Mesa Water is the only Orange County water provider meeting water demand exclusively from local groundwater supplies. This is made possibly by our Mesa Water Reliability Facility (MWRF), which opened in 2013.

The MWRF (pronounced ā€œMurphā€) features two deep-water wells and a one-million gallon reservoir. The wells pump raw water from approximately 1,000 feet underground. The water is soft and meets all water quality standards, but contains an amber color. A nanofiltration technology treatment process removes the organic color while sand separators and other filters remove inorganic materials. Chloramines disinfect the water before leaving the facility. The water then moves into the onsite reservoir before being pumped into the Mesa Water distribution system. For every gallon of water moved through the MWRF, 98 percent is delivered as drinking water to Mesa Water customers.

Visits/Tours

Facility tours are occasionally provided by invitation ā€“ these tours are announced on our Events page.

Beginning in fall 2023, the Mesa Water Education Center will allow Mesa Water staff to host regular educational programs and tours at the MWRF, highlighting our commitment to environmental stewardship, resource sustainability and wise water use. Tours will include field trips for local elementary schools. These include visits to the following areas.Ā 

The Gardens

Several gardens on site promote water conservation and public awareness of drought-tolerant plants and landscaping. The gardens are grouped by water needs. The garden begins on the roof of the buildings, with a water capture system. Water runs from the roof through downspouts and into the landscape. On the ground, the gardens are watered through a drip irrigation system managed by a smart timer. Mulch covers the areas where water retention is needed in the soil.

Ancient Redwoods

The mini redwood forest represents the ancient redwood roots found deep in the lower groundwater basin. These roots contribute to the amber color of groundwater. Redwoods are thirsty; they require the most water in the garden. An automated mist and fogger system keep them hydrated.

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Riparian Area

The riparian area is home to sycamores and oaks, trees that gather in the low points where water gathers on a property. Riparian roots need to get moist but can go for periods of time without water. The riparian garden also contains plants typical of a Coastal Sage Scrub habitat, native to Southern California.

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Coastal Grassland

Grasses featured in the grassland garden are native to the United States and are a disappearing species. They require even less water than the riparian area.

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Succulents

Mesa Waterā€™s succulent garden has an attractive variety of succulents. They are colorful due to their leaves and sometimes flower. This garden requires very little water.