California Water Plan 2013: South Coast Hydrologic Region Report

The South Coast Hydrologic Region is the most urbanized and populous region in the state and very dependent on supplemental water supplies. The supplies not only come from the Colorado River, the State Water Project (SWP), and the Eastern Sierra but also from vast groundwater basins within the region, and some recycled water and desalinated water. The region’s mild climate, employment opportunities, and recreational venues have resulted in the rapid growth that has occurred within the region. Wholesale and retail water agencies, groundwater agencies, and watershed managers are working together to meet current and future demands of municipal, industrial, and agricultural users and the environment and to sustain the region’s economy. To achieve this goal, they have developed and implemented large and diverse water supply, water quality, and water use efficiency projects.

Through the emphasis on water conservation and efficiency practices, the total use within the region has not increased nearly as rapidly as would otherwise be expected from the population growth that has occurred. Cooperation between agencies and organizations, including tribal communities and disadvantaged communities and use of integrated resources planning has improved the flexibility and diversity of the region’s water supplies.