Chula Vista, CA – On June 26, 2025, the United States Bureau of Reclamation awarded Sweetwater Authority a $1,532,500 million grant for the Sweetwater Reservoir Aeration/Destratification System. The funding was made available by the Bureau of Reclamation's WaterSMART Drought Response Program.
The Drought Response Program assists water agencies to develop and update comprehensive drought plans and implement projects that will build long-term resiliency to drought.
"We're grateful for the grant support that makes this vital infrastructure project possible," said Chair Manny Delgado. "This project is a smart, forward-looking investment that strengthens our region's water supply reliability for the 200,000 residents we serve."
The proposed aeration and destratification system in Sweetwater Reservoir will enhance water quality and increase the yield of local water resources. This system will increase dissolved oxygen levels in the reservoir by introducing air from land-based compressors through a submerged diffuser line. Aeration will provide uniform quality throughout the reservoir’s water column, decreasing the need for blending with imported water sources which reduces costs for the agency and its rate payers.
The official grant announcement can be found on the Bureau of Reclamation’s website.
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Sweetwater Authority is a public water agency providing safe, reliable water to National City, Chula Vista and Bonita.