Local groundwater Supply 

Improvement Project (Local SiP) 

Desalination Feasibility Study 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant 

Applicant: 

Mesa Water District 

1965 Placentia Avenue 

Costa Mesa, California 92627 

Project Manager: 

Andrew D. Wiesner, P.E. 

Mesa Water District 

1965 Placentia Avenue 

Costa Mesa, California 92627 

AndrewW@mesawater.org 

949.207.5458 

February 23, 2023 
Table of Contents 

1. Executive Summary...........................................................................................................................1-1 

1.1 Summary of Project ................................................................................................................1-1 

1.2 Estimated Project Duration....................................................................................................1-1 

1.3 Federal Facility or Land ..........................................................................................................1-1 

2. Project Location.................................................................................................................................2-1 

3. Technical Project Description...........................................................................................................3-1 

3.1 Applicant Category and Eligibility...........................................................................................3-1 

3.2 Goals and Objectives..............................................................................................................3-1 

3.3 Approach to Project................................................................................................................3-1 

4. Evaluation Criteria.............................................................................................................................4-1 

4.1 Evaluation Criteria 1 -Project Planning and Analysis .........................................................4-1 

4.1.1 Sub-criterion la -Water Recycling Needs and Opportunities..............................4-1 

4.1.2 Sub-criterion 1b -Evaluation of Project Alternatives ............................................4-7 

4.2 Evaluation Criteria 2 -Stretching Water Supplies...............................................................4-9 

4.2.1 Potential to Reduce, Postpone, or Eliminate New or Expanded Non-Recycled WaterSupplies .........................................................................................................4-9 

4.2.2 Alleviate Pressure on Existing Water Supplies and/or Facilities...........................4-9 

4.2.3 Potential to Make Water Available to Address a Specific Concern.................... 4-10 

4.2.4 Potential to Create Additional Flexibility to Address Drought............................. 4-10 

4.3 Evaluation Criteria 3 -Environment and Water Quality.................................................... 4-11 

4.3.1 Potential to Improve Water Quality....................................................................... 4-11 

4.3.2 Potential to Improve Effluent Quality ................................................................... 4-11 

4.3.3 Potential to Improve Natural Stream Channel Flow Conditions......................... 4-11 

4.3.4 Potential to Restore, Enhance, or Provide Water or Habitat .............................. 4-11 

4.4 Evaluation Criteria 4 - Department of Interior Priorities .................................................. 4-12 

4.4.1 Climate Change Impacts.......................................................................................4-12 

Disadvantaged or Underserved Communities...................................................................4-13 

4.4.2 Tribal Benefits........................................................................................................4-16 

4.5 Evaluation Criterion 5 - Watershed Perspective and Stakeholder Involvement............. 4-16 

4.5.1 Impact to Regional or State Water Plan or Integrated Resource Management 4-16 

4.5.2 Water Supply Support for Large Area, Region or Watershed.............................. 4-16 

4.5.3 Collaborative Partnerships to Address Water-Related Issues............................ 4-17 

4.5.4 Public Outreach and Opportunities......................................................................4-17 

5. Project Budget................................................................................................................................ 5-18 

5.1 Funding Plan ........................................................................................................................ 5-18 

5.2 Budget Proposal:.................................................................................................................. 5-18 

5.3 Budget Narrative:................................................................................................................. 5-19 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 Table of Contents 

List of Figures 

Figure 2-1.Project location ......................................................................................................................2-1 

Figure 4-1.00 Basin Aquifer layers .........................................................................................................4-2 

Figure 4-2. TDS Concentrations within study area .................................................................................4-3 

Figure 4-3.00 Basin chloride concentration contours...........................................................................4-4 

Figure 4-4. Local SiP preliminary project schedule ................................................................................4-8 

Figure 4-5. Mesa Water DAC, DWR map tool....................................................................................... 4-14 

Figure 4-6. Santa Ana River Watershed DAC, DWR map tool .............................................................4-15 

List of Tables 

Table 4-1. Projected Supply and Demanda .............................................................................................4-6 

Table 5-1. Summary of Non-Federal and Federal Funding Sources................................................... 5-19 

Table 5-2. Total Project Cost Table....................................................................................................... 5-19 

Table 5-3. Project Cost Breakdown....................................................................................................... 5-21 
Section I 

Executive Summary 

On February 21, 2023, the following Technical Proposal (WaterSMART Funding Opportunity 

No. R23AS00076) was prepared by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water), located in the city of 

Costa Mesa and serving areas within the cities of Costa Mesa and Newport Beach, and 

unincorporated areas in Orange County, California. 

1.1 Summary of Project 

As water supplies across the western United States become increasingly stressed due to 

extended drought periods and climate change, water agencies throughout California are 

faced with the challenge of developing new, alternative water sources to maintain resiliency 

and secure reliable resources for future generations. In response to these challenges, Mesa 

Water, with support from Orange County Water District (OCWD), the City of Huntington Beach 

(Huntington Beach), and the City of Newport Beach (Newport Beach), has identified an 

opportunity to supplement local supply sources — and offset imported supply use — by 

pumping and treating areas of the Orange County Basin (OC Basin) that are impacted by 

brackish groundwater; which can also potentially protect existing production wells that may 

be susceptible to seawater intrusion. The proposed opportunity is referred to as the Local 

groundwater Supply Improvement Project (Local SiP), which will provide water security by 

diversifying the local water supply portfolio and providing a flexible water source during 

imported water shortages. The Local SiP is located within the Santa Ana River Watershed, 

which is susceptible to the impacts of climate change (United States Bureau of Reclamation 

[USBR], 2013). Mesa Water and supporting partners are requesting funding to complete a 

feasibility study for the Local SiP that aligns with the requirements of the Bureau of 

Reclamation's Feasibility Study Directives and Standards (WTR 11-01). The feasibility study 

will evaluate alternative groundwater well locations through a siting analysis and 

groundwater modeling, consider impacts of seawater intrusion to the local Basin, identify 

infrastructure needs, confirm environmental compliance, and assess treatment options for a 

brackish groundwater desalination facility, which will supplement local supplies by 

approximately 5 to 8 million gallons per day (mgd), or 5,600 to 8,960 acre-feet per year 

(AFY). The Local SiP will be developed in collaboration with partnering agencies and will 

provide the framework for selecting a proposed project alternative with estimated costs that 

can be moved into design and construction. 

1.2 Estimated Project Duration 

The Local SiP feasibility study is anticipated to kickoff in November 2023 and is anticipated 

to be completed by December 2024. 

1.3 Federal Facility or Land 

The following project will not be located at a federal facility or on federal land. 

1-1 
Section 2 

Project Location 

The Local SiP is located within the coastal region of the Santa Ana River Watershed within 

central Orange County, California, which is approximately 45 miles southeast of Los Angeles, 

California. The study area for the Local SiP is approximately 36 square miles and overlays 

the OC Basin that is managed by OCWD and includes portions of Mesa Water, Huntington 

Beach, and Newport Beach service areas, which is shown on Figure 2-1. The climate is 

characterized as a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers that range in 

temperature between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) and mild winters that range in 

temperature between 50 to 65 0 F. Moderate precipitation occurs in the region during the 

winter months between October and May, which is captured along the Santa Ana River and 

recharged into the Basin. Most recently, the region was significantly impacted by a historic 

drought period, which will continue to impact the region over time due to climate change. 

Legend 

Study Area 

Q Mesa Water District 

City of Huntington 

Beach 

0! s - City of Newport Beach 

CICWD Boundary 

- Freeways 

Miles 

0 3.5 7 

Data Sources: Mesa Water District, 

WDS 2020 

Disclaimer: Features shown in this 

figure are for planning purposes and 

represent approximate locations 

Engineering and/or survey accuracy 

is not implied. 

uuFaam.A k~ 

MESA WA7E -4 

Figure 2-1. Project location 

2-1 
Section 3 

Technical Project Description 

3.1 Applicant Category and Eligibility 

The applicant category for the Local SiP feasibility study is Funding Group I, which is 

available for the planning, preliminary design, and environmental compliance activities for 

desalination projects that may take up to 24 months to complete. The applicant is Mesa 

Water, which is a water district located in the Western United States. 

3.2 Goals and Objectives 

The goals and objectives of this funding request are to develop a brackish groundwater 

desalination feasibility study for the Local SiP that aligns within the requirements of 

WTR 11-01, which will evaluate opportunities to supplement local supply sources by 

pumping and treating areas of the OC Basin that are impacted by brackish groundwater and 

potentially protect existing production wells that may be susceptible to seawater intrusion. 

The Local SiP will provide water security by diversifying the local water supply portfolio by 

increasing local supplies by nearly 5,600 to 8,960 AFY and provide a flexible water source 

during water shortages resulting from climate change. 

3.3 Approach to Project 

The Local SiP feasibility study will be led by Mesa Water and developed in collaboration with 

partnering agencies, which currently include OCWD, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach. 

The brackish groundwater desalination feasibility study will be guided by the requirements of 

WTR 11-01and include data collection, a siting analysis to identify potential groundwater 

wells and treatment plant locations to accommodate a 5 to 8 mgd facility, analysis of 

groundwater impacts through groundwater modeling, evaluation of infrastructure sizing and 

needs, verification of environmental and cultural resource compliance, and the development 

of preliminary cost estimates for project alternatives. The Local SiP will be developed in 

collaboration with partnering agencies and will provide the framework for selecting a 

proposed project alternative that can be moved into design and construction. 

The feasibility study will evaluate groundwater pumping opportunities for all aquifers, 

sub-aquifers, and zones seaward of the Talbert Barrier, which is an injection barrier within 

the study area to prevent seawater intrusion into the OC Basin. The assessment will include 

an evaluation of groundwater characteristics, such as, production potential, water quality, 

and seawater intrusion impacts for up to four (4) wellfield locations. In addition, treatment 

needs and potential plant locations will be identified. Once the preferred wellfield and 

treatment plant location alternatives have been selected, pipeline alignments will be 

assessed. All alternatives will be verified through groundwater modeling and an 

environmental review will be performed to identify potential impacts for top ranked 

alternatives. Preliminary cost estimates will then be developed for the selected alternatives 

and compared with the "do nothing" alternative. 

3-1 
Section 4 

Evaluation Criteria 

The following sections align with Section E.1- Technical Proposal and Evaluation Criteria of 

the WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076. Detailed descriptions regarding 

how the Local SiP addresses each of the criteria are listed within each respective section. 

4.1 Evaluation Criteria 1- Project Planning and Analysis 

The following section addresses Sub-criterion 1a - Water recycling needs and opportunities 

and Sub-criterion 1b - Evaluation of project alternatives. Since the funding request for the 

Local SiP includes a desalination feasibility study, the responses align with this project type. 

4.1.1 Sub-criterion 1a - Water Recycling Needs and Opportunities 

1. Describe the problems and needs in the project area. 

2. Describe the current and projected water supplies and demands in the project area; 

include a discussion on supply and demand imbalances. Additional consideration will 

be given to proposals that explain how the problems and needs in the area may be 

impacted by climate change, and/or if supply and demand projections will include 

climate change information. 

3. Describe how the planning activities will investigate potential uses and markets for 

reclaimed or desalinated water (e.g., environmental restoration, fish and wildlife, 

groundwater recharge, municipal, domestic, industrial, agricultural, power 

generation, and recreation). 

4. Describe the source water that will be considered for the project, including location, 

capacities, existing flows, treatment processes, and quantities of impaired water 

available to meet the new reclaimed, recycled, or desalinated water demands. 

4.1.1.1 Project Area Problem and Needs 

The Local SiP project area is located in a coastal community of Central Orange County, 

California that is both impacted by extreme drought conditions due to climate change and 

brackish groundwater due to seawater intrusion. In fact, the extended drought has had a 

significant impact on the availability of imported water supplies from the State Water Project 

(SWP) and Colorado River Aqueduct (CRA), which serves as a back-up source of water for 

Mesa Water and is used by partnering agencies to meet over 20 percent of demands. As 

climate change continues to increase the supply and demand gap, there is a need to 

transition away from historical water management strategies and prioritize resiliency, 

reclamation, and the development of local water supplies. In addition, coastal agencies have 

competing water supply challenges due to issues like brackish groundwater resulting from 

seawater intrusion. As shown on Figure 4-1 and Figure 4-2, the study area overlays the 

4-1 
Orange County 

Groundwater Basin 

i~19VIRMP C - W--- --

w•` i•e S 

' [= Layer ,(Shallow) f 0 Layer 2 (Principal) S o t0000 20,000 Layer 3 (Deep) 

Feet ~/ L._I OCM Boundary

WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

shallow, principal, and deep aquifers of the OC Basin with areas that have Total Dissolved 

Solids (TDS) concentrations that exceed 2,000 milligrams per liter (mg/Q. Over 95 percent 

of the groundwater that is currently pumped from the OC Basin comes from the principal 

aquifer, which is of higher water quality. However, a large portion of the study area overlays 

the shallow aquifer, which has experienced the highest water quality contamination threats. 

Currently, Newport Beach is the only project partner that pumps from this shallow aquifer for 

municipal use. Also, asshown on Figure 4-3, existing domestic wells are located near or 

along the chloride contour line, which is used to track seawater intrusion impacts. In fact, 

domestic wells within the City of Huntington Beach were removed from service as a result of 

high salinity levels. To address these challenges, opportunities for a new well field and 

treatment facility will be evaluated, which will increase local supplies and potentially mitigate 

or offset the impacts of seawater intrusion by locating wells seaward of the injection barrier. 

Figure 4-1. OC Basin Aquifer layers 

(Source: OCWD Groundwater Management Plan 2015 Update) 

4-2 
a Legend 

Q Study Area 

GCWD Boundary 

TDS Concentralion 

250 mg1L 

1 000 m9 l 

r =~ 2,009 mg/l 

!i 1 ..A 

Miles 

0 3.25 6.5 

Data Sources: Mesa Water District, 

WDS 2020 

Disclaimer: Features shown inthis 

figure are for planning purposes and 

represent approximate locations. 

Engineering and/or survey accuracy 

~j is not implied. 

Pacific Ocean 

WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

Figure 42.TDS Concentrations within study area 

4-3 
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• Multipart Momtcnng Well 

250 mg/L Chloride Concentration Countoum 

~. Irdex 

~ `~. (1~wQir.~ahla IneHeY 

WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

Figure 43. OC Basin chloride concentration contours 

(Source: OCWD Groundwater Management Plan 2015 Update) 

4-4 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.1.1.2 Summary of Supply and Demand Balance 

Current and Projected Supplies 

The supply portfolio for Mesa Water, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach includes 

imported water from the SWP and CRA, groundwater from the OC Basin (which is 

replenished with highly purified wastewater), and small portions of recycled water. The 

imported water supplies are managed by Municipal Water District of Orange County and the 

local OC Basin is managed by OCWD. The existing and projected supplies are summarized in 

Table 4-1, and are based on data provided in the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan 

(UWMP) (Arcadis, 2021). 

Since the development of the 2020 UWMPs, Governor Newsom issued an Executive Order 

N-7-22 in 2021to declare a statewide drought emergency in California for all counties and 

highlighted the urgency for urban water suppliers to conserve and activate water shortage 

levels due to the anticipated reduction in deliveries from the SWP. Historically, imported 

water supplies have sufficiently met demands, even in times of drought, due to a significant 

investment in infrastructure and strategic water resource management. However, the 

climate in California and across the Western United States has continued to change, with 

consistently hotter and drier weather. Although Mesa Water utilizes imported water as a 

back-up source, Huntington Beach and Newport Beach rely on imported water to meet 

demands. 

The OC Basin has also experienced a reduction in natural incidental recharge and Santa Ana 

River flows during drought periods. This trend is anticipated to continue as a result of 

climate change as well as reductions in discharges from upstream agencies that are 

implementing recycled water programs. The OC Basin is designated as a medium priority 

basin under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act and the primary mechanism 

used by OCWD to manage pumping is the Basin Production Percentage (BPP), which is set 

after evaluating groundwater storage conditions, availability of recharge water supplies, and 

basin management objectives. The BPP is uniformly set each year for all producers within 

the OC Basin. OCWD anticipates being able to sustain the BPP at 85 percent starting in 

2025. The primary reasons for the higher BPP is the completion of the Groundwater 

Replenishment System Final Expansion in 2023, which treats and injects recycled water into 

the OC Basin, and the potential reduction in water demands due to conservation. 

Current and Projected Demands 

The projected demands for Mesa Water, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach are 

anticipated to increase by approximately 4,502 AFY through the year 2045. This projection 

may change over time as a result of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment allocation 

requirements and construction of accessory dwelling units. 

Suplly and Demand Balance 

Based on the supply projections in the 2020 UWMPs and assumed availability of imported 

water, demands are met through the year 2045. However, as previously noted, Huntington 

Beach and Newport Beach are reliant on imported water supplies to meet demands, which 

are diminishing. In 2020, approximately 11,925 AFY of Huntington Beach and Newport 

Beach demands were met through the use of imported water supplies. If a significant 

reduction or loss of imported water supplies occur, a supply and demand imbalance will 

result. 

4-5 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

Climate Change Impacts 

As a result of climate change impacts, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N10-19 in April of 2019, calling on California state agencies to develop a comprehensive 

Water Resilience Portfolio to prioritize key actions to secure California's water future. 

Subsequentially, in 2022 the California Water Supply Strategy was released and highlighted 

accelerated impacts of the warming climate, which is anticipated to reduce California's 

existing water supplies by up to 10 percent by 2040 due to less snowfall, more evaporation, 

and greater water consumption by dry vegetation and soils (Department of Water Resources 

(DWR), 2022). The estimated supply reduction for Mesa Water, Huntington Beach, and 

Newport Beach is approximately 6,255 AFY by year 2045. This assumes a 10 percent 

reduction for all supply sources listed in Table 4-1. 

Potential Alternative Supplies 

The proposed Local SiP will offset the potential 10 percent reduction in total supply resulting 

from climate change, strengthen local supply security, and help meet future demands by 

providing a supplemental supply source of approximately 5,600 to 8,960 AFY. This project 

also aligns with the targeted goals within California's 2022 Water Supply Strategy, which 

includes creating new water supplies through desalting brackish groundwater. 

SupplyType 2020 1 2025 1 2030 1 2035 1 2040 1 2045 

Groundwater 44,651 1 50,968 1 53,159 1 54,118 1 54,424 154,735 

Imported Water 11,925 6,109 6,203 6,197 6,185 6,173 

Recycled Water 1,472 1,642 1,642 1,642 1,642 1,642 

Total Supplies (AFY) 58,048 58,719 61,004 61,957 62,251 62;550 

10% Reduction in Supplies (AFY) 52,243 52,847 54,904 55,761 56,026 56;295 

total Demands (AFY) 58,048 58,,719 61,004 61,957 . 63,251 62,560 

Imbalance -10%Reduction(AfYJ X5,805 -5,872 -6,100 -6,196 -6,225 -6,255 

a. (Source) Supply and demand projections based on the Mesa Water, Huntington Beach, 

and Newport Beach 2020 UWMP, (Arcadis, 2021). 

4.1.1.3 Potential Uses and Markets for Desalinated Water 

The Local SiP will supplement the domestic drinking water supply by treating brackish 

groundwater within the OC Basin. 

4.1.1.4 Potential Source Water 

The potential source of water for the Local SiP is located on the seaward side of the Talbert 

injection barrier within the OC Basin, which is considered a brackish groundwater source as 

shown on Figure 4-2 and Figure 4-3. The location of the potential well field and aquifer 

pumped (shallow, principal, or deep) will be determined as part of the feasibility study. 

Treatment options will be evaluated based on the water quality characteristics. 

4-6 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.1.2 Sub-criterion 1b - Evaluation of Project Alternatives 

1. Describe the objectives that all alternatives will be designed to meet. What other 

water supply alternatives and project alternatives will be investigated? 

2. Describe how the planning activities will develop project alternatives (water supply 

sources, reuse strategies, or treatment technologies) that have been or will be 

investigated. 

3. Provide a general description of the selected project, including project features, 

benefits, anticipated costs, and analyses conducted. 

4. Include a preliminary schedule showing major tasks, milestones, and dates for the 

planning, design, and construction activities related to the project. 

4.1.2.1 Objectives of Alternatives 

The overarching objectives of the Local SiP are to evaluate opportunities to supplement 

local supply sources by pumping and treating areas of the OC Basin that are impacted by 

brackish groundwater and potentially protect existing production wells that may be 

susceptible to seawater intrusion. All alternatives will evaluate pumping, treatment, and 

conveyance needs that are sized to produce between 5,600 to 8,960 AFY of new and 

flexible supplies. The goal is to identify the most cost-effective alternative with the highest 

beneficial use of brackish groundwater. Other supply alternatives are not being considered. 

4.1.2.2 Planning Activities for Project Alternatives 

The Local SiP brackish groundwater desalination feasibility study will be guided by the 

requirements of WTR 11-01and will evaluate groundwater pumping opportunities for all 

aquifers, sub-aquifers, and zones seaward of the Talbert Barrier, which is an injection barrier 

within the study area that prevents seawater intrusion into the OC Basin. The assessment 

will include an evaluation of groundwater characteristics, such as, production potential, 

water quality, and seawater intrusion impacts for up to four (4) wellfield locations. In 

addition, treatment needs and potential plant locations will be identified. Once the preferred 

wellfield and treatment plant location alternatives have been selected, pipeline alignments 

will be assessed. All alternatives will be verified through groundwater modeling and an 

environmental review will be performed to identify potential impacts for top ranked 

alternatives. Preliminary cost estimates will also be developed. The activities will be 

performed in collaboration with partnering agencies and will provide the framework for 

selecting a proposed project alternative that can be moved into design and construction. 

4.1.2.3 Selected Project Alternative 

The proposed project includes the development of a feasibility study that will assess initial 

findings and perform an alternative analysis that will be used to screen and select a 

preferred alternative with support from partners and stakeholders. The most cost-effective 

alternative with the highest beneficial use will likely be selected. The estimated cost to 

perform the feasibility study is approximately $500,000, which includes performing a siting 

study to identify wellfield and treatment plant locations, groundwater modeling to 

understand the groundwater characteristics and potential groundwater impacts, and an 

alternatives analysis to screen and select a preferred alternative. Since the project is in the 

4-7 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

early planning stages, the anticipated design and construction cost estimates have not been 

finalized. However, the preliminary cost estimate for the planning, design, and construction 

of the Local SiP is approximately $170 million, which will be re-evaluated as part of the 

feasibility study. 

4.1.2.4 Preliminary Schedule 

The following schedule shown on Figure 4-4 outlines the preliminary schedule for the Local 

SiP from planning through design and construction. It is anticipated that the feasibility will 

be kicked off in the last quarter of 2023 and will be completed by December 2024. A pilot 

study will then be performed between 2024 through 2025. The design is anticipated to start 

in 2026 with an estimated completion date of 2027. Permitting tasks will be performed 

during both design and construction activities. The construction is anticipated start in 2028 

with a completion date of 2030. Start-up will then commence and will be completed in early 

2031. Once the feasibility study is completed, the preliminary project schedule will be 

updated. 

Grant Funding 

Interagency Agreements 

RFP for Feasibility Study 

Feasibility Study Award 

Feasibility Study 

RFP for Pilot Study 

Pilot Study 

RFP for Design 

Facility 

Design Contract 

Design 

Award ig

Permitting 

Bid Period 

Testing 

Construction 

and Startup 

i~~ 

MEN 

Figure 4-4. Local SIP preliminary project schedule 

4-8 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.2 Evaluation Criteria 2 - Stretching Water Supplies 

1. Describe the potential for the project to reduce, postpone, or eliminate the 

development of new or expanded non-recycled water supplies. 

2. Describe the potential for the project to alleviate pressure on existing water supplies 

and/or facilities. Please describe the existing water supplies, identify the supplies 

and/or facilities that will be impacted and explain how they will be impacted by the 

Project, including quantifications where applicable. 

3. Describe the potential for the project to make water available to address a specific 

concern. Explain the specific concern and its severity. Also explain the role of the 

project being investigated in addressing that concern and the extent to which the 

project will address it (refer to list of concerns in FOMO). 

4. Describe the potential for the project to help create additional flexibility to address 

drought. Will water made available by the project being investigated continue to be 

available during periods of drought? To what extent is the water made available by 

the project being investigated more drought resistant than alternative water supply 

options? Explain. 

4.2.1 Potential to Reduce, Postpone, or Eliminate New or Expanded Non-Recycled 

Water Supplies 

The Local SiP would produce between 5,600 and 8,960 AFY of potable water. This facility 

could eliminate the need for new groundwater wells drilled into the principal aquifer within 

the OC Basin that would be needed to replace the 10 percent supply reduction due to 

climate change. The Local SiP will also reduce reliance on imported water sources and help 

offset the need to expand imported water facilities on the SWP or CRA. 

4.2.2 Alleviate Pressure on Existing Water Supplies and/or Facilities 

As previously mentioned, the primary supply sources for Mesa Water, Huntington Beach, 

and Newport Beach include groundwater from the principal aquifer of the OC Basin and 

imported water from the SWP and CRA. The Local SiP will alleviate pressure on these 

existing water supplies by reducing reliance on imported water and providing alternative 

supplies within the OC Basin by pumping and treating from areas impacted by brackish 

groundwater due to seawater intrusion. As listed in Section 4.1.1.2, the proposed Local SiP 

will help offset the potential 10 percent reduction in total supply resulting from climate 

change, strengthen local supply security, and help meet future demands by providing a 

supplemental supply source of approximately 5,600 to 8,960 AFY. The Local SiP would 

offset the potential 10 percent reduction in supply due to climate change or offset imported 

water demands for three agencies. 

In addition, the Local SiP has the potential to protect existing production wells from 

seawater intrusion impacts, which will be analyzed as part of the feasibility. When placed in 

strategic locations with sufficient distance from the existing Talbert Barrier, additional 

brackish groundwater wells could create an additional line of defense against seawater 

intrusion and associated water quality issues, which in-turn maintains basin integrity and 

sustainability and alleviates pressure on existing facilities. 

4-9 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.2.3 Potential to Make Water Available to Address a Specific Concern 

The Local SiP will address concerns related to water supply shortages, water supply 

reliability, and water quality issues. 

As previously mentioned, the Local SiP project area is located in a coastal community of 

Central Orange County, California that is both impacted by extreme drought conditions due 

to climate change and brackish groundwater due to seawater intrusion. In fact, the extended 

drought has had a significant impact on the availability of imported water supplies from the 

SWP and CRA, which serves as a back-up source of water for Mesa Water and is used by 

partnering agencies to meet over 20 percent of demands. As climate change continues to 

increase the supply and demand gap by 10 percent, there is a need to transition away from 

historical water management strategies and prioritize resiliency and the development of 

local water supplies. In addition, coastal agencies have competing water supply challenges 

due to issues like brackish groundwater resulting from seawater intrusion. The study area 

overlays the shallow, principal, and deep aquifers of the OC Basin with areas that have TDS 

concentrations that exceed 2,000 mg/L. Over 95 percent of the groundwater that is 

currently pumped from the OC Basin comes from the principal aquifer, which is of higher 

water quality. However, a large portion of the study area overlays the shallow aquifer, which 

has experienced the highest water quality contamination threats. Currently, Newport Beach 

is the only project partner that pumps from this shallow aquifer for municipal use. Also, 

existing domestic wells are located near or along the chloride contour line, which is used to 

track seawater intrusion impacts. In fact, domestic wells within the City of Huntington Beach 

were removed from service as a result of high salinity levels. 

To address these challenges, opportunities for a new well field and treatment facility with a 

treatment capacity ranging between 5 to 8 mgd (or 5,600 to 8,960 AFY) will be evaluated, 

which will increase local supplies, treat brackish groundwater, and potentially mitigate or 

offset the impacts of seawater intrusion by locating wells seaward of the injection barrier. 

4.2.4 Potential to Create Additional Flexibility to Address Drought 

The Local SiP will provide a flexible supply that will be available during drought periods. The 

potential wellfield will be located seaward of the injection barrier that is impacted by 

brackish groundwater due to seawater intrusion. This area of the OC Basin is primarily 

replenished with recycled water at the injection barrier, which reduces reliance on supply 

sources that are vulnerable to climate change, such as, imported water and incidental 

recharge. These supply sources will likely be reduced by approximately 10 percent by the 

year 2040 (DWR, 2022). 

The proposed project is more drought resilient and potentially more cost-effective than other 

alternative supply options like ocean desalination since groundwater will be pumped from a 

brackish region of the OC Basin and treated to drinking water standards. This area of the 

OC Basin is primarily recharged with recycled water, which is considered a more drought 

resilient supply source. 

4-10 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.3 Evaluation Criteria 3 - Environment and Water Quality 

1. Describe the potential for the project to imp )ve the quality of surface water or 

groundwater. 

2. Describe the potential for the project to improve effluent quality beyond levels 

necessary to meet State or Federal discharge requirements. 

3. Describe the potential for the project to improve flow conditions in a natural stream 

channel. 

4. Describe the potential for the project to restore or enhance habitat for non-listed fish 

and wildlife species. 

5. Describe the potential for the project to provide water or habitat for federally listed 

threatened or endangered species. 

4.3.1 Potential to Improve Water Quality 

The location of the wellfield for the Local SiP is a critical aspect of the project's feasibility. By 

locating the wells within areas of the OC Basin that are impacted by seawater intrusion, the 

wells could draw the 250 mg/L chloride contour further away from existing production wells 

in the principal aquifer. This movement of chloride concentrations would improve water 

quality of the principal aquifer. A significant task for the Local SiP feasibility study is to 

model the impacts of the wells on the OC Basin and provide field testing to verify modeling 

assumptions. 

In addition, the Local SiP will pump and treat brackish groundwater from the OC Basin, 

which will increase local supplies by 5 to 8 mgd (or 5,600 to 8,960 AFY). 

4.3.2 Potential to Improve Effluent Quality 

Historically, brine or waste discharge for the watershed has been treated at Orange County 

Sanitation District's facilities. The Local SiP will likely not have an impact on effluent quality 

since it is a small percentage of the overall influent flow at the wastewater treatment plant. 

However, the waste discharge will be evaluated as part of the feasibility study. 

4.3.3 Potential to Improve Natural Stream Channel Flow Conditions 

The Local SiP will not have a direct impact on natural stream channel flow conditions. 

However, the project will alleviate pressure on imported water and replenishment sources of 

the OC Basin, which include natural stream flows. 

4.3.4 Potential to Restore, Enhance, or Provide Water or Habitat 

The project will help continue to maintain habitat upstream within the Santa Ana River 

Watershed and Prado Basin. The Prado Basin, which lies within the Santa Ana River Basin, 

contains the largest stand of forested riparian habitat remaining in coastal Southern 

California. The preservation and management of this ecosystem provides habitat for a wide 

variety of wildlife, including many federal and state listed species. The Local SiP could 

improve the health and resiliency of the Prado Basin ecosystems by drawing on an 

alternative, brackish source of water that will have minimal impacts to natural resources. 

Brackish groundwater wells will be located inland, so there is no intake from the ocean that 

4-11 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

may impact non-listed fish and wildlife species. An environmental impacts analysis will be 

performed to confirm compliance for preferred alternatives. 

The Local SiP will be developed in coordination with the Santa Ana Watershed Association 

(SAWA) to prioritize watershed stewardship and identify the potential upstream benefits of 

this project. SAWA has a long history of implementing natural resource programs to support 

a sustainable ecosystem, enhance habitat, and protect endangered and threatened species. 

SAWA maintains comprehensive data on wildlife management which can be utilized to 

understand how developing this additional supply may improve watershed health and 

provide benefits to the native, endangered species of the region. 

4.4 Evaluation Criteria 4 - Department of Interior Priorities 

1. Climate Change: Extent the project will reduce climate pollution; increase resilience 

to the impacts of climate change; protect public health; and conserve our lands, 

waters, oceans, and biodiversity. Address the following as relevant to your project. 

• Please provide specific details and examples on how the project will address 

the impacts of climate change and help combat the climate crisis. 

• Does this proposed project strengthen water supply sustainability to increase 

resilience to climate change? Does the proposed project contribute to climate 

change resiliency in other ways not described above? 

2. Disadvantaged or Underserved Communities: Extent to which the Project serves 

economically disadvantaged or underserved communities in rural or urban areas. 

• Will the proposed project serve or benefit a disadvantaged or historically 

underserved community? Benefits can include, but are not limited to, public 

health and safety by addressing water quality, new water supplies, or 

economic growth opportunities. 

• Please describe in detail how the community is disadvantaged based on a 

combination of variables (refer to list in FOMO). 

3. Tribal Benefits: Points will be awarded based on the extent to which the Project will 

honor the Federal government's commitments to Tribal Nations. 

4.4.1 Climate Change Impacts 

Maintaining a sustainable water supply and increasing supply resiliency is a top priority for 

Mesa Water, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and OCWD as the impacts of climate 

change become increasingly realized. Severe droughts, evapotranspiration, limited 

snowpack, and unpredictable precipitation have continuously occurred and increasing 

temperatures are stressing California's water supplies and leading to shortages throughout 

the state. In order to address these climate change impacts, California must rethink its 

water strategy to focus on conservation, stretching current supplies through reuse and water 

recycling projects, and creating additional alternative water supplies. As a desalination 

planning project, the Local SiP falls under latter. Brackish groundwater desalination has 

been identified as a key strategy to adapt to climate change impacts and develop resilient 

water resources; as brackish groundwater is more resistant to drought impacts and rising 

temperatures, such as increased evaporation. DWR estimates that by 2040, California will 

face a 10 percent reduction in water supplies due to less snowfall, more evaporation, and 

4-12 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

increased water consumption by the atmosphere and water-scarce soils and vegetation. 

This reduction, combined with increased demand projections throughout California due to 

population increase and high temperatures, emphasizes the need to prioritize alternative 

water supply sources and utilize desalination technology to access resources that have 

historically been unused. By developing a drought resilient brackish groundwater resource, 

Mesa Water and partnering agencies will be less vulnerable to water resource limitations in 

times of severe, prolonged drought and also provide regional benefits to Southern California 

by freeing up imported water and fresh groundwater to be transported to areas in need. For 

example, imported water that has been historically used by Huntington Beach and Newport 

Beach, could now be saved for other agencies that do not have access to local supply 

options, and therefore improve resiliency within the local region, watershed, and state. 

Disadvantaged or Underserved Communities 

The Local SiP will benefit disadvantaged communities (DAC) both within Mesa Water and 

throughout the entire Santa Ana River Watershed. The treatment of the brackish 

groundwater supply source through the Local SiP will positively impact the DAC within Mesa 

Water's service area (13 percent of the population) by increasing water security while also 

freeing up water supplies to enhance supply reliability for the Santa Ana River Watershed, 

where DAC makeup about 23 percent of the population. Details regarding underrepresented 

communities within Mesa Water and the Santa Ana River Watershed are shown on Figure 4-5 

and Figure 4-6. 

4-13 
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WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

Figure 4-5. Mesa Water DAC, DWR map tool 

(Source: DWR Map Tool) 

4-14 
-4f 

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-140 

South OrateOourty WMAss 

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Figure 46.Santa Ana River Watershed DAC, DWR map tool 

(Source: DWR Map Tool) 

WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.15 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.4.2 Tribal Benefits 

This project does not directly serve and/or benefit a Tribe. 

4.5 Evaluation Criterion 5 - Watershed Perspective and 

Stakeholder Involvement 

1. Will the proposed project implement a regional or state water plan or an integrated resource 

management plan? Explain. 

2. Will the proposed project helpmeet the water supply needs of a large geographic 

area, region, or watershed? Explain. 

3. Will the proposed project promote collaborative partnerships to address waterrelated issues? Explain. Describe stakeholder involvement in the project planning 

process. 

4. Will the proposed project include public outreach and opportunities for the public to 

learn about the project? Explain. 

4.5.1 Impact to Regional or State Water Plan or Integrated Resource Management 

While Mesa Water is the lead agency developing the Local SiP, the feasibility study will be 

the product of collaboration with various agencies in Orange County and within the Santa 

Ana River Watershed to provide regional benefits. The selected project from the Local SiP 

will be developed and implemented as a regional supply source, available to partnering 

agencies and any additional stakeholders identified. In addition, the Local SiP will work with 

OCWD to optimize well locations to provide the greatest benefits to groundwater quality and 

management. This optimization has the potential to improve the health of the OC Basin, 

which is a critical water resource for Southern California. Lastly, the Local SiP is in line with 

the State of California's 2022 Water Supply Strategy by investigating ways to create a new 

water source through desalination of brackish groundwater. 

4.5.2 Water Supply Support for Large Area, Region or Watershed 

The Local SiP is intended to offset the need of areas in Orange County that are currently 

importing water from SWP and CRA. By providing additional supply, the Local SiP can reduce 

reliance on imported supplies from these already stressed water systems. This offset can 

provide direct benefits to agencies that rely on imported water supply by reducing purchased 

imported water volumes, but also indirect benefits to the SWP and CRA by relieving pressure 

on the system. Imported supplies that have been historically used by Huntington Beach and 

Newport Beach can be freed up and used by other agencies within the local region and 

Santa Ana River Watershed that have limited access to local supplies or have been 

impacted by water quality issues (i.e., Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) that have 

impacted well production. The Local SiP aligns with State and Federal goals to increase 

regional partnerships and collaboration to build a reliable and drought proof water system 

for the future. Additionally, the Local SiP could further protect the OC Basin from seawater 

intrusion, which would benefit all groundwater producers within the OC Basin. 

4-16 
WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

4.5.3 Collaborative Partnerships to Address Water-Related Issues 

The feasibility study will encourage stakeholder involvement and collaboration throughout 

each phase of the project. The treated brackish groundwater supply source and desalter will 

be utilized as regional resource for Mesa Water, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, OCWD 

and other potential agencies served by the OC Basin. Mesa Water has already engaged with 

interested partners to obtain commitment and develop initial framework of the Local SiP. 

Throughout the development of the Local SiP, Mesa Water will routinely work with 

representatives from each partnering agency and additional stakeholders to assess 

management practices that maximize beneficial uses within the region. As conditions 

fluctuate over time, Mesa Water understands the importance of flexibility when it comes to 

resource management and will prioritize maintaining open lanes of communication with 

partners and interested stakeholders. 

4.5.4 Public Outreach and Opportunities 

Mesa Water engages in public outreach and education programs related to water 

conservation and water use efficiency efforts, as well as general water resource information. 

Current public outreach efforts are aimed at increasing consumer awareness for 

conservation, efficient water use and investing in water reliability projects that are in the 

best interest of the region. 

Opportunities for the public to learn about the Local SiP will include multiple public meetings 

— where the feasibility study will be slated for discussion, information, presentation, and 

possible action —taking place at Mesa Water, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and 

OCWD. Other public outreach about the project will include newsletter articles, press 

releases, social media postings, and website postings by Mesa Water. After the Local SiP 

feasibility study is completed, the results and any next steps will include the aforementioned 

public outreach and opportunities for the public to learn about the project. 

4-17 
Section f 

Project Budget 

5.1 Funding Plan 

The non-Federal cost share for the Local SiP will be funded by Mesa Water through its 

capital budget, and contributions from OCWD, Huntington Beach, and the Newport Beach. 

As Local SiP partners with Mesa Water, Newport Beach and Huntington Beach are 

anticipated to contribute $25,000 each in funding and OCWD is anticipated to contribute 

$50,000. Mesa Water will make up the difference to reach a total non-Federal funding 

amount of $250,000 as authorized by Mesa Water's Board of Directors. Funding 

commitment letters from Huntington Beach and OCWD are expected to be received by 

March 30th and April 27th, respectively. The funding commitment letter for Newport Beach is 

attached with this application. All funds will be made available to the applicant prior to the 

award date and there are no anticipated contingencies or time constraints associated with 

the funding throughout the duration of the project. 

5.2 Budget Proposal: 

The estimated total cost of the Local SiP feasibility study is $500,000, which includes 

$250,000 from Mesa Water and partnering agencies to meet the required match, and 

$250,000 in funding from the USBR WaterSMART grant. Budget will be allocated for 

payments to a selected consulting firm, following a competitive process, to complete the 

various planning activities guided by the scope of work and WTR 11-01, including but not 

limited to the following identified tasks: 

• Identify potential groundwater supply opportunities 

• Siting analysis for groundwater well and desalter locations 

• Evaluation of groundwater impacts 

. Evaluation of advanced treatment options and waste management procedures 

• Alternatives Analysis 

• Economic Analysis 

. Selection of the Proposed Project 

. Hydrogeologic field investigation 

. Environmental Compliance and Permitting Review 

• Identification of Additional Research Needs 

• Implementation Schedule and Capital and operations and maintenance (0&M) Cost 

Estimates 

• Final Feasibility Report 

• Project management and meetings 

5-18 
Project Budget - WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

Tables 5-1 and 5-2 summarize the respective proposed non-Federal and Federal funding 

source components and total estimated project costs, respectively. All expenses related to 

the feasibility study will be direct costs made by a selected consulting firm and paid by Mesa 

Water through the planned project budget. Funds will be available throughout the duration 

of the project, with anticipated calendar year 2023 spending of $80,000 and calendar year 

2024 spending of $420,000. 

Funding Sources Funding Amount 

Non-Federal Entities 

Mesa Water $150,000 

OCWD 1 $50,000 

City of Huntington Beach 1 $25,000 

City of Newport Beach 1 $25,000 

Non-Federal Subtotal 1 $250,000 

Federal Funding 

Requested USBR Funding 1 $250,000 

Total Project Funding I $500,000 

Source i Amount 

Costs to be reimbursed with the requested Federal funding 1 $250,000 

Costs to be paid by the applicant 1 $250,000 

Value of third-party contributions 1 $0 

Total Project Cost I $500,000 

5.3 Budget Narrative: 

Salaries and Wages: The project manager for the feasibility study will be Andrew D. Wiesner, 

P.E., District Engineer for Mesa Water. The cost of labor is not proposed to be utilized as 

agency match or reimbursement by USBR, therefore, for the purpose of project budgeting, 

these items are estimated to be $0. 

Fridge Benefits: No fringe benefits are proposed to be utilized as agency match or 

reimbursed by USBR, therefore, for the purpose of project budgeting, these items are 

estimated to be $0. 

Travel: No travel expenses are proposed to be utilized as agency match or reimbursed by 

USBR, therefore, for the purpose of project budgeting, these items are estimated to be $0. 

5-19 
Project Budget - WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

Equipment: No equipment is proposed to be utilized as agency match or reimbursed by 

USBR, therefore, for the purpose of project budgeting, these items are estimated to be $0. 

Materials and Supplies: No materials are proposed to be utilized as agency match or 

reimbursed by USBR, therefore, for the purpose of project budgeting, these items are 

estimated to be $0. 

Contractual: No contractual costs are anticipated. 

Construction: No construction costs are anticipated. 

Other Expenses: Table 5-3 provides a summary of the anticipated costs of contracting with a 

consulting firm to complete the Local SiP feasibility study. One professional service 

agreement is anticipated to be awarded through a competitive process. A consulting firm will 

be selected based on their expertise related to hydrogeologic conditions of the OC Basin, 

brackish groundwater management and treatment, water resources planning, the Southern 

California water market, and environmental analysis. The specific rates for the contractual 

services are not known that this time but have been estimated based on the scope of work 

to utilize the budget for the project. Consultant fees will be reviewed for competitiveness 

based on comparisons with other proposals and recently completed work for similar 

services. 

Indirect Costs: No indirect costs are anticipated. 

Total Cost: The total cost of the project is estimated to be $500,000 

5-20 
Project Budget - WaterSMART Funding Opportunity No. R23AS00076 

Table 5-3. Project iBreakdown 

Task No. Task Name/Description Task Cost Estimated Hours 

1 Project Management and Meetings $25,000 100 

2 Quality Control $15,000 50 

3 SitingAnalysis and Groundwater Supply Opportunities $32,000 160 

4 Groundwater Source Assessment and Water Quality Analysis $16,000 80 

5 Evaluation of Groundwater Impacts $40,000 200 

6 Water Use MarketAnalysis $16,000 80 

7 Alternatives Analysis $32,000 160 

8 Economic Analysis $24,000 120 

9 Selection of the Proposed Project and Hydrogeologic Field 

Investigation $196,000 980 

10 Environmental Compliance and PermittingReview $48,000 240 

11 Identification of Additional Research Needs $8,000 40 

12 Implementation Schedule and Cost Estimates (Including 

Capital and 0&M) $16,000 80 

13 Final Feasibility Report $32,000 160 

Project Total $500,000 2,450 

5-21 
Appendix A: Letters of Funding Commitment 

6-22 
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH 

Utilities Department 

949 W. 161" Street 

Newport Beach, California 92663 

utilitiesinfo@newportbeachca.gov 

FOR% 

February 9, 2023 

Paul E. Shoenberger, P.E. 

General Manager 

Mesa Water District 

1965 Placentia Avenue 

Costa Mesa, CA 92627 

RE: Funding Commitment for the Local groundwater Supply 

Improvement Project ("Local SIP") 

Dear Mr. Shoenberger, 

The City of Newport Beach (City) has prepared this letter of funding commitment 

in support of Mesa Water District's Local groundwater Supply Improvement 

Project ("Local SiP")—to explore the benefits of desalinating brackish 

groundwaterto improve local and regional water supply reliability within the Orange 

County Groundwater Basin,. which provides water for over 2.5 million people in 

North and Central Orange County, including Newport Beach. 

To support execution of the Local SiP, the City will provide $25,000.00 to Mesa 

Water District (Mesa Water®). This funding has been set aside and will be 

available to Mesa Water no later than July 30, 2023. 

Developed through a collaborative process involving the City ofHuntington Beach, 

City of Newport Beach, Orange County Water District-(which manages the Orange 

County Groundwater Basin), and Mesa Water, the Local SiP would study a multiagency undertaking to secure -- for our current population, including 

disadvantaged residents and underserved communities, and future generations --

a new source of water supply that is: abundant, affordable, environmentallysensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and resilient to climate change, 

drought, and other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

With the objective of providing Mesa Water and its partnering agencies with the 

framework for selecting a proposed project alternative to move into design and 

construction, the Local SiP will evaluate treatment alternatives for a 5 to 8 million 

gallons per day (MGD) regional brackish groundwater desalter, proposed locations 

for production wells, needed conveyance, and cost estimates. The Local SiP will 

also review potential groundwater and environmental impacts. 
We appreciate the opportunity to partner with Mesa Water on this collaborative project and 

understand the important water reliability benefits that this project could provide -- such as 

climate change adaption, local water supply diversification, flexibility and improvement, 

and alleviation of current and future drought impacts to our City and the region. 

Please contact me at (949) 644-3011 or mvukoievic(aD-newportbeachca.gov should 

you have any questions or need additional information. 

Sincerely, 

Mark Vukojevic, P.E. 

Utilities Director, City of Newport Beach 

Page 2 of 2 
Appendix B: Official Resolution 

6-22 
RESOLUTION NO. 1574 

RESOLUTION OF THE 

MESA WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

AUTHORIZING ACTIONS FOR GRANT APPLICATION, ACCEPTANCE AND 

EXECUTION FOR THE MESA WATER LOCAL GROUNDWATER 

SUPPLY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 

WHEREAS, Mesa Water District (Mesa Water@) is a county water district organized and 

operating pursuant to the laws of the State of California (State or California); and 

WHEREAS, Mesa Water proposes to implement the Mesa Water Local groundwater 

Supply Improvement Project (Local SiP), which Local SiP is described in documents on file 

with Mesa Water's District Secretary; and 

WHEREAS, Mesa Water has the legal authority to enter into a funding agreement with 

the United States Department of Interior's Bureau of Reclamation; and 

WHEREAS, Mesa Water intends to apply for grant funding for the Local SiP from the 

United States Department of Interior's Bureau of Reclamation; and 

WHEREAS, Mesa Water's Board of Directors (Board) has reviewed, and supports, the 

grant application to be submitted to the United States Department of Interior's Bureau of 

Reclamation for the Local SiP; and 

WHEREAS, Mesa Water will work with the United States Department of Interior's 

Bureau of Reclamation to meet established deadlines for entering into a grant agreement; and 

WHEREAS, the Board desires to authorize all actions necessary or desirable to apply 

for, and obtain, such grant funding, 

NOW, THEREFORE, THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MESA WATER 

DISTRICT DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE, AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS: 

Section 1. That pursuant and subject to all of the terms and provisions of the United 

States Department of Interior, Mesa Water's General Manager (General 

Manager) or the General Manager's designee(s), is hereby authorized and 

directed to prepare and file a WaterSmart: Water Recycling and 

Desalination Planning grant funding application with the United States 

Department of Interior's Bureau of Reclamation and take such other and 

further actions as may be necessary or appropriate to seek and obtain 

such grant funding for the Local SiP. 

Section 2. The General Manager, or the General Manager's designee(s), is hereby 

authorized and directed to execute the applicable funding agreement, 

including any amendments and supplements thereto, with the United 

Resolution No. 1574 Page 1 of 2 Adopted: February 22, 2023 
States Department of Interior's Bureau of Reclamation in connection with 

obtaining such grant funding. 

Section 3. The General Manager, or the General Manager's designee(s), is hereby 

authorized to submit any required information, documents, invoices, and 

reports, and to take other related and/or necessary or desirable actions, 

to seek and obtain such grant funding. 

Section 4. This Resolution shall take effect upon adoption by the Board. 

ADOPTED, SIGNED, and APPROVED this 22nd day of February 2023 by a roll call vote. 

AYES: DIRECTORS: Atkinson, Bockmiller, Fisler, DePasquale, Dewane 

NOES: DIRECTORS: 

ABSTAIN: DIRECTORS: ~-

ABSENT: DIRECTORS: 

President, Board of Directors 

Denise Garcia 

District Secretary 

Resolution No. 1574 Page 2 of 2 Adopted: February 22, 2023 
State of California 

County of Orange 

I, Denise Garcia, District Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Mesa Water District, do 

hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 1574 was duly passed and adopted by the 

Board of Directors of the Mesa Water District at its regular Board meeting held on February 22, 

2023, by the following vote: 

AYES: DIRECTORS: Atkinson, Bockmiller, Fisler, DePasquale, Dewane 

NOES: DIRECTORS: 

ABSTAIN: DIRECTORS: 

ABSENT: DIRECTORS: 

1 01 

ZO~eRsg-barcia 

District Secretary 
Appendix C: Letters of Support 

Additional Letters of Support for the Local SiP are being mailed directly to 

Ms. Gould from Congresswoman Porter, Senator Feinstein, and Senator Padilla. 

6-22 
STATE CAPITOL 

P.O. BOX 942849 

SACRAMENTO, CA 94249-0115 

California ~rgisXtt#ixrr 

February 13, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") -- Support for 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant Application by 

Mesa Water District to study regional brackish groundwater desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould, 

This letter is to express to you and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation our strong support for the 

WaterSMART grant application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking assistance for 

its Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SIP") feasibility study. The Local 

SiP would explore the benefits of desalinating brackish groundwater to improve local and 

regional water supply reliability within the Orange County Groundwater Basin ("OC Basin"), 

which provides water for over 2.5 million people in North and Central Orange County. 

California is experiencing increasingly extreme weather conditions, with less predictable 

precipitation patterns, followed by longer and more frequent dry and hot periods. Climate 

change is reducing the reliability of the state's precipitation and snowpack. Due to the 

uncertainties of imported water supplies from Northern California and the Colorado River, local 

and regional water supply reliability for Orange County is more important now than ever. The 

Local SiP seeks to further diversify and improve local water supplies for added flexibility and 

regional reliability within the OC Basin, which is already a leader in potable water reuse and 

water use efficiency. 

The Local SiP would study a multi-agency collaboration -- between Mesa Water, the Orange 

County Water District, and the Cities of Huntington Beach and Newport Beach -- to secure a 

new source of water supply for the OC Basin that is: abundant, affordable, environmentallysensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and resilient to climate change, drought, and 

other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

Governor Newsom and his Administration have provided clear signals -- through the state's 

document entitled "California's Water Supply Strategy" and in many other venues -- that the 

ongoing development of new water supplies, such as desalination, must be embraced. 

Because brackish groundwater desalination projects like the Local SiP could help insulate 

Orange County's economy and residents from the devastating impacts of prolonged and 

ongoing drought, we respectfully request a favorable review of Mesa Water's application. 

Printed on Recycled Paper 
Sincerely, 

Janet guyen, Senator 

36th Senate District 

Kelly Seyarto, Senator 

32nd Senate District 

FAw I WEE "RZ~ 

Tn Ta, Assembly Member 

70th Assembly District 

c AA~__A" 

Cottie Petrie-Norris, Assembly Member 

731 Assembly District 

JaZe~ o CiK_e_x_~ 

Phillip Chen, Assembly Member 

59th Assembly District 

1) 4 

Diane Dixon, Assembly Member 

72nd Assembly District 
STATE CAPITOL 

P.O. BOX 942849 ASSlem Iv 

SACRAMENTO, CA 94249-0072 C 

(916) 319-2072 

FAX (916) 319-2172 Ufforulin " iegislafurr 

February 13, 2023 STA]'2,

O k 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director DIANE B. DIXON 

U.S. Bureau ASSEMBLYMEMBER. SEVENTY-SECOND DISTRIC T of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") — Support for 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant Application by Mesa Water District to 

study regional brackish groundwater desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould, 

This letter is to express to you and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation our strong support for the WaterSMART grant 

application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking assistance for its Local groundwater Supply 

Improvement Project ("Local SiP") feasibility study. The Local SiP would explore the benefits of desalinating 

brackish groundwater to improve local and regional water supply reliability within the Orange County 

Groundwater Basin ("OC Basin"), which provides water for over 2.5 million people in North and Central Orange 

County. 

California is experiencing increasingly extreme weather conditions, with less predictable precipitation patterns, 

followed by longer and more frequent dry and hot periods. Thus, creating new sources of potable water is an 

ever-present need and will continue to be for many years. Due to the uncertainties of imported water supplies 

from Northern California and the Colorado River, local and regional water supply reliability for Orange County is 

more important now than ever. The Local SiP seeks to further diversify and improve local water supplies for 

added flexibility and regional reliability within the OC Basin, which is already a leader in potable water reuse and 

water use efficiency. 

The Local SiP would study a multi-agency collaboration -- between Mesa Water, the Orange County Water 

District, and the Cities of Huntington Beach and Newport Beach -- to secure a new source of water supply for the 

OC Basin that is: abundant, affordable, environmentally-sensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and 

resilient to climate change, drought, and other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

Orange County's dependency on imported water will only increase as more people move to California and the 

region. Working together, it is imperative that we plan for and create our future water supplies using all 

available tools, and new water supplies, such as desalination, must be embraced. Additionally, because brackish 

groundwater desalination projects like the Local SiP could help insulate Orange County's economy and residents 

from the devastating impacts of prolonged and ongoing drought, we respectfully request a favorable review of 

Mesa Water's application. 

Sincerely, 

Diane Dixon 

Assembly District 72 

Printed on Rec;rc/ed Paper 
STATE CAPITOL 

P.O. BOX 942849 

SACRAMENTO, CA 94249.0068 

(916) 319-2068 

FAX (916) 319-2168 (1~cXi~urxtT~ ~E~~sXtt#urn • sT~r~ 

— 

r ~ 

AVELINO VALENCIA 

ASSEMBIYMEMBER, SIX'T'Y-EIGHTH I)ISTRICI' 

February 17, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") — Support for 

WaterSMART:Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant Application by Mesa Water 

District to study regional brackish groundwater desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould, 

I write in strong support for the WaterSMART grant application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking 

assistance for its Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") feasibility study. The Local 

SiP would explore the benefits of desalinating brackish groundwater to improve local and regional water supply 

reliability within the Orange County Groundwater Basin ("OC Basin"), which provides water for over 2.5 million 

people in North and Central Orange County. 

As you know; California is experiencing increasingly extreme weather conditions, with less predictable 

precipitation patterns, followed by longer and more frequent dry and hot periods. As a result, local and regional 

water supply reliability for Orange County is more important now than ever. The Local SiP seeks to further 

diversify and improve local water supplies for added flexibility and regional reliability within the OC Basin, 

which is already a leader in potable water reuse and water use efficiency. 

The Local SiP would study a multi-agency collaboration -- between Mesa Water, the Orange County Water 

District, and the Cities of Huntington Beach and Newport Beach -- to secure a new source of water supply for the 

OC Basin that is: abundant, affordable, environmentally-sensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and 

resilient to climate change, drought, and other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. 

In Service, 

AVELINO VALENCIA 

Assemblymember 68th District 

AV: nt 
CAPITOL OFFICE COMMITTEES 1021 O STREET ku'alifarnia State ,Senate NATURAL RESOURCES AND WATER 

SACRAMENTO. CA 95814 CHAIR 

(916) 651-4037 

SUITE 6710 

SENATOR BANKING AND 

DISTRICT OFFICE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

2151 MICHELSON DRIVE DAVE MIN

SUITE 258 BUDGET AND FISCAL REVIEW THIRTY-SEVENTH SENATE DISTRICT IRVINE, CA 92612 BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE M I (949)223-5472 ON EDUCATION 

WWW SENATE.CA.GOWMIN ENERGY. UTILITIES AND 

COMMUNICATIONS 

JUDICIARY 

February 17, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

Dear Regional Director Gould: 

This letter is to express my support for Mesa Water District's (Mesa Water(l) WaterSMART 

grant application for $250,000 for the Local Groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local 

Sip"). 

The proposed feasibility study by Mesa Water District is an innovative response to the pressing 

need for environmental protection and improved water quality, and will investigate the benefits 

and environmental impacts of desalinating brackish groundwater to improve local and regional 

water supply reliability for over two and half million California residents in the Orange County 

Groundwater Basin. 

Additionally, the study is a multi-agency collaborative effort between Mesa Water, the Orange 

County Water District, the City of Huntington Beach, and the City of Newport Beach, and aims 

to expand the water supply while also increasing the reliability of local water systems. 

The State of California has a history of leadership in environmental stewardship and in emerging 

technologies. The Local SiP aligns with both the state and national goals of achieving a cleaner, 

healthier, and more sustainable environment. I ask that the US Bureau of Reclamation give all 

due consideration to Mesa Water District's application for funds. 

Thank you for your time. 

Sincerely, 

/6~ 

DAVE MIN 

Senator, 37th District 

DKM.jb 
STATE CAPITOL 

P.O. BOX 942849 (~Ssrnthlv SACRAMENTO, CA 94249-0067 

(916) 319-2067 

FAX (916) 319-2167 Uifurnitt ~ tsXtt urP 

Y ~ O n 

SHARON QUIRK-LVA SI 

ASSEMBLYh1EMBER. SIXTY-SEVENTI I DISTRICT 

February 17, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: 

Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") -- Support for 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant Application by Mesa 

Water District to study regional bracldsh groundwater desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould, 

This letter is to express to you and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation our strong support for the 

WaterSMART grant application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking assistance for 

its Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") feasibility study. The 

Local SiP would explore the benefits of desalinating brackish groundwater to improve local and 

regional water supply reliability within the Orange County Groundwater Basin ("OC Basin"), 

which provides water for over 2.5 million people in North and Central Orange County. 

California is experiencing increasingly extreme weather conditions, with less predictable 

precipitation patterns, followed by longer and more frequent dry and hot periods. Climate change 

is reducing the reliability of the state's precipitation and snowpack. Due to the uncertainties of 

imported water supplies from Northern California and the Colorado River, local and regional 

water supply reliability for Orange County is more important now than ever. The Local SiP seeks 

to further diversify and improve local water supplies for added flexibility and regional reliability 

within the OC Basin, which is already a leader in potable water reuse and water use efficiency. 

The Local SiP would study a multi-agency collaboration -- between Mesa Water, the Orange 

County Water District, and the Cities of Huntington Beach and Newport Beach -- to secure a new 

source of water supply for the OC Basin that is: abundant, affordable, environmentally-sensitive, 

high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and resilient to climate change, drought, and other 

potential disruptions to water supplies. 

Governor Newsom and his Administration have provided clear signals -- through the state's 

document entitled "California's Water Supply Strategy" and in many other venues -- that the 

ongoing development of new water supplies, such as desalination, must be embraced. Because 

brackish groundwater desalination projects like the Local SiP could help insulate Orange 

County's economy and residents from the devastating impacts of prolonged and ongoing drought, 

we respectfully request a favorable review of Mesa Water's application. 
Sincerely, 

.Sly,Qui,k -sue. 

Sharon Quirk-Silva 

Assemblymember, 67th District 
D e s 

February 9, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") -- Support for 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant Application by Mesa Water 

District to study regional brackish groundwater desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould: 

CalDesal is pleased to convey to you and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation our strong support for the 

WaterSMART grant application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking assistance for its Local 

groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") feasibility study. The Local SiP would explore the 

benefits of desalinating brackish groundwater to improve local and regional water supply reliability within the 

Orange County Groundwater Basin ("OC Basin"), which provides water for over 2.5 million people in North 

and Central Orange County, including Mesa Water's service area. 

CalDesal is a statewide association comprised of water industry leaders, representing public and private sector 

entities as well as non-profit organizations, integrating the use of desalination to ensure a sustainable water 

future for communities throughout California. 

California is experiencing increasingly extreme weather conditions, with less predictable precipitation patterns, 

followed by longer and more frequent dry and hot periods. Climate change is reducing the reliability of the 

state's precipitation and snowpack. Due to the uncertainties of imported water supplies from Northern 

California and the Colorado River, local and regional water supply reliability for the OC Basin is more 

important now than ever. The Local SiP seeks to further diversify and improve local water supplies for added 

flexibility and regional reliability within the OC Basin, which is already a leader in potable water reuse and 

water use efficiency. 

The Local SiP would study a multi-agency collaboration -- between Mesa Water, the Orange County Water 

District, and the Cities of Huntington Beach and Newport Beach -- to secure a new source of water supply for 

the OC Basin that is: abundant, affordable, environmentally-sensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, 

and resilient to climate change, drought, and other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

Governor Newsom and his Administration have provided clear signals -- through the state's "California's 

Water Supply Strategy" and in many other venues -- that the ongoing development of new water supplies, such 

as desalination, must be embraced. Additionally, brackish groundwater desalination projects can help insulate a 

region's community and economy from the devastating impacts of prolonged and ongoing drought. 
I 

Ms. Jacklynn Gould 

February 9, 2023 

Page 2 

For these reasons and more, we respectfully request a favorable review of Mesa Water's Local SiP application. 

Please don't hesitate to contact me at le~nnf(d~caldesal.org or at (916) 216-1747 if you have any questions 

regarding CalDesal's support for this grant application. 

Sincerely, 

GLENN A. FARREL 

Executive Director, CalDesal 

cc: Paul Shoenberger, Mesa Water District 

Stacy Taylor, Mesa Water District 
DIRECTORS OFFICERS 

VALERIE AMEZCUA President 

DENIS R. BILODEAU, P.E. CATHY GREEN 

CATHY GREEN First Vice President 

NATALIE MEEKS DENIS BILODEAU 

DINA L. NGUYEN, ESQ. 

KELLY E. ROWE, C.F.G., C.H. 51110: 1733 Second Vice President 

STEPHEN R.SHELDON VAN TRAN, ISO. 

VAN TRAN, ESQ. 

BRUCE WHITAKER 

ROGER C. YOH, P.E. 

ORANGE COUNTY WATER DISTRICT 

OMANDI. CCIJI`JTY-13 UIROIJNDI•JA i L 1, AUTIMM I \' 

General Manager 

MICHAEL R. MARKUS, P.E., D.WRE 

February 13, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SIP") -- Support for 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant 

Application by Mesa Water District to study regional brackish groundwater 

desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould, 

This letter is to express the Orange County Water District's support for the 

WaterSMART grant application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking 

assistance for its feasibility study -- named the Local groundwater Supply 

Improvement Project ("Local SIP") -- to explore the benefits of desalinating brackish 

groundwater to improve local and regional water supply reliability within the Orange 

County Groundwater Basin, which provides water for over 2.5 million people in North 

and Central Orange County. 

Developed through a collaborative process involving Mesa Water, the City of Huntington 

Beach, the City of Newport Beach, and OCWD (which manages the Orange County 

Groundwater Basin), the Local SiP would study a multi-agency undertaking to secure --

for our current population, including disadvantaged residents and underserved 

communities, and future generations -- a new source of water supply that is: abundant, 

affordable, environmentally-sensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and 

resilient to climate change, drought, and other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

The Local SiP will evaluate treatment alternatives for a 5 to 8 million gallons per day 

(MGD) regional brackish groundwater desalter, proposed locations for production wells, 

needed conveyance, and cost estimates. The Local SiP will also review potential 

groundwater and environmental impacts. The Local SiP will provide Mesa Water and its 

partnering agencies with the framework for selecting a proposed project alternative to 

move into design and construction. 
Jacklynn Gould 

February 13, 2023 

Page 2 of 2 

Due to adaption strategies required to manage the impacts of climate change, and the 

uncertainties of imported water supplies from Northern California and the Colorado 

River, local and regional water supply reliability for the Orange County Groundwater 

Basin is more important now than ever. Already a leader in potable water reuse and 

water use efficiency, the Orange County Groundwater Basin seeks to further diversify 

and improve local water supplies for added flexibility and regional reliability. This, in 

turn, will benefit the City of Huntington Beach. 

We respectfully request favorable review for Mesa Water's application, as the Local SiP 

could alleviate current and future drought impacts to the Orange County Groundwater 

Basin. 

Sincerely, 

Michael R. Markus, P.E., D.WRE, BCEE, F.ASCE 

General Manager, Orange County Water District 
CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH 

Public Works Department 

Sean Crumby, PE 

Director of Public Works 

February 13, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") -- Support for 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant Application by Mesa 

Water District to study regional brackish groundwater desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould, 

This letter is to express the City of Huntington Beach's support for the WaterSMART grant 

application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking assistance for its feasibility study --

named the Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") -- to explore the 

benefits of desalinating brackish groundwater to improve local and regional water supply 

reliability within the Orange County Groundwater Basin, which provides water for over 2.5 million 

people in North and Central Orange County, including the citizens of Huntington Beach. 

Developed through a collaborative process involving the City of Huntington Beach, City of 

Newport Beach, Orange County Water District (which manages the Orange County Groundwater 

Basin), and Mesa Water, the Local SiP would study a multi-agency undertaking to secure -- for 

our current population, including disadvantaged residents and underserved communities, and 

future generations -- a new source of water supply that is: abundant, affordable, environmentallysensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and resilient to climate change, drought, and 

other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

The Local SiP will evaluate treatment alternatives for a 5 to 8 million gallons per day (MGD) 

regional brackish groundwater desalter, proposed locations for production wells, needed 

conveyance, and cost estimates. The Local SiP will also review potential groundwater and 

environmental impacts. The Local SiP will provide Mesa Water and its partnering agencies with 

the framework for selecting a proposed project alternative to move into design and construction. 

Due to adaption strategies required to manage the impacts of climate change, and the uncertainties 

of imported water supplies from Northern California and the Colorado River, local and regional 

water supply reliability for the Orange County Groundwater Basin is more important now than 

ever. Already a leader in potable water reuse and water use efficiency, the Orange County 

Groundwater Basin seeks to fiurther diversify and improve local water supplies for added flexibility 

and regional reliability. This, in turn, will benefit the City of Huntington Beach. 

2000 Main Street, California 92648 • Phone 714-536-5431 • www.liuntiiigtonbeachca.gov 
Page 2 

We 6spectfully igquest favorable review for Mesa Water's application, as the Local SiP could 

all late current aid Riture drought impacts to the Orange County Groundwater Basin. 

of Public Works-Utilities, City of Huntington Beach 
DONALD P. WAGNER ANDREW DO 

jPAtJGcrij II,,I, B'::-PD ~J'=FV1I1;,P7 

-TALL OF AD%11hJ_I=c; O;J H3F-4 

di}Q A '_I:'IC rEl JER D" VE NTH F L OOR '-;I'A A I I 

February 15, 2023 

Jacklynn Gould, Regional Director 

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation 

Lower Colorado Basin 

P.O. Box 61470 

Boulder City, NV 89006-1470 

RE: Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") -- Support for 

WaterSMART: Water Recycling and Desalination Planning Grant Application by 

Mesa Water District to study regional brackish groundwater desalination 

Dear Ms. Gould, 

This letter is to express to you and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation our strong support for the 

WaterSMART grant application by Mesa Water District (Mesa Water®), seeking assistance 

for its Local groundwater Supply Improvement Project ("Local SiP") feasibility study. 

The Local SiP would explore the benefits of desalinating brackish groundwater to improve 

local and regional water supply reliability within the Orange County Groundwater Basin ("OC 

Basin"), which provides water for over 2.5 million people in North and Central Orange County. 

California is experiencing increasingly extreme weather conditions, with less predictable 

precipitation patterns, followed by longer and more frequent dry and hot periods. Climate 

change is reducing the reliability of the state's precipitation and snowpack. Due to the 

uncertainties of imported water supplies from Northern California and the Colorado River, 

local and regional water supply reliability for Orange County is more important now than ever. 

The Local SiP seeks to further diversify and improve local water supplies for added flexibility 

and regional reliability within the OC Basin, which is already a leader in potable water reuse 

and water use efficiency. 

The Local SiP would study a multi-agency collaboration -- between Mesa Water, the Orange 

County Water District, and the Cities of Huntington Beach and Newport Beach -- to secure a 

new source of water supply for the OC Basin that is: ab undant, affordable, environmentallysensitive, high-quality, local, reliable, sustainable, and resilient to climate change, drought, 

and other potential disruptions to water supplies. 

Local, regional, state and federal governments have acknowledged that water supply 

sustainability includes desalination as an important water resilience strategy. Because 

desalination projects could help insulate Orange County's economy and residents from the 

devastating impacts of prolonged and ongoing drought, we respectfully request a favorable 

revieyv-o4.1&sa Water's Local SiP application. 

3 

Sinc rely, 

Donald P. Wagn r Andrew Do 

Chairman, Board a Supervisors Vice Chairman, Board of Supervisors 

Supervisor. Third"District Supervisor. First District