Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility Decommissioned After More Than Half a Century by Padre Dam Municipal Water District Apr 9, 2026 Member Submitted News SANTEE — The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility was decommissioned on April 8, 2026, following more than 50 years of service in East San Diego County. As a pioneer in water reuse, the facility addressed critical water supply challenges, improved pollution control, and enhanced recreational opportunities at Santee Lakes, serving as a model for sustainable water management both locally and globally. It exemplified the principle that water is too precious to be used just once. Ray Stoyer, former General Manager of the Santee County Water District, paved the way for this award-winning facility and was a true trailblazer in advancing water reuse. The facility was relocated to its current site just north of Santee Lakes in 1967, laying the foundation for future growth. In 1997, it was renovated to expand its capacity, allowing it to produce up to two million gallons of recycled water per day to support Santee Lakes and other non-potable uses throughout the community. “The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility has been a cornerstone of water sustainability in East County for more than half a century,” said Kyle Swanson, General Manager and CEO of Padre Dam Municipal Water District. “Its legacy of innovation has set the standard for responsible water reuse. While we honor this incredible facility, we are excited to continue its pioneering spirit with the East County Advanced Water Purification (AWP) Program, providing reliable potable water for our community for generations to come.” Rob Northcote, Operations Manager for the East County AWP Program, who began his career at the facility in 1997, added, “The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility has always been more than a workplace. I’ve been honored to be part of a facility distinguished by its history, innovation, and depth of expertise. It’s incredibly rewarding to see its legacy continue, as the dedication of those who worked here will help guide the East County AWP Program into the future.” The East County AWP Program will create a local, sustainable, and drought-proof drinking water supply using state-of-the-art technology to purify recycled water. It will treat up to 16 million gallons of wastewater per day, producing roughly 11.5 million gallons of purified potable water daily- enough to supply up to 30 percent of the region’s drinking water. Once operational, it will be one of California’s first surface water augmentation programs- bridging the region’s legacy to a leading-edge future. Padre Dam provides water, sewer, recycled water, and recreation services to more than 100,000 residents in East San Diego County including Santee, El Cajon, Lakeside, Flinn Springs, Harbison Canyon, Blossom Valley, Alpine, Dehesa, and Crest. The District is a public agency with policies and procedures directed by an elected five-member Board of Directors. Please visit www.padredam.org for more information or find us on Facebook, X, and Instagram. ###
