Our History
The District derives its name from Rancho Rincon del Diablo. In 1843, Juan Bautista Alvarado received the Rancho as a land grant after the area fell from auspice of the Mission San Diego de Alcala. The land, no longer part of the Mission system was considered unblessed, hence the Spanish translation, “the devil’s corner,” or “the devil’s lurking place.” This original tract of land contained 12,653 acres.
In 1885, a syndicate of businessmen purchased the Rancho and subdivided it into small farm tracts and the City of Escondido. During this period, agricultural operations included row crops, tree crops, and cattle. One year later, an irrigation district was formed and bonds were sold to develop a water supply system from the local San Luis Rey River. A dam was constructed at Lake Wohlford and by 1905 the Escondido Mutual Water Company, a private entity, acquired the irrigation district facilities. The company continued to improve the diversion canal and distribution system to supply its stockholders with irrigation and domestic water.
Following World War II, the Escondido Valley experienced a period of rapid growth. It came at a time of continuing drought which heightened the need for additional water to support the growing residential community. Additionally, local citizens realized the need to import water to serve land on the outskirts of the valley where there was not a adequate water supply. Colorado River water (imported by public agencies, the San Diego County Water Authority and its supplier, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California) was the best option. Because the Escondido Mutual Water Company was a private company, it was prohibited by law to receive water supplies from a public supplier. Born from the need to import water, was the formation of a public agency. On February 19, 1954 the Rincon del Diablo Municipal Water District was organized and incorporated under the provisions of the Municipal Water Act of 1911 to fulfill this need.
Our Mission Statement
We provide safe and reliable water services with exceptional value and responsiveness, guided by our steadfast commitment to protecting resources for our community.
Our Values
- Resource Stewardship – The responsible use and protection of environmental, financial, and technological resources, focusing on efficiency, protecting quality, and leveraging advanced systems to promote sustainability, resilience, and community partnerships.
- Integrity – Acting with accountability, transparency, and respect to build trust with customers, employees, and the community. This includes providing accurate information and ensuring fairness at every level and with every interaction.
- Preparedness – The ability to act quickly and effectively during crises to minimize service disruptions and maintain reliability. It reflects the organization’s readiness and commitment to protecting the community.
- Continuous Improvement – Constantly enhancing systems, processes, and services to meet current and future needs. It includes engaging employees, improving culture, and innovation to support first-class operations.
- Teamwork and Collaboration – Working together within the organization and with external partners through open communication, shared goals, and co-creation to achieve better results.
Our Vision
To be a water district that improves life in our community with dependable service, creative solutions, and a commitment to sustainability for the future.