the project cost-effective for ratepayers. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

OMWD secured more than $900,000 in grant funding to make the project cost-effective for ratepayers. Grants from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Program and the California Department of Water Resources’ Integrated Regional Water Management Program contributed funds to offset project costs.

“Converting our commercial customers to recycled water for irrigation will help ease our dependence on imported water,” said OMWD board secretary Christy Guerin. “And by using grant funds to help with the costs involved, we’re minimizing the impacts to ratepayers.”

The project was completed on time and with no interruptions to customers’ water supplies.

Recycled water is locally produced, disinfected wastewater that is used for irrigation purposes. OMWD meets up to 15 percent of its overall demand with recycled water and continues to identify additional ways to make recycled water available to eligible customers.

Ensuring Reliable Water Supplies

The completion of the project will resulti in more than 12.5 million gallons of drinking water saved annually. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District recycled water pipelines

The completion of the project will result in more than 12.5 million gallons of drinking water saved annually. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

One hundred percent of OMWD’s drinking water supply is imported into the region. These sources are threatened by droughts and overuse.

Recycled water is locally produced, disinfected wastewater that is used for irrigation. Not only is it a drought-resilient supply, but recycled water also costs less than potable water. In addition, using recycled water reduces the amount of treated wastewater discharged into the ocean and reduces the dependence on imported water from distant sources.

The completion of the pipeline extensions will result in the conversion of 28 water meters from potable to recycled water, allowing large customers in Carlsbad and Encinitas, such as HOAs, to connect to OMWD’s recycled water distribution system.

OMWD Plays Leadership Role in Water Recycling Efforts

For the fifth time, the Olivenhain Municipal Water District's 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility received statewide recognition from CWEA. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

For the fifth time, the Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility received statewide recognition from CWEA. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

OMWD produces up to two million gallons of recycled water every day at its 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility, which began operation in 2003. Additionally, OMWD is the lead agency of the North San Diego Water Reuse Coalition, a group of nine North County agencies that coordinate across jurisdictional boundaries to expand the reach of the recycled water.

As a result, OMWD now serves up to 15 percent of its overall demand from recycled water and continues to identify additional ways to make recycled water available to eligible customers.

Water recycling is the process of capturing and treating wastewater for non-domestic purposes such as irrigation and industrial processes. By 2027, the volume of recycled water produced in the U.S. is projected to increase 37% from 4.8 billion gallons per day to 6.6 billion gallons per day, according to a recent survey by Bluefield Research.

(L to R) Staff from the City of La Mesa and the U.S. Green Building Council of California (USGBC) present the Green Business Certification to Helix Water District's board of directors. From left: City of La Mesa's Hilary Ego and Lainey Bloom, USGBC's Robert Carr, Division 2 Director Andrea Beth Damsky, Division 3 Director Mark Gracyk, Board President Dan McMillan, Division 4 Director Kathleen Coates Hedberg, and City of La Mesa's Logan Kelly and Serena Lee. Photo: Helix Water District

Helix Water District Recognized As Certified Green Business

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The California Green Business Network and the City of La Mesa presented the Helix Water District with its Green Business certification at the June board of directors meeting. Achieving this certification recognizes the district’s ongoing commitment to environmentally responsible business practices.

To achieve certification, businesses and government entities must meet an extensive set of core and elective measures covering seven categories: energy, pollution prevention, solid waste, transportation, wastewater, water, and community.

“Our district’s focus on sustainability also has financial benefits,” said Dan McMillan, Helix Water District board president. “We can make decisions that are good for the environment as well as the ratepayer’s wallet.”

The Helix Water District serves 278,000 people in San Diego’s east county suburbs.

Investments In Clean Energy Benefit Consumers

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 the Helix Water District’s energy consumption and budget costs. Photo Helix Water District

Helix has made significant investments in clean energy, securing a renewable energy supply through its power purchase agreement and further reducing its reliance on fossil fuels by installing solar panels at its Nat L. Eggert Operations Center. The agreement has delivered double-digit cost savings, reaching as high as 18% on electric commodity costs, over the last several years.

Helix has secured the renewable energy supply it needs through 2030.

The district currently fuels its fleet with 100% renewable diesel, which has reduced the district’s carbon emissions by an estimated 500 metric tons per year. It is also developing state-of-the-art charging infrastructure at its operations center to support its transition to an electric fleet.

This charging infrastructure is funded almost entirely through grants due to the district’s swift action in developing the project and securing funding.

Energy Efficiency Reduces Power Consumption and Costs

Helix also underwent a lighting retrofit and installed energy-efficient window coverings at its facilities. It also installed lighting controls, features a programmable smart thermostat, and ENERGY STAR appliances to reduce its electricity usage. Through retrofits and the implementation of energy-efficient appliances and measures, the district has reduced its electricity consumption by 15%.

Additionally, a key priority of the district is educating customers on the responsible use of water, promoting the adoption of high-efficiency appliances and irrigation, and encouraging the use of climate-appropriate landscaping. Helix models water efficiency at its facilities through the use of low-water-use toilets, faucets, appliances, and irrigation systems.

These efficiencies allow the district to reduce its water consumption and long-term water costs.

“This certification proves that a government agency can prioritize sustainability while managing public funds responsibly,” said Helix Water District Board Director Mark Gracyk. “The district is proud to be an industry leader in sustainable and fiscally responsible business practices.”

Helix Water District Demonstration Garden Offers Community Resource

The award winning Helix Water District Demonstration Garden offers ideas on conserving water and energy in your landscaping. Photo: Helix Water District Green Business

The award winning Helix Water District Demonstration Garden offers ideas on conserving water and energy in your landscaping. Photo: Helix Water District

In 2020, the Helix Water District installed drip irrigation and a low-water use demonstration garden at its administration office to reduce its outdoor water use and provide a resource to the community. The San Diego Architectural Foundation awarded the district a coveted Orchid Award for the project in 2023.

Visitors can see firsthand what plants thrive in the San Diego climate and what water-wise landscaping can look like.

Olivenhain Municipal Water District Logo landscape design workshops

OMWD Receives Highest Achievement for Financial Reporting for 30th Consecutive Year

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Encinitas, Calif. — Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors accepted at its May 21 meeting the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. The award recognizes OMWD’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

The annual report provides an overview of a government agency’s fiscal management, investment policies, and budget planning. The award represents a significant accomplishment by an agency, as GFOA states that it is the highest recognition that can be achieved in governmental accounting and financial reporting.

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Padre Dam Municipal Water District to Host Career Workshop

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Are you interested in landing a career in the water industry? Padre Dam Municipal Water District is hosting a career workshop at its Customer Service Center on Thursday, May 15 from 5:30 pm to 7 pm.

Those interested in a fulfilling career in public service are invited to hear from experts about jobs in the water industry, learn interview tips and tricks, and receive resume review. This event is open to the public, with an emphasis on entry-level professionals, career changes, and students.

 

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Olivenhain Municipal Water District Logo landscape design workshops

OMWD’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility Recognized as California’s 2024 Plant of the Year

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Encinitas, Calif. — Today, Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility was awarded California Water Environment Association’s statewide 2024 Plant of the Year (Small) award at CWEA’s Annual Conference in San Diego. The award acknowledges the facility’s innovation, regulatory compliance, and cost-effective operation.

In addition to being named California’s plant of the year, the facility received the same designation at the local level in February from CWEA’s San Diego Section.

“There are over a thousand wastewater treatment plants in California, and our district is honored to have 4S WRF named as CWEA’s Plant of the Year at the state level for the second time in three years,” said OMWD President Matthew R. Hahn.

 

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Otay Water District Logo

Otay Water District Kicks Off the 2025 WaterSmart Landscape Contest

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Spring Valley, Calif. – The Otay Water District has launched its annual WaterSmart Landscape Contest for residential customers. The program highlights the importance of outdoor water-use efficiency and awards customers for their dedication to making conservation a way of life. The deadline to enter is Friday, May 9, 2025.

The winner will receive the title of “Best in District” and a $250 gift card to a local plant nursery of their choice, along with a certificate, yard sign, and a goody bag. Entries are judged based on design, overall attractiveness, efficient irrigation methods, and appropriate plant selection and maintenance.

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Olivenhain Municipal Water District Logo landscape design workshops

Complimentary Waterwise Firescaping and Wildfire Preparedness Workshop

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Encinitas, Calif. —Olivenhain Municipal Water District invites the public to attend a free workshop about waterwise firescaping techniques and wildfire preparedness.

The workshop will be held on Saturday, April 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the OMWD boardroom, located at 1966 Olivenhain Road in Encinitas. Registration is required at www.olivenhain.com/events.

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(L to R) SDG&E EV Customer Solutions Manager Lianna Lienau, Helix Division 2 Director Andrea Beth Damsky, Helix Board Vice President Joel A. Scalzitti, Helix Board President Dan McMillan, Helix Division 3 Director Mark Gracyk, Helix Division 4 Director Kathleen Coates Hedberg, and San Diego County Air Pollution Control District Chief of Emissions Reductions Kathleen Keehan at the groundbreaking for the Helix electrification project at its El Cajon operations center. Photo: Helix Water District

Helix Water District Working Toward Zero-Emission Future

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As part of its initiative to transition to a zero-emission vehicle fleet, Helix Water District leaders broke ground in late March on a retrofitting project at the district’s operations center in El Cajon.

The $11 million project, which is almost entirely grant-funded, will increase electrical capacity and charging infrastructure needed for the transition at its operations center in El Cajon. The facility will also support other East County public agencies as they work towards electrifying their own vehicle fleets. 

Helix Preparing to Meet New California Requirements

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

While all new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California will be zero-emission by 2035, the state wants government agencies with vehicle fleets to get to zero emissions more quickly. By 2027, all new medium and heavy-duty truck purchases must be zero-emission vehicles.

The district’s fleet of vehicles is used by employees responsible for maintaining 742 miles of pipeline, valves, hydrants, and meters. While the Helix Water District first began purchasing electric vehicles in 2022 as part of its overall sustainability efforts, its current infrastructure requires upgrades to support an electric-only vehicle fleet.

“The Helix board of directors voted 5-0 to approve this project because this is the next step on the path we’ve chosen for our agency,” said board member Mark Gracyk.

“We have already reduced our energy use by 15% and our carbon footprint by 40%. This project will be a model for other agencies working to electrify their fleets and help the cities we serve meet their climate action plan goals.”

In addition to the major change in operations, the Helix Water District must maintain 24/7 readiness for emergency responses, with a vehicle fleet that requires time to recharge.

Partner Collaboration Makes Helix Project Possible

Helix Water District will work with SDG&E and the San Diego Air Pollution Control District to complete its project. Photo: Helix Water District

Helix Water District will work with SDG&E and the San Diego Air Pollution Control District to complete its project. Photo: Helix Water District

Retrofitting the district’s operations center to increase electrical capacity and installing the new infrastructure presented challenges. The Helix project team moved quickly to secure outside expertise and funding to get ahead of other public agencies in California competing for resources.

Through funding and technical support from the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District and San Diego Gas & Electric, Helix is ready to begin construction. The organizations guided the district through idea gathering, planning, designing, and equipment selection. The collaboration will continue through construction.

“This charging infrastructure project is particularly impactful for air quality in the area because the communities serviced by the Helix Water District have some of the highest levels of air pollution in San Diego County. SDAPCD looks forward to the full implementation of this project,” said Paula Forbis, Air Pollution Control Officer, San Diego County Air Pollution Control District.

“Our collaboration with Helix Water District and the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District exemplifies the power of partnerships in driving our progress to meeting California’s climate goals,” added Miguel Romero, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, SDG&E.

Helix Effort Meets Climate Action Plan Goals

The district’s fleet of vehicles is used by employees responsible for maintaining 742 miles of pipeline, valves, hydrants, and meters. Photo: Helix Water District Zero-emission

The district’s fleet of vehicles is used by employees responsible for maintaining 742 miles of pipeline, valves, hydrants, and meters. Photo: Helix Water District

Vehicle emissions are one of the highest sources of pollution in San Diego County. For this reason, SDAPCD considers the shift from diesel to electric vehicles one of the most impactful ways to improve air quality.

According to SDG&E, Helix Water District’s plan to transition 86 medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and install nearly six megawatts of charging infrastructure aligns with SDG&E’s mission to support public agencies and fleet operators in meeting California’s Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation and local climate action plan goals.

Helix received a $5.2 million grant from the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, a $2.2 million grant from San Diego Gas & Electric’s Power Your Drive for Fleets Program and an additional $1.5 million through the Disadvantaged Community Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate Program. The district will fund the remaining $2 million.

“We understood early on the impact that the state’s advanced clean fleet regulation would have on the district. The cost associated with projects of this size are significant and we did not want this to impact the communities we serve, many of which are low-income communities,” said Dan McMillan, board president of the Helix Water District.

“I want to thank, on behalf of the district, San Diego Gas & Electric and the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District for their financial support. Collaboration is the only way we can move projects like this forward.”

The electrification project will take approximately one year to complete.