Environmental stewardship and resource management

Environmental stewardship is an ongoing balance of complex needs. The Orange County Water District manages the Orange County Groundwater Basin and groundwater recharge facilities along the Santa Ana River. In carrying out this mission, OCWD balances groundwater replenishment, flood protection, water quality, habitat management, invasive species control, public access, energy efficiency, and operational reliability.

OCWD’s environmental programs are supported by a dedicated Natural Resources Department staffed by environmental professionals including four full-time biologists who help integrate environmental stewardship into District planning, operations, and maintenance activities.

Environmental Preservation and Open Space

OCWD has dedicated more than 1,100 acres of land for environmental preservation and invested millions of dollars in conservation and habitat projects. More than 200 acres of District lands have also been dedicated for public trails and recreation, helping preserve open space and public access opportunities throughout Orange County.

Prado Constructed Wetlands

OCWD designed, constructed, and operates the Prado Constructed Wetlands, a project that improves water quality while providing wildlife habitat. The wetlands consist of 45 shallow ponds that naturally reduce nitrate concentrations in Santa Ana River water before it is recharged into the Orange County Groundwater Basin. The wetlands also provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including several protected species such as the least Bell’s vireo, whose recovery from near extinction has been aided by OCWD’s habitat restoration efforts.

Habitat Management and Restoration

OCWD manages District-owned lands through invasive species removal, native vegetation restoration, biological monitoring, and ongoing land management. Vegetation management is conducted primarily through mechanical methods, with selective herbicide use in non-water areas when necessary for specific maintenance activities. These efforts help maintain habitat while supporting the long-term operation of groundwater recharge facilities and other critical infrastructure.

Bird Island

OCWD designed and constructed Bird Island within Burris Basin in Anaheim to provide protected nesting habitat for a variety of bird species. Surrounded by water, the island helps reduce access by land-based predators and supports successful nesting and breeding activity. OCWD staff and biologists monitor nesting activity and bird populations throughout the breeding season.

Natural Pest Management

OCWD uses natural pest management strategies that support environmental stewardship and groundwater protection. Along portions of the Santa Ana River, the District has installed hundreds of nesting boxes for insect-eating birds that help naturally control nuisance insects.

Environmental Compliance

OCWD conducts its operations in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local environmental requirements. Environmental review, biological monitoring, habitat management, and restoration activities are incorporated into District projects and operations as appropriate.

Environmental Education

OCWD’s award-winning Children’s Water Education Festival helps build awareness of water resources and environmental stewardship among future generations. More than 163,000 Orange County students have participated in the program since its inception. The District also conducts tours, presentations, and community outreach programs that educate thousands of residents, students, elected officials, and stakeholders each year about Orange County’s water supplies, groundwater management, and water reuse programs.