Spring Valley, Calif. – The Otay Water District has launched its annual WaterSmart Landscape Contest. Given that more than half of residential water use occurs on landscape irrigation, the contest aims to encourage outdoor conservation during the drought. The District awards the title “Best in District” and a nursery gift card, among other prizes, to one resident for their attractive, drought-tolerant garden. The deadline to enter is Friday, May 12, 2023.
Fix a Leak Week is an opportunity for all water users to repair leaks and save our most precious resource. The week (March 20-26) is a reminder every March to check indoor and outdoor plumbing systems for costly, wasteful water leaks.
Increasing awareness of opportunities to repair leaks is supported by the San Diego County Water Authority and its 24 member agencies, and by other regional WaterSense partners throughout North America.
“While Fix a Leak Week is a reminder to save water by repairing leaks, San Diegans continue to be WaterSmart by upgrading plumbing devices with high-efficiency toilets and low-flow showerheads, and by using smart irrigation controllers that automatically adjust with the weather,” said Water Resources Specialist Debby Dunn, with the San Diego County. “We encourage residents and businesses to take advantage of the rebates available to save water indoors and outdoors.”
Minor leaks, water waste
Minor water leaks account for more than a trillion gallons of water wasted each year in homes across the United States. For example, repairing a leaky toilet can save up to 500 gallons of water a day. In just a month, that’s enough to fill a backyard swimming pool.
According to the EPA, an average household’s leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year. Homes with easily correctable leaks can waste 90 gallons or more per day. By fixing easily correctable leaks, consumers can save water cut an average of 10% off their monthly water bill.
Upgrade or repair leaking fixtures indoors and outside
Adding water efficient upgrades will help meet long-term regional conservation goals. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
The Water Authority has partnered with San Diego Gas and Electric to install nearly 4,000 WaterSense-labeled showerheads and 2,213 water-efficient toilets for residents. A $3 million grant from the California Department of Water Resources Urban Community Drought relief grant program will fund the installation of 7,300 additional toilets and smart irrigation controllers. The upgrades will save about 6,000 acre-feet of water. Replacing inefficient or leaking toilets with high-efficiency models reduces water use by 60%.
March Fix a Leak Week 2023
Regional water agencies help customers save water and money
The Vallecitos Water District added a new video for 2023 to its award-winning series helping customers find and fix leaks to save water and money. This year, Vallecitos Water District asks viewers to take the “10 Minute Challenge.”
The Sweetwater Authority is offering tips for consumers and rebates of up to $75 for leak repairs made through June 30. Consumers can schedule a free water audit by calling the Water Efficiency Hotline at 619-409-6779 or email
The Sweetwater Authority also offers customers a $75 rebate to replace or install a new pressure-reducing valve at their home. The valves help to address high pressure that can cause increased wear on fittings, making them more prone to leaks.
A rebate of up to $100 is also available for qualifying leak detectors and flow monitors, which can alert customers to potential leaks through an app on their smartphone. Check out all the water efficiency rebates: www.sweetwater.org/rebates.
Minor water leaks account for more than a trillion gallons of water wasted each year in homes across the United States. Photo: Rajesh Balouria
The Otay Water District offers helpful tips to fix leaks and save water on its website and its social media, including:
Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter changes, you may have a leak. Visit otaywater.gov/how-to-read-your-meter to learn how to track your water use.
Place a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank and wait 10 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, you have a leak.
Examine faucet gaskets and pipe fittings for any water on the outside of the pipe to check for surface leaks.
Easy fix for some leaks
Leaky showerheads or dripping faucets are often easy to fix, requiring common tools and hardware that can pay for themselves in water savings. How much? According to the EPA Fix-A-Week-Leak website, each average household with unaddressed leaks can account for 10,000 gallons of water loss every year, enough to wash 300 loads of laundry.
Investing just 10 minutes to perform a quick search of your home and fixing them can save an additional 10% on your water bill.
Check WaterSmartSD.org for tips and for more information about Fix a Leak Week.
To educate water users and promote the importance of repairing leaks to conserve and protect the water supply, Fix a Leak Week was created in 2009 by the Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense program.
(Editor’s note: The Vallecitos Water District, Otay Water District and Sweetwater Authority are three of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego County region.)
San Diego regional member water agencies and California water associations will offer multiple college scholarship opportunities in 2023 to help candidates secure their education as water and wastewater professionals.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.png00Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.pngMike Lee2023-02-14 09:58:572023-02-14 10:00:302023 Scholarship Applications Open for Future Water Professionals
San Diego regional member water agencies and California water associations will offer multiple college scholarship opportunities in 2023 to help candidates secure their education as water and wastewater professionals.
The acceleration of industry retirement and the increasing need for a skilled workforce trained to implement new technologies result in an increased effort to develop more skilled individuals for water and wastewater industry jobs, including in San Diego County.
Scholarships are available for community colleges, four-year colleges and universities, and graduate-level programs. The following examples are due in the coming weeks for study in the 2022-2023 academic school year.
San Diego regional water scholarships
Helix Water District offers two $1,000 scholarships to students pursuing water industry careers. Photo: Helix Water District
The Helix Water District offers two $1,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors living within the district’s service area who will begin their university studies next fall. Applications are due March 10 for the Dr. Lillian M. Childs Scholarship and the Robert D. Friedgen Scholarship, which both help with freshman-year expenses. The scholarship committee reviews each applicant’s grades, extracurricular activities, volunteer and work experience, academic and career goals and financial needs.
High school seniors must graduate in Spring 2023 and attend a four-year college or university next fall. Students submit a two-page essay exploring the case in favor or against developing potable reuse and the East County Advanced Water Purification project. Students can verify their eligibility by calling 619-466-0585. Deadline: March 10, 2023. Application Link.
The Vista Irrigation District offers up to six scholarships between $1,000 and $3,000 to high school students living or attending school within the district. The purpose of the scholarship program is to increase knowledge and awareness of water-related issues impacting their community. Students who compete for a scholarship must complete an essay and provide a personal statement. Selection criteria also include community involvement or volunteer service. Deadline: February 24, 2023. Application Link.
Students can contact Brent Reyes at (760) 597-3107 or with questions or request application information.
Through the Foundation for Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges, the Mark Watton Scholarship Fund supports students attending the Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College. It honors Otay Water District General Manager Mark Watton’s four decades of service to the district.
Applicants must be currently enrolled for at least six units at Cuyamaca College, verify financial need, and complete the general application and essay. Scholarships of $1,000 are available. Students can contact scholarship specialist Ernest Williams at 619-660-4537 or email for more information.
Sweetwater Authority “Work for Water”
Sweetwater Authority’s “Work for Water” scholarship program offers two $1,000 scholarships to new or currently enrolled students at the Center for Water Studies or another accredited college, community college, or trade school with a career goal in the water industry. For questions regarding the scholarship, application, or uploading documentation, please email
In 2022, the Sweetwater Authority Governing Board awarded scholarships to David Inchaurregui Jr. of Chula Vista and Kassandra Beltran of National City. Inchaurregui Jr. is currently attending the Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College, pursuing a career as a water treatment plant operator. Beltran is seeking her Master’s Degree at San Diego State University, intending to work in water policy and administration.
Vallecitos Water District Scholarship Contest
The Vallecitos Water District invites local high school seniors and students at both Palomar College and California State University San Marcos to compete for scholarships from the District. Up to six scholarships may be awarded in amounts up to $1,000 per scholarship. The purpose of the scholarship program is to encourage students to learn more about water related issues impacting their community.
Students may download an application package from www.vwd.org, or contact Chris Robbins at (760) 752-7120 or to have the materials sent to them. Deadline: March 31, 2023. Applications must be received via e-mail or at the District office by 5 p.m. Eligible students must live or go to school within the Vallecitos Water District’s service area.
California statewide water scholarships
Approximately 1,400 water and wastewater industry jobs will become available in San Diego County in the next five years. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
ACWA
The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) offers four undergraduate scholarships, one graduation scholarship, and a fellowship opportunity to qualified applicants attending a University of California or California State University campus. Students must be juniors or seniors pursuing an undergraduate degree in a water-resources related field such as engineering, agriculture, environmental studies, or public administration. Criteria include academic achievement and motivation to the vocation of water-resources management.
ACWA began its scholarship programs in 1961 to motivate committed students to join the effort to ensure California’s water quality through sound management policies. The scholarship program is all about investing in future water leaders. Deadline: March 1, 2023. Application Link. For questions, call 916-441-4545 or email .
CA-NV AWWA
The California-Nevada section of the American Water Works Association (CA-NV AWWA) awards more than $20,000 in scholarships to support students and professionals pursuing careers in a drinking water related field. Two $5,000 graduate scholarships, four $2,500 undergraduate scholarships, and two $1,000 scholarships in support of training as a drinking water treatment/distribution operator are available.
Environmental and civil engineers; water, wastewater, and recycling treatment plant operators; distribution system operators; chemists; laboratory technicians; biologists, ecologists, and environmental scientists; and others whose roles support safe and reliable drinking water are all suitable candidates. Deadline: March 15, 2023. Application Link. For information, call 909-481-7200 or email
WEF
The Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) Canham Graduate Studies scholarship provides $25,000 for a post-baccalaureate student in the water environment field. The scholarship is for education-related expenses such as room and board, tuition, and books. The scholarship may not be used to cover stipends or wages.
The applicant must be a WEF member, complete an online application, and be enrolled in a graduate program. Recipients must commit to working in the water industry for two years following graduation. Deadline: March 31, 2023. Application Link. For questions, email Lisa Ruane at
(Editor’s note: The Helix Water District, Otay Water District, Vallecitos Water District, Sweetwater Authority and Vista Irrigation District are five of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego County region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Sweetwater-Scholarship-Winners-2022-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.pngGayle Falkenthal2023-02-14 07:09:592023-02-14 13:16:192023 Scholarship Applications Open for Future Water Professionals
As part of its annual preventative maintenance program to safeguard its water supply and reduce water loss, the Otay Water District will conduct leak inspections of its pipeline system beginning January 30. Inspections are expected to continue until April 28.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.png00Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.pngMike Lee2023-01-24 09:59:352023-01-24 16:34:31Annual Leak Detection Program Gets Underway in Otay Water District
As part of its annual preventative maintenance program to safeguard its water supply and reduce water loss, the Otay Water District will conduct leak inspections of its pipeline system beginning January 30. Inspections are expected to continue until April 28. The District’s contractor, Utility Services Associates, will inspect approximately 171 miles of potable water mains in Spring Valley and Jamul, along with potable and recycled water mains in areas of Chula Vista.
Minor water leaks account for more than a trillion gallons of water wasted each year in homes across the United States. According to the EPA Fix-A-Week-Leak website, each average household with unaddressed leaks can account for 10,000 gallons of water loss every year, enough to wash 300 loads of laundry.
Since 2013, the proactive Leak Detection Program has identified 292 leaks that have been repaired by the District, resulting in an average annual savings of $54,000 per year from reduced water losses. Graphic: Otay Water District
For example, the EPA reports a leak just one-32nd of an inch in diameter (about the thickness of a dime) can waste 6,300 gallons of water per month.
Since 2013, the proactive Leak Detection Program has identified 292 leaks that have been repaired by the District, resulting in an average annual savings of $54,000 per year from reduced water losses.
“The Otay Water District conducts inspections annually in different communities we serve,” said Otay System Operations Manager Jake Vaclavek. “It is more critical than ever to insure we are not wasting water as we cope with our state’s ongoing megadrought.”
Workers conduct inspections weekdays through April
An effective leak detection and repair program is one of the main components for water conservation and an important part of asset management. Photo: Otay Water District
Customers may see workers inspecting the meter in front of their home or business, typically between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Weekend and night work may also be required. Inspections can range from a few minutes to a full day.
Inspection workers will wear a Utility Services Associates logo and carry company identification. They will not need access to the homes or property of customers. They may contact customers if they need to momentarily shut off their water supply for further testing. Water supply will not be shut off without permission from someone at the home or property.
The Otay Water District will continue its annual leak inspection through April. Photo: Otay Water District
Workers might lift water meter covers, inspect, and attach equipment to meters or valves. If they suspect a leak, the Otay Water District will contact the customer and advise them of the potential leak.
For questions on the Otay Water District Leak Detection Program, contact customer service at (619) 670-2222.
(Editor’s note: The Otay Water District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego County region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Otay-LeakDetection-Greencrest-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.pngGayle Falkenthal2023-01-24 07:41:242023-01-24 07:41:24Annual Leak Detection Program Gets Underway in Otay Water District
Spring Valley, Calif. – At its January meeting, the Otay Water District board of directors elected new officers to lead the District’s board for 2023.
The board elected director Mark Robak, who represents division five, as president. The board also elected board member Jose Lopez, serving division four, as vice president and Ryan Keyes, serving division two, as treasurer.
Robak’s election as president follows two years of board leadership under past president Tim Smith. Robak will serve as president through January 2024 when officer elections will again take place. He has served on the District’s board for 18 years since January 2005.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/OtayWD-LogoSQ.png200200Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.pngMike Lee2023-01-20 11:52:552023-01-20 11:52:55Otay Water District Board Elects Mark Robak as 2023 Board President
Fast action by the San Diego County Water Authority and its partners is helping maintain water service in Tijuana after problems with the city’s aqueduct emerged in December.
Emergency water deliveries started last week after a coordinated effort between the Water Authority, Otay Water District, and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). The typical multi-month approval process was compressed into a few days to avoid additional water supply shortages in Tijuana.
Fast action by the San Diego County Water Authority and its partners is helping maintain water service in Tijuana after problems with the city’s aqueduct emerged in December.
Emergency water deliveries started last week after a coordinated effort between the Water Authority, Otay Water District, and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). The typical multi-month approval process was compressed into a few days to avoid additional water supply shortages in Tijuana.
Agency accelerates emergency water delivery
“We’re extremely proud of how quickly the Water Authority staff worked to meet the emergency water needs of our neighbors to the south,” said Mel Katz, Water Authority Board Chair. “Coordinating with multiple agencies and getting the necessary approvals in just three days was a team effort and is a credit to the Water Resources and Operations & Maintenance departments.”
Cross-border emergency deliveries started more than 50 years ago and are governed by an agreement between the United States and Mexico to provide Tijuana with a portion of Mexico’s Colorado River supply. The Water Authority provides emergency water deliveries to Mexico through a cross-border connection in Otay Mesa. These deliveries use Water Authority, Otay Water District, and MWD facilities to transport the emergency supplies from the Colorado River to Mexico, which pays transportation costs on deliveries to Tijuana and provides funds for meter connection upkeep. Deliveries are typically planned months in advance due to the number of government agencies involved.
Coordination with multiple agencies
On January 2, the Water Authority received a request for emergency water delivery to Tijuana. Water Authority staff immediately expedited the complex approval process during this unplanned Tijuana aqueduct outage. Those steps included working with the U.S. International Boundary & Water Commission, Otay Water District, and MWD to confirm system capacity availability and establish costs associated with the additional emergency deliveries.
The current water deliveries are scheduled to continue until the end of February. Consistent with the previously approved schedule, planned water deliveries will restart in April and continue through September 2023.
(Editor’s note: The Otay Water District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across San Diego County.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/buildings-Tijuana-Image-by-Abraham-Garcia-Alvarez-from-pixabay.jpg8531280Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.pngMike Lee2023-01-17 15:23:032023-01-17 15:31:15Water Authority Delivers Emergency Water Supply to Tijuana
Six San Diego County student artists are among the 37 Southern California students whose artwork will appear in the 2023 “Water Is Life” Student Art Calendar.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.png00Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/water-news-network.pngMike Lee2022-12-28 09:57:342022-12-28 09:57:48San Diego County Student Artwork Featured in 2023 Calendar
