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Strategy 2C

Create an integrated and resilient water system

Water management in LA County today reflects a historically siloed view that failed to recognize the interconnectedness of all water, including groundwater, surface water, rainwater, and wastewater. This approach has led to a complex, disjointed system that is not well-suited to adapting to the needs of a rapidly growing region and changing climate. Building on the successful passage of the Safe Clean Water Program (Measure W), which promises to support an integrated and holistic approach to stormwater management, the region must invest in a 21st-century water system that prioritizes multi-benefit management strategies that restore and mimic natural processes and cycles.

Targets
Countywide

Baseline
41% of LA County's water supply came from local sources in 2017. (Metropolitan Water District)

2025
Source 50% of water locally

2035
Source 65% of water locally

2045
Source 80% of water locally

2025
Compliance with Clean Water Act permit requirements to achieve water quality standards

2035
Compliance with Clean Water Act permit requirements to achieve water quality standards

2045
Compliance with Clean Water Act permit requirements to achieve water quality standards

Action 34

Invest in multi-benefit water management solutions that diversify and increase reliability of the water supply, reduce dependency on imported water, prioritize solutions that mimic natural systems, and maximize benefits to Native and disadvantaged communities.

Action 35

Develop a local water supply plan.

Action 36

Evaluate and implement mechanisms, such as a stream protection ordinance, for the protection, preservation, and restoration of natural buffers to waterbodies, such as floodplains, streams, and wetlands.

Action 37

Support efforts to maximize sustainable yield from local groundwater basins.

Action 38

Support efforts to clean up contaminated aquifers.

Action 39

Develop incentives for residential and commercial/small business water conservation and stormwater retrofits, particularly those that use a multi-benefit, watershed approach.

Action 40

Reduce barriers and increase accessibility to alternative water sources (rainwater, greywater, stormwater, and recycled water), including incentives for residential and commercial/small business greywater systems and streamlining permitting pathways.

Action 41

Advocate for a collaborative approach to partnering with the region's various groundwater managers to sustainably manage regional groundwater basins.

Action 42

Develop a plan to ensure effective, well-maintained flood risk mitigation infrastructure to communities and include a mechanism to facilitate reporting of incidents by residents/municipalities to help identify and address any chronic local flooding issues.

Explore actions by topic tag

Air Quality,

Climate,

Economy & Workforce,

Energy,

Equity,

Funding & Financing,

Housing,

Land Use,

Landscapes & Ecosystems,

Public Health,

Resilience,

Transportation,

Waste & Resource Management,

Water

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Explore more goals

Goal 1

Resilient and healthy community environments where residents thrive in place

Goal 2

Buildings and infrastructure that support human health and resilience

Goal 3

Equitable and sustainable land use and development without displacement

Goal 4

A prosperous LA County that provides opportunities for all residents and businesses and supports the transition to a green economy

Goal 5

Thriving ecosystems, habitats, and biodiversity

Goal 6

Accessible parks, beaches, recreational waters, public lands, and public spaces that create opportunities for respite, recreation, ecological discovery, and cultural activities

Goal 7

A fossil fuel-free LA County

Goal 8

A convenient, safe, clean, and affordable transportation system that enhances mobility and quality of life while reducing car dependency

Goal 9

Sustainable production and consumption of resources

Goal 10

A sustainable and just food system that enhances access to affordable, local, and healthy food

Goal 11

Inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance that encourages participation in sustainability efforts, especially by disempowered communities

Goal 12

A commitment to realize OurCounty sustainability goals through creative, equitable, and coordinated funding and partnerships
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