Across California, wetlands act as a natural cleaning system before water reaches the tap. These shallow areas of water that cover or saturate soil — often called marshes, swamps or bogs — help clean water naturally. They trap sediments, balance nutrients and absorb pollutants before the water flows into reservoirs, rivers, groundwater and other sources we rely on. By starting the cleaning process early, wetlands play a vital role in protecting our water and helping deliver high‑quality tap water.
Let’s go downstream to learn more about the role of wetlands for Your SoCal Tap Water member agencies.
Irvine Ranch Water District(IRWD) manages the San Joaquin Marsh, a 300-acre freshwater wetland in Orange County. The marsh is the backbone of the water treatment system at IRWD, naturally cleaning rainwater to shield the Upper Newport Bay. Every day the marsh is open to the public for free from sunrise to sunset, located at 5 Riparian View, Irvine.
Known for being the largest constructed wetland on the West Coast, the Prado Constructed Wetlands remove approximately 175 tons of nitrate and other pollutants every year that are found in the Santa Ana River. This wetland is located near the Prado Dam and is managed by the Orange County Water District (OCWD) to significantly refine the water quality in the river.
San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District(SBVMWD) is taking essential steps toward wetland restoration to enhance the Santa Ana River. Three projects are in the making, including Hidden Valley, Lower Hole and Anza Creeks. Collectively, these projects will develop new wetlands and improve existing ones to enhance water quality and protect native species.
Mill Creek Wetlands Project
The Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA) supported the Mill Creek Wetlands project by awarding funds from the Prop 84 One Water One Watershed grant. This project focused on several enhancements, including:
- Improving water quality
- Preserving and enhancing the environment
- Providing economically effective water solutions
- Maintaining quality of life
It’s a regional natural treatment facility adjacently located to the Cucamonga Channel.
Wetlands are central to our tap water. Thanks to their natural process, tap water is clean and fresh for years to come.
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