This paper describes the results of tracer studies conducted for the Palmdale Water District, Palmdale, California. The studies are unique in overcoming two problems through the use of low-cost, high-tech solutions. The first problem was that of the selection of a suitable tracer for the water treatment plant, to be used while water was being produced and consumed. The second problem was that of defining a suitable technology for the detection of the tracer used. This was to provide a real time track of the movement of the tracer through the treatment plant. Both problems were solved using a combination of advanced technology, and the use of table salt substitute as a tracer. Previous tracer studies revealed that four potentially suitable tracers, meeting some or all of these criteria, had been commonly identified: rhodamine WT; sodium chloride; inorganic fluoride; lithium chloride.