Managing Orange County’s Groundwater
The Orange County Water District (OCWD) is a groundwater wholesale agency responsible for managing and protecting the Orange County Groundwater Basin. The basin is a vital local resource that provides 85% of the drinking water supply to 19 cities and retail water districts, who serve a collective 2.5 million people in north and central Orange County. Formed in 1933, the District has implemented cutting-edge programs and projects to maximize local water resources, enhance water reliability, ensure high-quality water, prevent seawater intrusion, and protect Orange County’s rights to Santa Ana River water.
Values and Mission Statement
OCWD’s Board of Directors and staff are committed to serving the people of Orange County. As public servants, they take on the water challenges of today and prepare to meet the region’s water demands for generations to come. Solid science and state-of-the-art technologies guide their decisions. OCWD is committed to sound planning and investment, high standards for water reliability, exceptional water quality, environmental stewardship, sound financial management, and transparency.
OCWD’s mission is to provide a reliable, high quality water supply in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner.
History
Orange County’s groundwater basin began forming millions of years ago as mountains eroded and ocean and riverine sediments filled a deep valley, trapping Santa Ana River water within layers of sand and gravel. Since the District’s formation in 1933, it has doubled the basin output and continues to find new sources to refill it. The OCWD board of directors and staff, past and present, have worked diligently over the years to actively manage Orange County’s groundwater basin. For an in-depth look into its tradition of innovation, download ‘A History of Orange County Water District.’ For additional information, please read the District Act.