Criticality And Risk Analysis Helps Mojave Water Agency Optimize Maintenance Activities And Realize Cost Savings

The Mojave Water Agency (MWA) is responsible for ensuring a stable and sustainable water supply for the High Desert region in San Bernardino County. Its projects cover a service area of approximately 4,900 square miles and include facilities for delivering and storing water from the State Water Project. These facilities, such as the Morongo Basin Pipeline, the Mojave River Pipeline, the Oro Grande Wash Pipeline, and the recharge basins, help meet the region's water needs.

The MWA was established in 1960 because of growing concern about groundwater overdraft, where more groundwater is used each year than is replaced by nature through rain and snowmelt. The MWA entered into an agreement with the California Department of Water Resources, making them one of 29 contractors able to import water from the California Aqueduct when necessary. Today, the MWA is entitled to almost 90,000 acre-feet of water annually, ensuring the region can recharge groundwater supplies as needed. Local water companies and well owners can use this groundwater for domestic, recreational, agricultural, and industrial purposes.

Amid a decrease in water supply and reliability, the MWA, like many water agencies, has seen a rise in costs and operational challenges related to regional expansion, increased regulatory requirements, climate change, and aging infrastructures. Despite these challenges, the MWA remains committed to managing groundwater basins sustainably, importing water responsibly, and proactively addressing risks using sound scientific practices.