Las Flores, CA (November 5, 2008) – On Sunday, October 19, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) adjusted its “blend” of water supplies serving Southern California, including Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD). The adjustment removed all water from Northern California, and increased amounts from the Colorado River. Ongoing drought conditions and anticipated court-ordered reductions in allocations from Northern California required that the precautionary adjustment be made.

The change in blend does not affect the amount of water SMWD receives, but customers may notice that their water is harder. This is because water from the Colorado River contains slightly more Total Dissolved Solids, which may appear as spots on glassware, and may require more soap for bathing and washing. Otherwise, the water is as safe, and has the same taste, as water SMWD usually delivers to its customers.

Previously, water supplied to SMWD from MWD maintained a blend of approximately 20 percent Northern California water and to 80 percent Colorado River.

About Santa Margarita Water District
SMWD is Orange County’s second-largest water district, serving more than 155,000 residents and businesses in Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto de Caza, Las Flores and inland southern Orange County, including the communities of Ladera Ranch and Talega.

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