The Sweetwater River Watershed expands for approximately 230 square miles from the Cuyamaca Mountains to the San Diego Bay. Watershed stewardship is critical to protecting the quality of water captured, stored, and treated for drinking water purposes. Both Sweetwater and Loveland reservoirs are located on the Sweetwater River, and the groundwater we use in the lower basin is also linked to the watershed. The Authority tracks watershed development and coordinates with community groups and local agencies to monitor and promote the health of the watershed. In this, fees for new development within a portion of the middle watershed are collected to offset costs associated with the Sweetwater Reservoir Urban Runoff Diversion System, facilities that are in place to help protect the quality of water held in the Sweetwater Reservoir.