Water Department

Located in the semi-arid desert region of the southwestern United States, where rainfall can vary from practically nil one year to plentiful the next, local water availability for the San Diego region has always been an issue. San Diego imports 90 percent of its water and uses local source water to supplement the remaining 10 percent of its water supply. Today, the City of San Diego Water Department serves more than 1.2 million people residing on more than 200 square miles of developed land. Water infrastructure for our community has become one of the most complex in the United States. San Diego will continue to rely heavily upon imported water for its water supply needs far into the foreseeable future.

Charitable Partnering Opportunities

Preserve and Enhance Water Quality Program: $100,000
The Water Department is working with the County of San Diego and other local agencies in watershed planning efforts. The Department is leading the effort to develop a watershed plan for the San Dieguito River to protect and restore water quality, increase water supply and assure water availability for a variety of beneficial uses.

Keep Our Reservoirs Clean Program: $25,000
An urgently needed educational and outreach initiative, the Program will use signage throughout the City's 9 reservoirs about the fragility of the water stored in these facilities. Clearly and dramatically, the Program will depict the serious threats to the health of the community and the environment caused by dumping trash and pollutants into the reservoirs.

Enhance the Lakes Recreation Program: $50,000-$400,000
Through the Water Department, the City operates a popular recreation Program at all 9 of its reservoirs. The Department provides lake users with walking, jogging, picnicking, fishing and hunting, and water contact activities. To assure the fullest access to these activities and safety in the enjoyment of them, the Program is challenged to increase the equipment available, have on hand a wide range of essential replacement materials and provide continuous maintenance.