January 2025

SMWD Stands Ready

As fires and high winds swept through Southern California, Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) stood ready to safeguard our community. SMWD continues to coordinate with local and regional partners. Here is a quick look at SMWD's ongoing efforts:

• Drinking water reservoirs are at full capacity
• 500 million gallons of emergency drinking water stored locally
• 3 billion gallons of water are available to support aerial firefighting
• 9,000 fire hydrants throughout the SMWD service area

How will we reach you in an emergency?

Ensure SMWD has your most current contact information on file. Log in to your account or email us at CustomerCare@smwd.com. 

Safeguarding a $3 Billion Water System 

The Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) manages a vast $3 billion water infrastructure system, serving nearly 220,000 residents in southern Orange County. With an average annual delivery of 10 billion gallons of drinking water, SMWD plays a critical role in supporting the area's thriving communities.

To maintain the reliability of aging infrastructure, SMWD emphasizes proactive maintenance. In 2024, the District allocated $21.44 million for maintenance and upgrades, along with an additional $11.53 million for water reliability projects, ensuring a sustainable future for its customers. Long-term planning is particularly important, as 90% of SMWD’s drinking water comes from northern California and the Colorado River.

As part of its commitment to transparency and sustainability, SMWD is finalizing a rate study. Starting in May 2025, a proposed water rate adjustment will appear on customer water bills. This adjustment is crucial for maintaining reliable and sustainable water delivery in the District's growing communities.

Want to learn more? Join SMWD for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of its extensive infrastructure. Your engagement and support are vital as the District invests in a reliable water system that benefits the entire community.



Tours: How Water Rates are Determined

Learn about the fascinating complexities, technological advances, and scientific processes behind water delivery to South Orange County. The tours include an informative rate discussion, hosted by SMWD's finance team to help customers better understand how water rates are determined.

Friday, March 7

4:30-6:30 p.m.

California's largest recycled water reservoir: Trampas Canyon Reservoir.

Thursday, March 13

9:00-10:30 a.m.

Emergency Drinking Water Storage: Upper Chiquita Reservoir.

Drinking Water Plant Undergoes $10 Million Renovation Upgrades will Double the Capacity of Water Production

The San Juan Capistrano Groundwater Recovery Plant is our only source of local water. The Recovery Plant is undergoing a $10 million upgrade, including the recent installation of two new reverse osmosis filtration units. 

When the project is completed, the reverse osmosis upgrade will effectively double the capacity of the plant. The current capacity of the plant is 2.4 million gallons per day, or 7.4 acre-feet per day. Join SMWD for a tour of this site on Friday, June 6 at 10:00 a.m.

Love Your Garden

Saturday, February 22 | 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Prepare your garden for spring with expert tips on pruning, pest control, and drip irrigation.

• Bring your succulent plant cuttings to share with fellow gardeners
• Free compost and mulch are available for registered attendees

Strengthening Wastewater Management in Orange County

SMWD helped lead a recent reorganization of the South Orange County Wastewater Authority (SOCWA), a joint powers authority providing South Orange County wastewater treatment and water reclamation services.

This strategic move supports over 500,000 residents and initiates the development of the first-ever Regional Wastewater Master Plan, setting the course for sustainable water management in the region.

Celebrating 31 Years of Service

Each year, SMWD recognizes its employees for their dedication and service. SMWD held the 2024 Service Awards in December, recognizing the industry’s best. Jaime Aguilar, photographed above, is a Principal Engineer responsible for project management involving planning, design, and field support of major domestic water, recycled water, and wastewater facilities constructed by SMWD. Jaime leads the review coordination for various water and wastewater projects designed or planned for the City of San Juan Capistrano. Jaime has served at SMWD for 31 years.

Thank you for your dedication and service, Jaime!

SMWD's New Board is Ready for 2025

Santa Margarita Water District’s Board of Directors started the new year with enthusiasm at the District’s headquarters.

Photo above (L-R): SMWD Board of Directors - Saundra F. Jacobs, Laura Freese (Vice President), Betty H. Olson, Ph. D. (President), Frank Ury, and Margaret Novak.

CustomerCare@smwd.com

(949) 459-6420