Water Conservation

Middle Ranch Reservoir

The Middle Ranch Reservoir, also known as Thompson’s Reservoir, is the main gauge for assessing the fresh water supply conditions for Santa Catalina Island.

The measured water level triggers the different stages of water conservation and rationing as laid out in the Schedule 14.1 tariffs.  For more information regarding water on Catalina visit: www.sce.com/catalina.

If you have any general questions, a dedicated Catalina customer service representative can assist you at 1-800-367-8851 (Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

Collaborations and Resources

Catalina Island Water System Drought Contingency Plan (PDF)

Middle Ranch Reservoir Capacity (approximate) and tariff stage levels:

• 1053 Acre Feet  Approximate total Capacity
• 600 Acre Feet    Stage 1 Mandatory Water Conservation
• 300 Acre Feet    Stage 2 Mandatory Water Rationing - 25% use reduction compared to baseline year
• 200 Acre Feet    Stage 3 50% use reduction compared to baseline year 
• 50 Acre Feet      Stage 4 75% use reduction compared to baseline year

**1 acre foot = 325,851 gallons

News and Updates

• Stage I Mandatory Water Conservation ends, 1/17/2023.
• SCE implements Stage I Mandatory Water Conservation, 7/05/2022.
• SCE awarded funding for $10,000,000 for Water Desalination Grants, 12/6/19.
• SCE recommended funding for $10,000,000 from Proposition 1 Water Desalination Grant Program Continuous Application Process (CAP3), 10/18/19.
• SCE recommended funding for the second desalination plant from the Department of Water Resources for $3,610,575, 5/1/19. SCE awarded funding from the Proposition 1 Water Desalination Grant Program, 6/18/19.

Middle Ranch Reservoir Level