Published: 2/29/2016
The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) recently provided a total of $31.1 million in grants for a series of water-related projects in the San Diego area, according to a news release by the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA). [1] Provided as part of the Integrated Regional Water Management (IRWM) grants, the funds will support a total of 13 projects. The various projects will focus on increasing local water supply, decreasing water demand, improving water quality, managing stormwater and restoring natural habitats. [1]
The San Diego IRWM program, which addresses water management in the densely populated city, formed a collaboration between the San Diego County Water Authority, the City of San Diego and the County of San Diego. Mark Stadler, the San Diego IRWM program manager, said in a news release, “By working together, all of the agencies and non-profit groups involved are making big investments and big improvements in the region we call home. This coordinated approach is the hallmark of integrated watershed management.” [1]
Two of the largest funded projects through these grants are a $6 million expansion of the Padre Dam Municipal Water District’s water reclamation plant and a $3.8 million upgrade to the SDCWA prison to retrofit with water-efficient fixtures. Other projects include:
- Improving water quality through water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades in economically disadvantaged rural areas;
- Improving water quality at Hodges Reservoir in San Diego through a biofiltration wetland; and,
- Upgrading a wastewater treatment plant at the San Diego Zoo Global.[1]
Combined with various other sources, this most recent round of grant funding will provide more than $190 million for nationwide water projects. By investing in water reuse and watershed management, San Diego is ensuring a resilient, healthy and more sustainable future for their water supply. As stated by Stadler in the SDCWA news release, “These grants will help our region meet goals for water conservation and expanding drought-proof water supplies.”[1]
[1] News Release, “More Than $31 Million Awarded to Water Projects in San Diego Region.” San Diego County Water Authority. http://www.sdcwa.org/more-31-million-awarded-water-projects-san-diego-region