MWD pilots new water transfer model, eyes interstate exchange framework

MWD pilots new water transfer model, eyes interstate exchange frameworkFollowing a landmark transfer between San Diego and Western Municipal Water District, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is drafting an MOU to explore cross-border water sharing.

MWD executed its first inter-agency water transfer between San Diego County Water Authority and Western Municipal Water District under an amended exchange agreement.

An MOU establishing a framework for interstate water transfers will be brought before the board in April.

MWD leadership is actively lobbying state legislators for drought mitigation funding targeted at the Sepulveda feeder project.

The utility is heightening its physical and cybersecurity posture to protect water systems in response to geopolitical tensions.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) is advancing a new business model for water distribution, successfully executing its first transfer between two member agencies. The milestone exchange between the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) and Western Municipal Water District was made possible by a settlement announced last year. According to General Counsel Marcia Scully, the mechanism for the transfer is an amended exchange agreement. The updated contract allows San Diego to redirect a portion of its designated exchange water to other member agencies. Chair Ortega praised the transaction, stating that the new business model "holds solutions for the West" and could eventually serve as a tool to help other states benefit from long-term conservation efforts. Building on this regional flexibility, MWD is now preparing to explore broader transfer agreements. The General Manager announced that staff will present a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with SDCWA in April. The MOU will outline a framework for potential interstate water transfers, aiming to develop a program that supports both individual member agencies and the broader MWD network. Simultaneously, the district is pursuing state funding to bolster its infrastructure. A recent MWD delegation to Sacramento—which included the Chair alongside Directors Shephard Ramey, Mel Katz, and Kazakian—lobbied lawmakers for financial support for drought mitigation projects, specifically highlighting the Sepulveda feeder. The delegation also held discussions regarding Senate Bill 872, Assembly Bill 2215, and the operational threats posed by golden mussels. Separately, the General Manager issued a security warning to the board, noting that water systems are increasingly targeted during periods of geopolitical instability. In response to ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, MWD is actively increasing its physical and cybersecurity awareness under the guidance of Assistant General Manager Shane Chapman.