With build-out at around 50 percent of the Otay Water District’s 129-square-mile service area, officials are optimistic that future water demands of residential, business and open public space will be met.

The Otay District, the water provider for the rapidly growing east Chula Vista neighborhoods of EastLake and Otay Ranch, has averaged an annual increase of 2,100 new water users each year for several years. In addition to the rapidly growing Chula Vista landscape, the district serves the entire South County east of Interstate 805.

Although the residential areas have been experiencing phenomenal growth, the district has taken a proactive approach, says German Alvarez, assistant general manager for administration and growth. As part of the San Diego County Water Authority, Alvarez says, Otay has “a system that is designed to accommodate growth. In a nutshell, we are trying to be ready for growth by putting in a number of programs.”

As the second largest water district in the county, Otay has had an active conservation program that since 1990 has resulted in a savings of enough water to serve 9,400 homes a year.

The conservation program combines education, financial incentives and new technologies with long-term planning. Homeowners are rewarded with rebates for installing low-flush toilets, efficient dishwashers and washing machines, water-restricting shower heads and faucets, and irrigation systems that save water.

Another recently approved pilot program will offer financial incentives for homeowners who convert their landscaping to low water-use selections. A water garden planted with drought resistant plants is open to the public at Cuyamaca College. The garden, water conservation suggestions and general water district information may be viewed at www.otaywater.gov.

Almost immediately, the district will be increasing its use of reclaimed water, says Manny Magaña, assistant general manager for engineering. The board recently approved a $36 million, 20-year agreement with the city of San Diego for recycled water. It is used already on golf courses and freeway landscaped areas, but soon will see expanded use in irrigation where possible.

South County can expect more innovative strategies planned by the Otay District for future conservation. Among other water savers to be implemented is a weather-based control system that measures ground moisture to determine how much landscaping water is needed, rather than relying on preset timings. Also on the horizon: a dual-flush toilet that requires only a partial flush.

— Sandy Pasqua