Since San Diego is a semiarid region, dry years and droughts will always be possible. To prudently manage water supplies during such times, in 2006 the Water Authority and its member agencies developed and approved a Drought Management Plan outlining stages of water supply conditions and what steps it might take to save water during these stages. These stages are:

Normal: Water supplies match demand, with some water stored in local reservoirs for future use. Water agencies encourage wise water use and operate under standard procedures.

Voluntary Supply Management: MWD withdraws water to meet current-year demands. The Water Authority encourages increased voluntary conservation, monitors supply and storage conditions, and adjusts operations to maximize storage.

Supply Enhancement: MWD reduces water deliveries. In addition to previous stage activities, the Water Authority looks to buy temporary water transfers. Increased conservation may be required. The plan is currently in this stage.

Mandatory Cutbacks: MWD and Water Authority have no more supply options, and cut deliveries to member agencies. The Water Authority allocates deliveries. Extraordinary conservation measures may become mandatory.

Click here to view plan.