Regional Partnership Strengthens Reliability Across Riverside County by Western Water Jul 20, 2026 Member Submitted News RIVERSIDE — This week, Western Municipal Water District’s (Western Water) Board of Directors approved regional water supply agreements with the City of Corona, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD), and Rancho California Water District (Rancho Water), marking another significant step toward a more collaborative approach to managing Southern California’s water future. “Today’s action represents another important milestone in Western Water’s commitment to long-term water reliability,” said Laura Roughton, Western Water Board President. “But this success belongs to all the agencies involved. Neighboring water agencies can accomplish more by working together than any one agency could on its own. By expanding access to another diversified water supply, we’re creating lasting value not just for one agency, but for the communities we collectively serve.” Earlier this year, Western Water entered into a long-term agreement with the San Diego County Water Authority, securing access for up to 20,000 acre-feet of water annually through one of the most cost-effective water supply opportunities available today. Recognizing the value of a regional approach, Western Water, the City of Corona, EVMWD, and Rancho Water worked together to expand access to a new long-term water supply for the region. Together, the agencies will receive portions of the 20,000 acre-feet of water available each year, enough to serve approximately 60,000 Southern California households annually. Under the agreements, Western Water will receive the water from the San Diego County Water Authority and allocate portions of the annual supply to each participating agency using existing regional infrastructure. By building on infrastructure already in place, the agencies avoided the need for new facilities while maximizing the value of existing investments. The long-term agreements are projected to generate nearly $100 million in regional savings through 2047, while expanding access to dependable water supplies and helping responsibly manage long-term water costs for the customers and communities each agency serves. Beyond the immediate benefits, the agreements establish a regional framework for future water supply opportunities. By planning together today, the participating agencies are strengthening drought resilience, diversifying their water portfolios, and creating greater flexibility to respond to California’s evolving water landscape. “This is what forward-thinking leadership looks like,” said Tom Moody, Utilities Director for the City of Corona. “When agencies look beyond their own boundaries and focus on what’s best for the region, everyone benefits. I look forward to building on this partnership as we continue creating new opportunities together.” “Planning for the future means looking beyond our own boundaries,” said Andy Morris, Board President at EVMWD. “By working together, we’re strengthening water reliability, diversifying our water portfolio and making smart investments that will benefit our communities for decades.” “Strong partnerships with neighboring water agencies are key to making the most of existing resources while creating new opportunities to strengthen water reliability for our customers,” said Jack Hoagland, Board Member at Rancho Water. “This agreement, combined with the expanded groundwater storage capacity at Valle de Los Caballos, gives Rancho Water greater flexibility to store water today and prepare for the needs of tomorrow.” To learn more about how each agency is building water resiliency for their communities, visit their websites at WesternWaterCA.gov, CoronaCA.gov, EVMWD.com, and RanchoWater.com.
