The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District

The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District was formed on June 6, 1978, under the enabling legislation found in West’s California Water Code, Appendix Chapters 118-1 to 118-901. Functions include:

• Augment the water supply through integrated management of ground and surface water
• Promote water conservation and the efficient use of water
• Advance water reuse and reclamation of storm and wastewater
• Foster the scenic values, environmental qualities, native vegetation, fish and wildlife, and recreation on the Monterey Peninsula and in the Carmel River Basin

The Water Management District serves 114,000 people within the cities of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Del Rey Oaks, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Sand City, Monterey Peninsula Airport District and portions of unincorporated Monterey County including Pebble Beach, Carmel Highlands, Carmel Valley, Monterra Ranch, Laguna Seca, Hidden Hills, and Pasadera. Our sources of revenue include but are not limited to; property tax, user fees, water capacity charges, investments, grants, permit fees and project reimbursements.

2026 Strategic Goals and Objectives Adopted March 16, 2026

Highest Priority Goals
1. Seek Modification of Cease and Desist Order
2. Implement Public Ownership of Monterey Water System as Directed by the Voters
3. Collaborate on Protecting Assets in the Seaside Groundwater Basin

Mid-Level Goals
4. Implement State Policies Related to “Conservation as a California Way of Life”
5. Optimize ASR (Aquifer Storage & Recovery)
6. Update & Prioritize District Rules & Regulations
7. Advance Los Padres Dam Alternatives

Ongoing Goals
8. Protect, Enhance, and Maintain District’s Financial Health
9. Provide Ratepayer Advocacy