What We Do
The mission of the Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) is to provide reliable, high-quality supplies from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan) and other sources to meet present and future needs, at an equitable and economical cost, and to promote water use efficiency for all of Orange County.
Our team of highly-skilled professionals, supported by award-winning programs and initiatives, drives our success and reflects the dedication of our staff and leadership to the agency’s essential functions. MWDOC takes pride in fostering strong collaboration with our 27 member agencies and key partners to advance our strategic goals. This teamwork underscores our commitment to safeguarding Orange County’s most vital resource—water.
85+ Billion
Gallons of Local Water Produced Annually
243+ Million
Gallons of Avoided Water Loss Through Leak Detection
19+ Billion
Gallons of Water Saved Annually Through Water-Saving Programs
Commitment to Leadership
A seven-member Board of Directors governs MWDOC, each elected by the public to represent a specific section of Orange County. Additionally, MWDOC appoints four representatives to advocate for Orange County’s water-related interests on the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan) Board.
MWDOC is the third largest member agency at Metropolitan, and Metropolitan is the largest water provider in the nation. MWDOC holds key leadership positions on the Board, overseeing critical areas such as finances, policy development, strategy, and implementation.
MWDOC Departments
And Functions
MWDOC is dedicated to ensuring a reliable, efficient, and sustainable water supply through forward-thinking planning, strategic advocacy, and community engagement. Our comprehensive programs empower local water agencies, businesses, and residents to navigate the complexities of water management with innovative solutions.
From infrastructure development and emergency preparedness to education, conservation, and policy leadership, MWDOC plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Orange County’s water resources. Explore our key initiatives and discover how we are working to protect and sustain this essential resource for generations to come.
Planning & Resource Development
MWDOC supports the planning, design, and implementation of local water projects, enhancing Orange County’s water reliability. By providing technical expertise, funding assistance, and regulatory guidance, MWDOC helps local water providers develop recycled water programs, groundwater recharge projects, and conservation initiatives for a sustainable water future.
WEROC
The Water Emergency Response Organization of Orange County (WEROC), administered by MWDOC, ensures emergency readiness for Orange County water and wastewater agencies. Through planning, training, and coordination, WEROC prepares for disasters like earthquakes and wildfires, facilitates resource sharing, and supports rapid response to protect vital water services and public safety.
Metropolitan & Water Issues
MWDOC ensures Orange County’s needs are represented in the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s regional policies, supply planning, and infrastructure projects. By advocating for local priorities and collaborating with Orange County water providers, MWDOC helps shape decisions that balance regional goals with the county’s unique challenges and needs.
Communications
MWDOC informs and educates Orange County residents and businesses on water supply issues, conservation, and policies through community partnerships, special events, and other outreach efforts. From educational forums, briefing papers, and digital campaigns to public workshops and tours, MWDOC engages all age groups, promoting water awareness and informed action for a sustainable water future.
K-20 Water Education Initiatives
Water education is vital for a sustainable future in Orange County. It promotes water use efficiency, public health, and environmental stewardship and illuminates high-quality, meaningful careers. Beyond goodwill, it’s a wise investment, equipping future generations to address local and global water challenges. MWDOC’s education programs foster environmental literacy and responsible water use, building a community dedicated to protecting our essential water resources.
Water Use Efficiency
MWDOC promotes water use efficiency through rebate programs and expert assistance, encouraging water-efficient behaviors and technologies like high-efficiency appliances, smart irrigation, and drought-tolerant landscaping. By partnering with local agencies to offer water-saving resources and incentives, MWDOC helps residents and businesses adopt sustainable practices, reduce water waste, and protect Orange County’s water resources for the future.
Water Loss Control or Leak Detection
MWDOC helps local water agencies throughout Orange County minimize water waste by analyzing system inefficiencies and introducing advanced leak detection strategies. Using tools like acoustic sensors and water-smart monitoring, MWDOC identifies, and addresses leaks early, preventing costly water loss, conserving resources, and enhancing Orange County’s long-term water reliability.
Government Affairs
MWDOC advocates for Orange County’s water needs at local, state, and federal levels, ensuring policies support reliability, quality, and sustainability. By monitoring legislation and engaging with lawmakers, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders, MWDOC shapes decisions on critical issues like supply reliability, infrastructure funding, and drought management. Through collaboration with member agencies, MWDOC amplifies Orange County’s voice, securing resources to address present and future water challenges.
Finance & Transparency
MWDOC’s budgeting, accounting, IT systems, and rebate programs ensure efficient, secure, reliable, and fiscally responsible operations. MWDOC supports Orange County’s water needs and promotes sustainable financial practices by maintaining transparency, enhancing cybersecurity, and streamlining rebate facilitation.
Administrative Services
MWDOC’s Administrative Services ensure efficient agency operations by managing budgeting, financial planning, and human resources. They also oversee employee recruitment and training and provide publicly accessible, factual information to ensure sound and just governance. These foundational support services enable MWDOC to focus on delivering reliable and sustainable water solutions for Orange County.



