Supply & Demand Archives

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

June 26, 2025/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

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

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.

in English at fyi/wqr2024-english
In Spanish at fyi/wqr2024-espanol

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

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

June 13, 2025/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

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

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

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): California Department of Water Resources staff Angelique Fabbiani-Leon, State Hydrometeorologist; Jordan Thoennes, Water Resources Engineer; and Andy Reising, Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager, conduct the third California snowpack survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada. Photo: Xavier Mascareñas, California Department of Water Resources

California Snowpack Helped By Storms, But Averages Continue To Drop

March 3, 2025/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) conducted its third snow survey of the 2025 season on February 28 at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada. The survey recorded 34 inches of snow depth and a snow water equivalent of 13.5 inches, which is 58 percent of the average for this location. Statewide, the snowpack is 85 percent of the average for this date.

The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast.

Weather Extremes Mark 2025 Season

Snow blankets the meadow where the California Department of Water Resources conducts the third media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada, approximately 90 miles east of Sacramento off Highway 50 in El Dorado County. Photo: Xavier Mascareñas, California Department of Water Resources

Winter 2025 has been subjected to weather extremes. Powerful storms have interrupted dry and warm conditions, temporarily boosting the snowpack to near normal.

In February, multiple rounds of atmospheric rivers earlier in the month raised the statewide snowpack to 97 percent of average. But dry weather conditions returned, and the snowpack has fallen to 85 percent. Averages will continue to drop without additional snow.

DWR’s electronic readings from 130 stations placed throughout the Sierra Nevada indicate that the statewide snowpack’s snow water sits at 74 percent of the critical April 1 average. This is when the California snowpack usually peaks.

Snow blankets the meadow where the California Department of Water Resources conducts the third media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada. The snow survey is held approximately 90 miles east of Sacramento off Highway 50 in El Dorado County.  Photo: Xavier Mascareñas, California Department of Water Resources

While forecasts show storm activity may pick up in March, it may not be enough for the snowpack to catch up to average by April 1. The southern Sierra Nevada has significantly fallen behind this season, with the region’s snowpack just 70 percent of average.

Regional Differences In Watershed Averages

Puddles from melting snow at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada.  Photo: Xavier Mascareñas, California Department of Water Resources

“In addition to the large swings in snowpack conditions we’ve seen this year, a big regional disparity remains between the Northern, Central, and Southern Sierra Nevada,” said Andy Reising, manager of DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit.

“With so many of this season’s storms missing the southern half of the state, our statewide snowpack average can mask just how below average some regions are,” explained Reising. “Water managers will need to consider not just the extreme swings through the winter and spring months, but also the big differences from watershed to watershed.”

Thanks to efforts to capture as much water as possible, reservoirs across California are currently 118 percent of average.

Snowpack Monitoring Vital Planning Tool

California Department of Water Resources staff Angelique Fabbiani-Leon, left, State Hydrometeorologist, and Andy Reising, Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager, conduct the third media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada.  Photo: Nick Shockey, California Department of Water Resources

Measuring the California snowpack provides vital information to guide how California’s water supplies are managed. The data and measurements collected help inform water supply and snowmelt runoff forecasts, which help water managers, including those in the San Diego region, anticipate how much water will eventually reach state reservoirs in the spring and summer.

This information is also key in calculating State Water Project allocation monthly updates.

On average, the California snowpack supplies about 30 percent of the state’s water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why the snowpack is often referred to as California’s “frozen reservoir.”

Data from DWR snow surveys and forecasts helps determine how DWR and other agencies manage the state’s water resources.

DWR conducts snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April, and, if necessary, May. The following survey is tentatively scheduled for April 2.

For California’s current hydrological conditions, visit https://cww.water.ca.gov.

Members of the California Department of Water Resources Snow Survey team conduct measurements during the second media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada.  Photo: Xavier Mascareñas, California Department of Water Resources

Snowpack Dips Well Below Average in Second Snow Survey of Season

February 24, 2025/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

Dry weather in January led to a reduced snowpack in the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) second snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada.

The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast. The snow survey takes place approximately 90 miles east of Sacramento off Highway 50 in El Dorado County. Statewide, the snowpack is 65 percent of the average for this date.

Extremely Dry Conditions in January Put Dent in Early Season Start

(L to R): Anthony Burdock, Water Resources Engineer, Andy Reising, Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager, and Chan Modini, Water Resources Engineer, conducted the second media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada on  January 31, 2025. Photo: Xavier Mascareñas, California Department of Water Resources

On January 1, the statewide snowpack was 108 percent of average after a series of large storms in November and December boosted snow totals. An excessively dry January has pushed the Northern Sierra back to near average, the Central Sierra to 58 percent of average, and has led the Southern Sierra Nevada to fall to under 50 percent of average.

“Despite a good start to the snowpack in the Northern Sierra in November and December, we can look back as recently as 2013 and 2021 to show how quickly conditions can change for the drier,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “California missed out on critical snow-building storms in January which has pushed the state down below average for this time of year.

“While we are excited to see some storm activity in the coming days, sustained periods of no precipitation can dry the state out very quickly. For each day it’s not snowing or raining, we are not keeping up with what we need.”

Although forecasts show storm activity may pick up this month, large early-season snow totals do not guarantee the state will reach average or above-average water supply totals.

Effective Water Management Keeps Statewide Reservoirs Near or Above Average

A drone view of Loafer Point Stage 2 Boat Ramp and Bidwell Canyon Marina at Lake Oroville in Butte County, California in late December. The water storage was 2,008,215 acre-feet (AF), 59 percent of the total capacity. Photo: Ken James, California Department of Water Resources

California has effectively managed its reservoirs to keep storage above average for this time of year. Lake Oroville, the State Water Project’s largest reservoir, is currently at 126 percent of average for this time of year. San Luis Reservoir, which is jointly operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, is at 101 percent of average for this time of year.

Reservoirs in Southern California are also near or above their historical averages.

Measuring California’s snowpack is a key component of managing its water supplies. The data and measurements collected help inform water supply and snowmelt runoff forecasts which help water managers plan for how much water will eventually reach state reservoirs in the spring and summer.

This information is also key in calculating State Water Project allocation forecasts each month.

Despite some recent rain, Southern California, including San Diego County, has still experienced well below-average precipitation in the current water year.

On average, California’s snowpack supplies about 30 percent of California’s water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why California’s snowpack is often referred to as California’s “frozen reservoir.”

The next survey is tentatively scheduled for February 28. For California’s current hydrological conditions, visit https://cww.water.ca.gov

Restoration efforts are making headway in Santee and Lakeside. This includes the use of hydroseeding - the spraying of a mulch type mixture with seeds and a binding agent in order to prevent erosion and protect the seeds. Photo: East County AWP

East County AWP Updates Construction Progress for 2025

February 6, 2025/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

Progress on the East County Advanced Water Purification Program (East County AWP) continues on schedule at multiple East County locations, with an increasing number of milestones being reached as the project nears completion in 2025.

The East County Advanced Water Purification Program is an important water project for East San Diego County. When complete, it will deliver a clean, reliable, and local water source.

See a time-lapse video of 12 months of construction from January through December 2024.

Over the last 12 months, many milestones have been accomplished, including:

Completion of the purified water pipelines in Santee
Fanita Parkway has been repaved, curbs and sidewalks restored, and construction equipment removed
Completed 95% of concrete pouring required for the site
Completed 78% of all water pipeline construction
Installed the Lake Jennings inlet to allow purified water to flow into the lake before it is treated at the R.M. Levy Water Treatment Plant

The East County AWP achieved significant milestones in 2024, with more ahead in 2025.

Construction is set to begin in spring 2025 on a newly approved phase of the project that will include work within Mission Trails Regional Park. This phase includes the rehabilitation of the existing East Mission Gorge Force Main, which will help add capacity for increased sewer flows during rainy weather to the City of San Diego for treatment.

It also includes the construction of new pipelines in the East County to manage residuals, which are the organic residues removed from wastewater during the treatment process, sending them from the East County AWP Project around the City of San Diego’s Pure Water Program facilities as a regional solution to residuals management.

Tour the latest East County AWP construction progress in this video update.

Purified Water Pipeline Construction and Road Closures

Work on pipelines is ongoing in Lakeside at the following areas:

Riverside Drive from Riverford Road to Rio Camino
Channel Road from the bridge to Rio Camino
Channel Road from the bridge to Mapleview Street

Expect reduced travel lanes at these locations. Crews have completed purified water pipeline installation along Mast Boulevard, which is being followed by final roadway paving.

Final paving entails grinding and overlaying the existing roadway to be replaced with new asphalt. Crews use a remote-controlled trench roller to compact the top layer of material when paving the roadway.

Jack and bore excavation work is underway near State Route 67 and Mapleview Street in Lakeside ahead of purified water pipeline installation. Photo: East County AWP

Restoration Efforts Underway in Santee and Lakeside

As part of restoration efforts, residents may see hydroseeding, the spraying of a mulch-type mixture with seeds, and a binding agent to prevent erosion and protect the seeds.

Newly hydro-seeded areas along Fanita Parkway in Santee, where pipeline construction is complete. Photo: East County AWP

Hydroseeding work is nearly complete along Fanita Parkway in Santee, with final work to be completed this spring. In addition to newly installed plants, El Monte Road in Lakeside was also recently hydro-seeded.

Avoid walking, dog walking, biking, jogging, and driving in hydro-seeded areas. These activities prolong the revegetation efforts and the length of time these areas are closed to the public.

Protecting Bird Species During Construction

Compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and general protection of wildlife within the project vicinity allows birds like this Bald Eagle to safely nest in the construction area during breeding season. Photo: East County AWP

Compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and general wildlife protection within the project vicinity allows birds like this Bald Eagle to safely nest in the construction area during breeding season. Photo: East County AWP

The East County AWP project is committed to complying with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and protecting wildlife within the project areas.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects common, game, and special-status bird species across the United States. This protection includes nests, eggs, and young. With the spring bird breeding season now underway, larger birds such as hawks, owls, and crows build their nests early in the season. Smaller songbirds start nesting in early spring.

If additional vegetation clearing is required, biologists supervise clearance once the absence of nesting is confirmed.

Stay Updated On Program Progress With Interactive Map

When completed, water from this project will be provided 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 continues to be a valuable 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

Full Story

California Department of Water Resources Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager Andy Reising conducts the first media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada. Photo: Nick Shockey, California Department of Water Resources

Sierra Snowpack Near Average In First 2025 Survey

January 13, 2025/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) conducted the first snow survey of the 2025 season on January 2 at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada, with positive news about the state’s water supply.

The survey recorded 24 inches of snow depth and a snow water equivalent of nine inches. This is 91 percent of the average at this location. The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water contained in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast. Statewide, the snowpack is 108 percent of average to date, compared to 28 percent for the January 2024 survey.

California Department of Water Resources staff members (from right) Andy Reising, Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager, Manon von Kaenel, Water Resources Engineer, Jordan Thoennes, Water Resources Engineer, and Angelique Fabbiani-Leon, State Hydrometeorologist, conduct the first media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada. Photo: Nick Shockey, California Department of Water Resources

In recent years, California has been marked by extremely hot and dry conditions broken up by periods of intense rain and snow, including late 2024 and early 2025. A record-breaking hot and dry summer continued well into the fall, but a powerful atmospheric river in November broke several rainfall records in Northern California. December storms provided another boost.

“While our snowpack looks good now, we have a long way until April, when our water supply picture will be more complete,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “Extreme shifts between dry and wet conditions are continuing this winter, and if the past several years are any indication, anything could happen between now and April, and we need to be prepared.”

Too Early To Predict 2025 Weather Patterns

On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30 percent of California’s statewide water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why the Sierra snowpack is often referred to as California’s “frozen reservoir.” Photo: Nick Shockey, California Department of Water Resources

This weather pattern is not unusual for California. In 2013 and 2022, early storm activity was followed by dry conditions, erasing early-season snow totals and continuing existing drought conditions across the state. It is too early to know whether this condition will occur in 2025.

“We are fortunate to have had several solid snow-producing atmospheric river systems so far this season,” said DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager Andy Reising. “The fall was extremely dry, so our healthy snow totals are thanks to a handful of big storm systems in November and late December. But to finish the year where we need to be, we will still need additional snow building at a regular pace throughout the winter.”

On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30 percent of California’s statewide water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why the Sierra snowpack is often referred to as California’s “frozen reservoir.”

San Diego Leadership In Water Supply Management

San Diego County residents can continue to use water wisely including in their low water use landscaping. Photo: Helix Water District

For the past decade, San Diego County has been insulated from drought-induced cutbacks due to the long-term investments in secure water supplies, a strategy that emerged in the early 1990s following an economically devastating drought. Since 1990, the region has dramatically cut water demands, reducing per capita water use by more than 50 percent. Water conservation has become a “way of life” for the region’s residents and businesses.

Water Authority Water Resources Specialist Efren Lopez says San Diego County has a reliable supply from the Colorado River and other parts of the state, supplemented by its long-term supply diversification.

“Feel free to irrigate your landscapes, to water your trees and to use water as you need,” said Lopez. “We don’t have any restrictions on water use, and we have very reliable water supplies.”

Lack of Local Precipitation Affects Fire Risk

Winter rains have helped vegetation grow in recent years, providing more fuel for fires. The US Drought Monitor puts all of San Diego County at a moderate drought level. Parts of Imperial County are in severe and extreme drought.

Major reservoirs statewide are currently 121 percent of average thanks to two years of above-average snowpack conditions. DWR prepares for annual extremes by investing in climate resilience to ensure California is able to capture and use as much water during flood conditions as possible.

DWR conducts four media-oriented snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April and, if necessary, May. The next survey is tentatively scheduled for early February.

(L to R) Escondido City Manager Sean McGlynn; Escondido Director of Utilities Angela Morrow PE; Escondido City Councilmember Michael Morasco; Deputy Mayor Christian Garcia; Escondido Mayor Dane White; Councilmember Consuelo Martinez; Councilmember Joe Garcia; Escondido Deputy City Manager Chris McKinney. Photo: City of Escondido water reuse

New Escondido Water Reuse Plant Supports Area Farmers

September 5, 2024/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

The City of Escondido achieved an important milestone in its efforts to create a high-quality alternative water source to support its local agricultural growers in August.

The city and its partners, including the Filanc Brown and Caldwell (FBC) Joint Venture, dedicated the newly completed water reuse treatment plant at an August 28 event. The AgX Membrane Filtration Reverse Osmosis Facility for Agriculture (MFRO Facility) is a first-of-its-kind facility producing water for agricultural use in California.

The new $65 million facility completed construction in November 2023.

Lowering costs, increasing water supply resilience

The exterior of the new AgX Membrane Filtration Reverse Osmosis Facility for Agriculture (MFRO Facility), a first-of-its-kind facility producing water for agricultural use in California. Photo: City of Escondido

The AgX MFRO Facility takes water redirected from an ocean outfall, which was reaching capacity and would have cost hundreds of millions of dollars to upsize. Water is now redirected to the MFRO Facility and treated for beneficial reuse by producing water with salinity (salt) levels ideal for agriculture, such as avocado growers.

Farmers benefit from paying lower water rates. With agricultural water use shifted to this new supply, potable water the farmers previously used is now available for other users, increasing local water resiliency.

This project is a rare win-win water solution for augmenting supply while alleviating demand. In an era of water scarcity, it provides a sustainable, local supply and a cost-effective alternative to potable water.

“This is an important milestone for Escondido’s recycled water system,” said Angela Morrow, City of Escondido Director of Utilities. “The MFRO Facility will provide a reliable, affordable, and high-quality water supply to our agricultural community for generations to come while beneficially reusing wastewater and reducing our reliance on imported water.”

Escondido water reuse project funded through multiple agreements

Escondido Mayor Dane White at the ribbon cutting for the new AgX Membrane Filtration Reverse Osmosis Facility for Agriculture (MFRO Facility). Photo: City of Escondido

Funding for this project was provided in full or in part through an agreement with the State Water Resources Control Board and in part through agreements with the United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, and State of California, Department of Water Resources.

Headquartered in Escondido, Filanc is an award-winning general engineering and design-build contractor that solely constructs, renovates, and expands water and wastewater treatment, biosolids management, and waste-to-energy facilities throughout the Western United States.

Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, Brown and Caldwell is a full-service environmental engineering and construction services firm with 50 offices and over 2,100 professionals across North America and the Pacific in operation for 75 years.

An overhead view of construction progress on the East County Advanced Water Purification program Education Center. Photo: East County AWP Padre Dam

East County Advanced Water Program Summer Progress Report

August 13, 2024/in Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

Significant work has been completed on the East County Advanced Water Purification Program (East County AWP) since construction began more than two years ago in June 2022. Multiple milestones have been achieved through the first half of 2024, with construction continuing at multiple East County locations through 2025.

The East County Advanced Water Purification Program is an important water project for East San Diego County. When complete, it will deliver a clean, reliable and local water source.

Construction reached a significant milestone in July, completing 58% of the purified water pipeline installation. This 10-mile pipeline will transport purified water from north of Santee Lakes to Lake Jennings.

Elements currently under construction in parts of Santee and Lakeside include:

Installing a 10-mile purified water pipeline
Constructing wastewater/residual pipelines and pump station upgrades
Building water treatment facilities, operations center, laboratory, and public education center

Work underway at Lake Jennings

Lake Jennings is expected to be restored to full capacity later this summer. Photo: East County AWP

Crews are working to connect the purified water pipeline to Lake Jennings on the north end of the lake in Half Moon Cove. In April 2024, Helix Water District temporarily lowered Lake Jennings by approximately 23 feet to make this work possible. Helix completed its work on the reservoir’s outlet tower and is refilling the lake.

The lake is expected to be restored to full capacity later this summer. Click here for additional lake updates. Minor work nearby will require occasional, short-term closures of the Flume Trail.

Purified water is expected to start flowing into Lake Jennings in 2026. The water will mix with local and imported water, followed by treatment at the R.M. Levy Water Treatment Plant and then distributed to the community.

Treatment facilities taking shape

Roads have reopened at Lakes 3 and 4 at the Santee Lakes Recreational Preserve. Photo: East County AWP

Construction of the treatment facilities north of Santee Lakes is progressing, with roughly 80% of the concrete (42,000 cubic yards) poured. Once complete, 52,400 cubic yards of concrete will be used—enough to fill 16 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

The advanced water purification, water recycling and solids handling facilities are being built, as well as an operations center to house the operation controls, laboratory, and education center. The public will be invited to visit the interactive lobby and to tour the facilities once the program goes online.

Wastewater and residual pipelines currently under construction run parallel to each other and are each 3.5 miles long. They will connect the water recycling facility north of Santee Lakes to the pump station near the westbound onramp to Route 52.

An example of a trenchless construction method called horizontal directional drilling. Photo: East County AWP

The residuals pipeline has been successfully installed under the Carlton Oaks Golf Course and San Diego River using a trenchless construction method called horizontal directional drilling. This method is used instead of digging a conventional open trench, minimizing environmental impacts.

More than 100,000 pounds of pulling force was required for this operation. The installation of the wastewater pipeline running parallel, using the same method, is anticipated by early 2025.

Water from this project will be provided to customers in Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Helix Water District, Lakeside Water District service areas, and the northern portion of the Otay Water District.

Traffic affected in Santee and Lakeside construction zones

Construction has affected traffic in several areas.

In Santee, wastewater pipeline construction is underway on Fanita Parkway near Lake Canyon Road. When traveling in the area, expect one-way traffic control with delays of up to five minutes. Flaggers are assisting drivers in navigating around the construction zone.

Elsewhere, purified water pipeline construction continues from Park Center Drive, heading west toward Fanita Parkway in Santee. Road paving is complete between Magnolia Avenue and Park Center Drive, and between Cambury Drive and Halberns Boulevard. All of this work has resulted in traffic control with lane closures.

Drivers should plan additional traveling time on Mapleview and Ashwood Streets. Work will continue in this area over the next few weeks. Photo: East County AWP East County Advanced Water

Drivers should plan additional traveling time on Mapleview and Ashwood Streets in Lakeside. Work will continue in this area over the next few weeks. Photo: East County AWP

In Lakeside, temporary traffic control with reduced lanes is also in place next to El Capitan High School. Drivers should plan additional traveling time on Mapleview and Ashwood Streets. Work will continue in this area over the next few weeks. On Riverside Drive, construction recently got underway near Rio Camino and is expected to last for the next couple of months.

Purified water pipeline installation along the Channel Road Bridge is complete. Crews will soon shift work locations to State Route 67 and on the west side of the freeway on Mapleview. Pipeline installation under State Route 67 will be achieved using another trenchless construction method called ‘jack and bore.’

To stay up-to-date with project schedules, community impacts, and work descriptions, check the East County Advanced Water Purification Program’s interactive map at www.eastcountyawp.com or visit @eastcountyawp on social media.

The R.M. Levy Water Treatment Plant operated by the Helix Water District. Photo: Helix Water District

Helix Water District Releases Water Quality Report

June 17, 2024/in Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

Helix Water District’s newly released 2023 Water Quality Report shows that throughout 2023, the district continued to deliver top-quality drinking water that meets all federal and state drinking water regulations.

What water supplies contain depends on where they come from. As water travels through rock, soils, and rivers, it takes with it the characteristics of those environments. In 2023, 54% of Helix water came from Lake Cuyamaca and local creeks, after winter storms dropped 58 inches of rain and snow on the mountains east of San Diego.

The Colorado River provided 26% of the district’s water supply. The remaining 20% came from rivers in Northern California through the State Water Project. Helix manages the characteristics of each water source through its multistep treatment process.

“Our system operators carefully blend the water from each of our sources to improve water quality, and our on-site chemist and biologist work hand in glove with our water treatment plant operators,” said Helix Water District General Manager Brian Olney. “It takes a highly trained and very committed team to maintain our level of water quality year after year.”

The 2023 Water Quality Report explains the water quality standards mandated through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state of California regulations. It presents Helix Water District’s water quality data for each standard. As in years past, the district’s tap water met all standards.

To view the report in English

Go to hwd.fyi/wqr2023-english

To view the report in Spanish

Go to hwd.fyi/wqr2023-espanol

To request a printed report

Please email or call 619-466-0585

For questions about water quality

Go to hwd.fyi/water-quality-faqs, email or call 619-667-6248

As soon as 2026, the East County Advanced Water Program will deliver water to the faucets of customers. Photo: East County AWP milestone

East County Advanced Water Program Hits Multiple Milestones

March 8, 2024/in News, Supply & Demand /by Gayle Falkenthal

Work on the East County Advanced Water Purification Program facilities and pipelines reached multiple milestones at the start of 2024, and construction continues on schedule at multiple East County locations through 2025. As soon as 2026, the AWP will deliver water to the faucets of customers in the Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Helix Water District, Lakeside Water District service areas, and the northern portion of the Otay Water District service area.

At the main construction site north of Santee Lakes, more than 60% of the concrete has been poured for the water recycling, solids handling, and advanced water purification facilities. Nearly 60% of the 2.3 total miles of open-cut construction on wastewater pipelines that make up the AWP Program are complete.

More than 60% of the concrete has been poured for the East County Advanced Water Program water recycling, solids handling and advanced water purification facilities. Photo: East County AWP

Construction also continues on Fanita Parkway, north of Ganley Road in Santee, and within Santee Lakes Recreational Preserve. Pipeline water testing is now underway on that installed pipeline.

Work on the pipelines for the East County Advanced Water Program is affecting access to the Santee Lakes Recreational Preserve, which remains open. Photo: East County AWP

In addition, pipeline work at Santee Lakes is occurring between Lakes 3 and 4. There is a road closure and no parking in some areas. The Kiwanis Playground at Lake 4 remains open and parking has been preserved for playground visitors.

“Roughly a year and a half ago, we started with a blank slate and since then, the Joint Powers Authority and its project partners have made significant achievements at each of the construction sites,” said Mark Niemiec, director of the East County AWP. “It’s during these ongoing activities within the community including at Santee Lakes that we really appreciate our neighbors’ patience and understanding.”

Pipeline undergrounding scheduled this spring

These new pipelines servicing the East County Advanced Water Program will soon be moved underground. Photo: East County AWP

The wastewater pipelines that will run from the East Mission Gorge Pump Station near State Route 52 to the first lake at Santee Lakes will soon be pulled underground. This trenchless construction method called “Horizontal Directional Drilling” minimizes the impacts to nearby waterways, including the San Diego River. The process takes an estimated 24 to 36 straight hours.

Elsewhere, Fanita Parkway will be temporarily closed for up to one week in March between Ganley Road and Lake Canyon Road to allow for paving on both sides of the street. Residents will see detour signs prior to the closure. The road closure will occur during the day from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Purified water pipeline construction is continuing west on Mast Boulevard in Santee, as well as west on Mapleview Street in Lakeside and from Laurel Canyon Road to El Monte Road. Lane closures can be expected.

Residents and commuters in Santee and Lakeside can monitor road closures on the East County AWP website. Photo: East County AWP

Construction on the 23,000-square-foot Visitors Center is in progress and will be completed by the end of 2025. It will house administrative offices, the operation control center, a testing laboratory, and a community room. The steel beam installation, including 66 columns and 100 beams, will use 350,000 pounds of U.S. steel.

The Flume Trail at Lake Jennings is officially back open following a 10-month closure for purified pipeline construction. The trail will close again during the summer for a couple of months to allow for additional pipeline construction near the shoreline.

The Flume Trail at Lake Jennings is officially back open following a 10-month closure. It will close again for additional construction later this summer. Photo: East County AWP

When complete, the East County AWP Program will be able to create up to 11.5 million gallons of purified water per day, which is enough to serve an estimated 400,000 people, or roughly 30% of East San Diego County’s water supply.

The East County AWP Program includes construction of the following:

When operational, the East County AWP will be able to create up to 11.5 million gallons of purified water per day which is enough to serve roughly 30% of East San Diego County’s water supply. Photo: East County AWP

Water recycling facility treating 16 million gallons per day (MGD) of wastewater.
Advanced water purification facility treating and purifying 11.5 MGD.
Purified water pipeline transporting purified water 10 miles to Lake Jennings.
Wastewater and residual pipelines. Each segment is three miles long.
East Mission Gorge Pump Station (retrofitted) and City of San Diego partnership of regional brine and wastewater pipelines traveling from the pump station in Santee to the City of San Diego’s sewer line in Mission Valley.
Energy recovery system creating three megawatts of renewable energy.

To stay up-to-date with project schedules, community impacts and work descriptions, check the East County Advanced Water Purification Program’s interactive map on www.eastcountyawp.com or visit @eastcountyawp on social media

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