Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) is turning heads with its strategic use of GIS technology to guide trenchless rehabilitation projects—showing the kind of forward-thinking infrastructure management that ITpipes champions.
Facing the challenges of aging wastewater infrastructure in South Orange County, SMWD adopted a comprehensive GIS-driven approach to identify, prioritize, and execute trenchless rehab on nearly 75 miles of sewer mains. This data-centric strategy has allowed the district to pinpoint problem areas, streamline contractor coordination, and deliver projects with minimal community disruption.
One of the standout features of SMWD’s approach is its “smart” project selection process. Instead of simply tackling the worst lines, they analyze inspection data, operational history, and field conditions to identify where trenchless methods will bring the most long-term value. By layering this information into their GIS, they’ve created a living, dynamic model that informs every decision—from inspection through rehab.
This approach aligns closely with the values we promote at ITpipes. By integrating inspection data with platforms like Esri and leveraging tools like ITpipes AIC (Assisted Inspection Coding), utilities can move from reactive to proactive asset management. Our tools empower teams like SMWD’s to turn raw data into actionable insights—faster, more accurately, and with greater consistency.
At ITpipes, we’ve seen the power of integrating GIS with inspection workflows first-hand. Clients using our Mobile and Web platforms regularly cut down manual effort, improve QA/QC, and extend the lifespan of their assets through smarter maintenance strategies.
Santa Margarita Water District’s story is a great example of how innovative thinking—backed by the right tech—can deliver real, measurable results. And it’s exactly the kind of success we love supporting.
Read this story on Trenchless Technology