Water Ways Report

The County conducted a regional assessment of drought management and water use strategies that align with California's Water Supply Strategy, address local needs and opportunities, and include input from various stakeholders across the greater San Diego Region, including San Diego County, local municipalities, Tribal Nations, Imperial County, and Mexico border cities. Assessment included research of:

• Stormwater collection and reuse at County parks and facilities
• Water diversion, collection, and reuse on County roads and highways
• Incentives for stormwater collection and water reuse integration into affordable housing developments
• Financial risks caused by extreme weather conditions
• Financial investments needed for resilience approaches
• Other jurisdictional examples of graywater reuse
• Risks, opportunities, and incentives related to water use in agriculture

Assessment findings are detailed in the report titled “Water Ways: A 2023 Regional Assessment of Drought Management and Water Use Best Practice Strategies with Equitable Considerations for Our Future.” Strategies include water conservation, stormwater collection, water reuse, water storage, and desalination, with applications for affordable housing, agriculture, and County facilities and roads. Public comment and review of the draft report occurred in September 2024.

The final report was provided to the County Board of Supervisors in April 2025 and is available for public use as a drought management and water use best practice strategies resource for consideration by diverse stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and jurisdictions.

Have a question? You can submit questions using the link below, or email Kim.Ridout@sdcounty.ca.gov for more information.