The San Diego County Water Authority is celebrating National Engineers Week, February 22-28, by highlighting the agency’s engineers and the important work they do. Since the Water Authority’s formation in 1944, engineers have played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of the agency and its commitment to delivering safe, reliable water supplies to San Diego County.
From designing and constructing regional water facilities to managing energy projects, our engineers are critical in keeping the water flowing for our region.
Peter Milligan, Engineer P.E.
Peter Milligan (right) is an Engineer P.E., in the Engineering Department at the San Diego County Water Authority.
“The most rewarding aspect of my job is using engineering to maintain and improve the San Diego region’s water supply infrastructure,” said Peter Milligan, engineer P.E., at the Water Authority.
Sami Sweis, Engineer P.E.
Sami Sweis is an Engineer P.E. in the Water Resources Department at the Water Authority.
Engineer P.E., Sami Sweis also shares the most rewarding part of his job working in the water industry.
“Working together as a team to accomplish our goals, typically a capital improvement project, and seeing the work we do benefit the San Diego region.”
Karla Sanchez, Senior Engineering Technician
Karla Sanchez is a Senior Engineering Technician in the Engineering Department at the San Diego County Water Authority.
“As a senior engineering technician, I split my time between meetings, planning, reviewing documents, and maintaining a presence on a construction site,” said Karla Sanchez, senior engineering technician at the Water Authority.
“My favorite part of my role is being out in the field, monitoring construction, and working with various talented individuals in the water industry.”
Choose a career in water
The water and wastewater industry offers vast opportunities in engineering, operations, finance, public affairs, human resources, administration, and information technology.
For job openings, internships and education opportunities across the San Diego region’s water and wastewater industry, go to sandiegowaterworks.org.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Emily-Troike-845x450-1.jpg450845Andrea Morahttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngAndrea Mora2026-02-22 00:13:522026-02-23 07:40:42Water Authority Celebrates National Engineers Week
A chance conversation with a family friend resulted in a water industry career for Vallecitos Water District Asset Management Supervisor Lydon Miniter. Nearly two decades later, he has spent almost half his life working in different roles, earning a recent promotion to his current role last November.
Miniter now encourages others to follow him into the water and wastewater industry to take advantage of its job opportunities by sharing his career path story.
Versatility and Curiosity Keys to Career Advancement
Lydon Miniter worked in several roles with the Vallecitos Water District as he gained career experience. (L to R) Marissa Padilla, Capital Facilities Engineer; Lydon Miniter; and Matt Wiese, Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Miniter took a temporary role with the Valley Center Municipal Water District while he was pursuing his original goal of becoming a firefighter. But he made the career pivot, and it was a great fit for someone who wanted to contribute to his community.
Miniter applied himself to hands-on fieldwork and had the opportunity to apply his skills in responding to emergencies. With two years of experience, he was hired as a mechanical maintenance technician at the Vallecitos Water District. Miniter worked on everything from repairing fences to pumps and motors, “anything mechanical,” he recalls. Miniter says versatility is the key asset that helped him succeed and still does.
“I’m that utility guy. I have a lot of knowledge about the district and how things all work and how they all integrate together,” said Miniter.
“I like challenges, but I also like troubleshooting. I like trying to figure things out and making sure they work and how they can work together, and how we can improve them. I firmly believe that if you think you know it all, and you think you’re the most efficient you can be, you’re not looking in the right areas,” explained Miniter.
Miniter said a willingness to learn is a key skill for aspiring water and wastewater professionals, especially due to rapid changes in technology. “Are you willing to learn, or are you just willing to do what you know you’re comfortable with and not actually try something new?”
Miniter said he’s never been afraid to ask questions. “A lot of people don’t want to ask questions because they think they’re going to be looked at as unintelligent. It is important to ask those questions and to having that troubleshooting mind really helps in our industry.”
Job Growth Through Taking On Challenges for Miniter
Vallecitos Water District Asset Management Supervisor and Capital Facilities Engineer Marissa Padilla work on site at the Montiel Lift Station project. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Miniter requested a job shadowing assignment with the district’s inspection department to explore opportunities with hopes of advancing into a leadership role, broadening his skills with new challenges. It turned out to be the right fit. He learned how to read plans and conduct surveys, follow the specs, and work through projects. It led to his new role with the Inspection Department team in 2019.
After spending six years learning all aspects of the role and working as the knowledge bridge between operations and engineering, he was recently promoted to his supervisory role in Asset Management.
Rewards of Public Service In Water Industry Careers
Lydon Miniter says he never forgets that he is a public servant in his role with the Vallecitos Water District. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Miniter says he is always aware that he is a public servant.
“It’s not just a job. It’s very rewarding. You’re kind of the unsung hero,” said Miniter. He recalls working around the clock during wildfires and power outages threatening San Marcos and its surrounding areas.
“People always asked, ‘why did you have to work during the fire?’ and I would respond, ‘how are you going to fight a fire without water?’
“We were running generators, moving water, turning valves. It didn’t matter what position you were in. If you had any knowledge of the District and what was needed, you were working. That’s part of the public servant role and putting other people’s needs above your own at that time,” explained Miniter, who called it a rewarding experience.
Miniter said people may not realize the diverse career opportunities in this industry and encouraged job candidates to explore different areas of interest. “You’re going to figure out whether you like it.”
Exploring Water Careers Through Community Colleges and Internships
For those considering a career path in the water and wastewater industry, Miniter emphasized the value of hands-on experience through vocational training. He recommends taking classes at local community college programs, including Palomar College and Cuyamaca College, and participating in internship programs offered by many public utilities.
“We don’t always know what problems are out there. As they come up, and as times change, we have to think outside the box. This is where our brains and critical thinking will come in handy for all of those things,” said Miniter.
Miniter said above all, he enjoys the personal satisfaction of knowing his work contributes to the community and working with a great group of people providing a life-sustaining service.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/vwd-lydon-alison-4.jpg7181080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-02-20 07:39:172026-02-20 07:39:17Building A Career in the Water Industry
With San Diego’s rainy months just ahead, Solana Center for Environmental Innovation (Solana Center) and Think Blue San Diego (the City of San Diego Stormwater Department) are providing discounted rain barrels to encourage City of San Diego residents to collect and conserve rainwater and reduce stormwater pollution.
Rain barrels are $30 each for City of San Diego residents after the $75 discount (original price $105), while supplies last. By using a rain barrel, San Diegans can collect water for later use and reduce runoff to the ocean.
Free Rainwater Harvesting Workshops
Participants in two upcoming workshops can pick up their new discounted rain barrels at the same time. Photo: Courtesy: Solana Center for Environmental Innovation
City of San Diego residents may attend a free rainwater harvesting webinar on Wednesday, February 26, 2026, to learn more about whether rainwater harvesting is the right fit for their household before ordering their rain barrel. They may also attend a rain barrel and rain harvesting workshop on Sunday, March 29, 2026, or Sunday, April 19, 2026, and pick up their discounted barrels afterward at the same location.
“Rain barrels provide free, untreated water for gardening and landscaping,” says Solana Center educator and rain barrel specialist, Sarah Van Horn. “Collecting rainwater is also an easy step households can take to keep our local waterways clean and free from contaminants.”
Benefits of Rain Barrels
When it rains, stormwater flows from roofs, sidewalks, and other hard urban surfaces onto city streets, picking up pollution and trash along the way. Water that enters the stormwater system flows untreated directly into our creeks, rivers, bays, beaches, and, ultimately, the ocean. Instead of letting fresh rainwater flow off of your property, you can collect some of it in rain barrels where it can be saved and used to irrigate yards and plants that need it most.
Just one inch of rain yields 600 gallons per 1,000 square feet of roof space, depending on your roof configuration. That’s a lot of free, fresh water for San Diegans to divert and help their plants thrive. The rain barrels provided can store up to 50
gallons of rainwater for later use each time it rains, and include screens to prevent mosquito entry and breeding.
Collecting rainwater from your roof can contribute to water conservation by reducing the need to use potable municipal water for irrigation, helping to reduce pollutant flows to local waterways, and reducing flooding around your property and neighborhood.
Rain Barrel Program Details
City of San Diego residents eligible for discounted rain barrels can attend a virtual or an in-person workshop to learn more about maximizing their benefits. Photo: Courtesy: Solana Center for Environmental Innovation
Here’s how the program works:
1. Check your address to ensure you qualify as a City of San Diego resident.
2. Register for the rain barrel distribution event of your choice:
Sunday, Mar. 29, 2026: Mountain View Community Center – 641 S Boundary St., San Diego, CA 92113 Sunday, April 19, 2026: North Clairemont Recreation Center – 4421 Bannock Ave, San Diego, CA 92117
3. Register to attend a workshop or webinar to learn more about rainwater harvesting
and how to use your rain barrel:
Webinar: Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026 – 6 – 7 p.m.
In-Person Workshop: Sunday, Mar. 29, 2026 – 10 – 11 a.m. – Mountain View Community Center
In-Person Workshop: Sunday, Apr. 19, 2026 – 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. – North Clairemont Recreation Center
Funding for this project has been provided in full or in part from the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 and through an agreement with the State Department of Water Resources.
Solana Center for Environmental Innovation (Solana Center) is an award-winning 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Encinitas, CA that has provided waste diversion and environmental education in San Diego County for over 40 years. Solana Center’s work centers on community education, direct resource conservation and waste reduction, and innovative environmental research and development. Learn more at www.solanacenter.org.
To help educate San Diegans about the importance of stormwater services to neighborhood quality of life, Think Blue San Diego is the City of San Diego’s longest-running and most successful public education and outreach program. For more than 20 years, this Stormwater Department program has implemented innovative, proactive steps to stop pollution before it gets into storm drains.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/rain-barrel-distribution-think-blue-7.jpg7241080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-02-12 07:29:502026-02-12 07:29:50Discounted Rain Barrels and Workshops Available For San Diego Residents
Job opportunities in the water industry are plentiful and growing. That’s why the San Diego County Water Authority is making workforce development a priority, preparing the next generation of job seekers to pursue careers in this vital and often overlooked field.
The Water Authority is participating in career fairs and work panels around the county to highlight the various career paths, educational requirements, starting salaries and job growth potential in the water world.
“More than half of our workforce will be eligible to retire in the next five years,” said Cristina Lever-Santos, Principal Human Resources Analyst with the Water Authority “This will create new opportunities for meaningful careers in the water industry. Engaging our community to develop robust workforce development opportunities will help to fill critical skills and knowledge gaps, ensure operational business continuity, and create a pipeline of top talent.”
2025 Workforce Development Efforts
Water Authority employees are connecting with high school and college students, transitioning service members, veterans, and diverse immigrant communities at various events.
The goal is to showcase the wide array of jobs needed to keep water flowing to the taps. Career opportunities range from engineering, finance and public affairs roles that require college degrees, to skilled trade jobs – such as surveyors and operators, that call for a high school diploma and special certifications at differing levels.
Introductions to water careers are made at a variety of career fairs and industry events throughout the year. These include high school and college career fairs, the East County Economic Development Council Manufacturing Expo, as well as military and apprenticeship-focused fairs.
Cristina Lever-Santos and intern Lily Winesett at the East County EDC Manufacturing Expo at Cuyamaca College.
Students and prospective job candidates stop by the agency’s booth to learn about water industry career paths, internship programs, and the skills and education needed to enter and thrive in the water industry. Fun promotional materials and interactive demos also engage participants.
The agency is also partnering with the newly formed San Diego County Water Workforce Collaborative to bring together educators and industry professionals to highlight the water industry and build a future water workforce.
Plans for the Future
To inspire the next generation of water professionals, the Water Authority is also expanding its work with partners at the college and high school levels as well as collaborating with water agencies throughout the region. Programs such as the apprenticeship initiative with Cuyamaca College’s Center for Water Studies allow students to rotate through technical roles to gain practical experience in treatment and operations.
Supporting Veterans and Career Growth
The Water Authority provides training opportunities to military veterans looking for new careers in public service as part of the SkillBridge Program. The program helps military veterans transition to career-track training opportunities, including work in the water and wastewater industry. More than 30,000 service members separate from the military each year in California, and more than half are transitioning out of active duty in the San Diego region.
Learn More About a Career in Water
Senior Human Resources Analyst Patty Duran at the Camp Pendleton Career Exploration & Hiring Event.
San Diego County Water Authority and its 22 member agencies launched SanDiegoWaterWorks.org, serving as a one-stop shop for regional water and wastewater industry careers. It provides the first comprehensive list of job openings across the San Diego region in a convenient location. The site features:
Current water and wastewater job postings in the San Diego region
Career advice and resources on training, education and internship programs
Stories featuring rewarding careers in the water industry
Resources and information on special training programs and internships for military veterans
In addition, the California Urban Water Agencies career ladders offer valuable resources by highlighting career paths, requirements, and salaries within the water sector – from entry-level positions to advanced technical and executive leadership roles.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/workforce-development-1.jpg9021203Jordan Beanehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngJordan Beane2026-02-11 07:36:382026-02-11 07:41:26Water Authority Ramps Up Workforce Development
San Diego regional member water agencies and California water associations offer multiple college scholarship opportunities in 2026 to help candidates secure their education as water and wastewater professionals.
The acceleration of industry retirements, along with the increasing need for a skilled workforce trained to implement new technologies, is driving greater efforts to develop more skilled individuals for water and wastewater industry jobs, including in San Diego County.
Scholarships are available for community college, four-year colleges and universities, and graduate-level programs. The following examples are due in the coming weeks for the following academic school year.
San Diego Regional Water Scholarships
Helix Water District Scholarships
Helix Water District will recognize two outstanding graduating high school seniors living within the district’s service area with $2,000 scholarships for their university studies next fall. The amount of the award has increased from 2025.
The Robert D. Friedgen Scholarship and the Dr. Lillian M. Childs Scholarship honor two past leaders of Helix Water District. Friedgen retired in 1998 after 19 years as the district’s general manager, and Childs retired in 1999 after 20 years on the board of directors. These scholarship awards have also increased to $2,000 this year.
Applicants must graduate in Spring 2026 and attend a four-year college or university starting in Fall 2026. Students submit a two-page essay exploring potable reuse and the East County Advanced Water Purification project. The scholarship committee reviews each applicant’s grades, extracurricular activities, volunteer and work experience, academic and career goals and financial need.
Vallecitos Water District Scholarships
Six scholarships are available for high school and college students who are residents of the Vallecitos Water District.
Vallecitos Water District invites local high school seniors and students at Palomar College and California State University San Marcos to compete for scholarships from the District. Up to six scholarships may be awarded in amounts up to $2,000 per scholarship. The purpose of the scholarship program is to encourage students to learn more about water related issues impacting their community.
Eligible students must live or go to school within the Vallecitos Water District’s service area. Scholarship applications from students pursuing a career in water, environmental science, engineering or other related fields are highly desirable.
Students must complete an essay and provide a personal statement related to their background and/or goals. Selection criteria also include community involvement or volunteer service, a financial needs worksheet, and letters of recommendation from faculty or an associate.
Scholarship packages are now available. Email Chris Robbins to get application materials. Applications for the 2026 scholarship must be emailed or delivered to the District office by Friday, March 27, 2026.
Vista Irrigation District invites local high school seniors to compete for up to six scholarship(s) from the District in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. The purpose of the scholarship program is to increase knowledge and awareness of how water related issues influence our daily activities.
Students who compete for a scholarship must complete an essay and provide a one-page personal statement related to their background and/or goals. Selection criteria also include community involvement or volunteer service, and letters of recommendation from high school faculty.
Applications must be received via email or at the District’s office by 4 p.m. on Friday February 20, 2026. Eligible students must live or go to school within the Vista Irrigation District service area. Find the application link here.
Contact Brent Reyes at (760) 597-3107 or with questions or to request application information.
Sweetwater Authority “Work For Water” Scholarships
Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to new or currently enrolled students at the Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College or another accredited college, community college or trade school with a career goal in the water industry. The application deadline has not been determined. For questions regarding the scholarship, application, or uploading documentation, email .
Institution-Based College Scholarships
The Mark Watton Scholarship Fund through the Foundation for Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges supports students attending the Center for Water Studies at Cuyamaca College. It honors Otay Water District General Manager Mark Watton’s four decades of service to the district.
Applicants must be currently enrolled for at least six units at Cuyamaca College, verify financial need, and complete the general application and essay. Scholarships of $1,000 are available. Application dates are March 23 to May 1, 2026.
Students can contact Cuyamaca College scholarship specialist Shirley Hughes with questions at
National University partners with the San Diego County Water Authority to offer a 25% tuition reduction scholarship to employees and employees of all member water agencies. The San Diego County Water Authority Tuition Reduction Scholarship benefits working adults who want to reach specific educational goals but find it challenging to fit classes into their busy life. The tuition reduction scholarship can be applied to most associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs. Click for more information.
Statewide Water Association Scholarships
Association of California Water Agencies Scholarships for Undergrads and Grad Students
The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) offers three undergraduate scholarships, two graduate scholarship and a fellowship opportunity to qualified applicants attending a University of California or California State University campus. Students must be juniors or seniors pursuing an undergraduate degree in a water-resources related field such as engineering, agriculture, environmental studies, or public administration. Criteria include scholastic achievement and motivation to the vocation of water-resources management.
ACWA began its scholarship programs in 1961 to motivate committed students to join the effort to ensure California’s water quality through sound management policies. The scholarship program is all about investing in future water leaders.
Deadline: March 1, 2026. Application Link. For questions, call 916-441-4545 or email .
American Water Works Association Scholarships
The American Water Works Association offers scholarships for graduate and undergraduate studies.
The California-Nevada section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) awards more than $20,000 in scholarships in support of students and professionals pursuing careers in a drinking water-related field. Three $5,000 graduate scholarships, four $2,500 undergraduate scholarships, and two $1,000 scholarships in support of training as a drinking water treatment/distribution operator are available.
Environmental and civil engineers; water, wastewater, and recycling treatment plant operators; distribution system operators; chemists; laboratory technicians; biologists, ecologists, and environmental scientists; and others whose roles support safe and reliable drinking water are all suitable candidates.
Deadline: March 15, 2026. Application Link. For information, call 909-481-7200 or email
Water Education Foundation For Graduate Students
The Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) Canham Graduate Studies scholarship provides $25,000 for a graduate student in the water environment field. The scholarship is for education-related expenses such as room and board, tuition, and books. The scholarship may not be used to cover stipends or wages.
The applicant must be a WEF member, complete an online application, and be enrolled in a graduate program. Recipients must commit to working in the water industry for two years following graduation.
Undergraduate and graduate students in STEM fields can also explore careers in water through the InFLOW STEMpath Track program, which introduces them to water industry careers through virtual education and an annual conference. Learn more on the program webpage.
With approximately 1,400 water and wastewater jobs expected to open up across San Diego County in the next five years due to retirements, water industry careers offer promising lifelong professional opportunities. For more information, visit sandiegowaterworks.org
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2025-04-21-an-0986-dfd-apprentice.jpg7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-02-06 07:26:552026-02-07 13:56:162026 Scholarship Applications Open for Aspiring San Diego Water Professionals
The popular WaterSmart Landscape Makeover annual competition is now open for 2026 entries. The contest highlights residential landscaping, with nonfunctional grass areas transformed into flourishing, colorful, water-smart landscapes.
Contest judges look for winners who represent the best in landscaping makeover projects from 12 participating San Diego County water agencies.
Karen Fleck and Tom Clarke created a livable space that uses less water. Their landscape project won the 2025 Padre Dam Municipal Water District landscape contest. Photo: Padre Dam Municipal Water District
Winning entrants feature unique approaches to their landscape projects. They demonstrate the wide range of options for creating lush, beautiful landscapes that rely more on native plants and less on large areas of thirsty grass.
Entries are judged on overall attractiveness, efficient irrigation methods, design, and appropriate plant selection and maintenance. The creative results and personal stories help inform and inspire other homeowners to consider their own new yard designs.
Cooler Winter Months Perfect Time for Landscape Updates
Award-winning landscape projects offer inspiration to other homeowners pursuing their own landscape makeovers. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District
“The cooler winter months are the ideal time to make changes to your landscaping,” said Water Authority Senior Water Resources Specialist Debby Dunn. “Take advantage of our ongoing educational programs and rebates to create your own water-wise wonderland.
“To help choose the plants that best fit your style and climate, check out the Water Authority’s Nifty 50 and Happy 100 plant lists. These lists can help everyone create beautiful, lush, colorful, thriving landscapes filled with birds, bees, and butterflies.”
Which Agencies Are Participating In 2026?
Low-water plants, improved irrigation technologies, and WaterSmart classes reduce energy use, protect natural resources, and create beautiful outdoor living spaces. Photo: Vista Irrigation District
Participating agencies in 2026 include the cities of Escondido and Oceanside, Helix Water District, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, Otay Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Rincon Del Diablo Water District, San Dieguito Water District, Sweetwater Authority, Vallecitos Water District, and Vista Irrigation District.
Each agency winner receives a $250 gift certificate and public recognition for their efforts. Homeowners may also be eligible for turf removal rebates and additional incentives, which can help defray project costs. Applications must be complete and approved prior to beginning your landscape work.
This year’s contest deadline for all participating agencies is Friday, May 8, 2026. Homeowners may submit their entry online or through their participating agency. This is where you pay your water bill. You must be a resident within agency boundaries to participate.
WaterSmart Landscaping Saves Estimated 36 Million Gallons Annually
The beautiful Fletcher Hills yard filled with native plants is the winner of the Helix Water District 2025 WaterSmart Landscape Contest. Photo: Helix Water District
Outdoor water use accounts for 62% of San Diego County’s water consumption, mainly for landscape irrigation. Yards with a lot of grass can greatly increase overall water consumption.
Conservation education efforts, including the WaterSmart Landscape Contest, offer ways to create landscapes tailored to your favorite activities, incorporating the needs of children, pets, accessible areas, pollinators, and specialty gardens.
Self-Study Landscape Makeover Video Series Offered by Water Authority
The Water Authority offers free options to help homeowners plan their makeovers. Homeowners can get started by viewing step-by-step videos on the Water Authority YouTube channel.
Additional online resources include Guides and Surveys that cover a wide range of topics, including efficient irrigation, water-wise plants, landscape design, healthy soil, finding and fixing leaks, landscape maintenance, and more.
Each winner will receive a $250 gift certificate and recognition in the appropriate agency’s newsletter, on their website, and other promotional materials.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/otay-2025-catherine-spence.jpg7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-02-03 07:21:092026-02-03 07:21:09WaterSmart Landscape Makeover Contest Open for 2026 Entries
Community artists were recognized at the January board meeting of the Vallecitos Water District for contributions of their artwork to the District’s Sustainable Demonstration Garden.
“Artwork is a wonderful addition to any garden, as it still sparkles when the plants are going through their dormancy period,” said garden creator Lisa Urabe, a UC Master Gardener and recently retired Vallecitos employee. She explains that the artwork also helps draw more attention to the garden, introducing residents to the value of sustainable gardening.
Contributing artists span multiple generations, from a Brownie troop with members ages five to eight years old, to a painter who beautified the garden’s Seed Library, who is age 97.
Meet the artists who donated their time and talent on behalf of the Vallecitos Water District.
Virginia Ryba, Ceramics Artist
Vallecitos staff discovered beautiful ceramic birdhouses at the San Marcos Senior Center during an outreach event and contacted artist Virginia Ryba to inquire about purchasing a birdhouse for the Sustainable Demonstration Garden. Ryba said it would be her honor to donate one.
Ryba selected a birdhouse with a roof she crafted by imprinting the leaves from sunflower plants in her garden. Ryba shows her ceramics art at local North County events, including the San Marcos Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. See Ryba’s work at the Valley Center Ceramics Instagram page.
Members of Girl Scout Troop 65091 and Brownie Troop 1765
Kristine Chau with her daughters Arya and Mila, who decorated and donated a bee box as a portable seed library to the Vallecitos Water District. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Kristine Chau brought local Girl Scouts and homeschoolers for a tour of the Sustainable Demonstration Garden as part of a project earning badges for the “Wonders of Water Journey,” including a “Save Water” Award. During the tour, the girls participated in a “tea party” where they each brought a teacup and filled it with succulents and gems, creating their own garden art to take home.
After the tour, Chau and the scouts came up with the idea of converting a native “bee box” into a portable seed library and donating it. “The design on the seed library incorporates elements of water and nature, utilizing some Waldorf art techniques,” explained Chau. Vallecitos staff uses the portable seed library at outreach events.
In addition, Chau’s daughters Arya and Mila created items for a fairy garden and added painted stones to show how a water-wise garden could be fun and kid-friendly.
“She was inspired by how much she plays in our own fairy garden, which came about organically, starting with just a bunch of nature items. She hopes the fairy garden will bring joy to any children visiting the garden at Vallecitos Water District,” said the proud scout leader and mom.
Ann Kreile, Painter and Artist
San Marcos painter and artist Ann Kreile is an avid gardener. who contributed her artwork for display in the Vallecitos Sustainable Demonstration Garden. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
After a presentation at Palomar Estates West mobile home park in San Marcos, Vallecitos Water District staff toured the property, including its community garden. It was decorated with beautiful artwork. The artist is resident Ann Kreile. When contacted, the 97-year-old avid gardener was thrilled to contribute her artwork for display in the Sustainable Demonstration Garden.
Kreile also repainted the district’s Native Seed Library, which had faded from the sun. She also painted a new garden library sign to draw more attention to the District’s garden book library and created an additional sign that the District plans to customize with a water-wise message.
Ann Kreile repainted the Sustainable Demonstration Garden’s seed library. It had badly faded during its two years of use. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Master Gardeners Association of San Diego
Urabe recruited talented artists among fellow members of the Master Gardeners Association of San Diego to beautify a planned display of water and sewer pipes typically used in residential neighborhoods. She obtained scrap pipe materials, and three Master Gardeners, including Urabe, decorated the pipes with mosaic work.
Association President Heather Holland said member volunteer efforts, including their arts outreach, are part of the Association’s mission to teach science-based gardening and sustainability techniques to people of all ages and backgrounds throughout San Diego County.
This mosaic art was created for a planned display of water and sewer pipes typically used in residential neighborhoods, using a scrap piece of pipe. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
“Our 350 volunteers help educate our community through schools, community gardens, churches, hospitals, memory care centers, correctional facilities, and social media, including projects like the Vallecitos Demonstration Garden. Our work impacts San Diego in a multitude of positive ways, one garden at a time,” said Holland.
Each pipe has its own theme: Ocean, created by Lisa Urabe; Waterwise Landscape, created by Kimberlee Kelso; and Wildflowers, created by Judy MacKenzie.
Kim Kelso combined her love for gardening and artistic skills to support the Sustainable Demonstration Garden as a member of the Master Gardeners Association of San Diego. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
MacKenzie runs the art studio for the Master Gardeners Association and teaches many of the classes. Kelso is the school garden coordinator at San Marcos Elementary School. The Vallecitos Water District has provided supplies for the school’s garden to encourage the next generation to embrace water-wise gardening.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/vwd-ann-artwork-1080x720.jpg7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-01-28 07:43:562026-01-28 07:43:56Vallecitos Water District Honors Artist Contributions To Demonstration Garden
The Helix Water District plays host this week to the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s “Being Water Wise Is” traveling art show, now through January 30, at its administration office, located at 7811 University Avenue in La Mesa.
The show displays the original artwork created by talented students from kindergarten through 12th grade from across Southern California, including member agency entrants from San Diego County.
The winning poster from Helix Water District 2025 contest entrant Emma Phillips is featured in the art show. Her poster is among those included in the Metropolitan Water District’s 2026 “Being Water Wise Is” calendar. Emma is an eighth-grade student at Christ Lutheran School.
Winning Ways By Helix Student Artists
The winning entry from Emma Phillips. Photo: Helix Water District
Each year, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, one of our wholesale water providers, holds a regional poster contest to increase student awareness about water. This past year, kindergarten through 12th-grade students throughout the Helix Water District competed to have their poster win the district’s poster contest and claim a coveted spot in the Metropolitan Water District’s “Being Water Wise Is” calendar.
Helix Water District winners have been selected for the Metropolitan calendar every year since 2020. The 2025 high school winner, Helix Charter High School ninth-grader Catalina Jones, has won the Helix Water District Contest twice and had her artwork selected for the Metropolitan calendar twice. Her artwork appeared in the 2024 and 2023 calendars.
Other winning students include Charlotte Chatham (2025), Cameryn Kovar (2024), Clare Brandt (2023), Lucas Regimbal (2022), Jose Sabedra and Mina Saeed (2021), and Valeria Ramirez (2020). Phillips now joins them.
Members of the public are welcome to view the art show during business hours at the Helix Water District administration building in La Mesa this week. Photo: Helix Water District
The public is welcome to visit the Helix Water District administration office during business hours to enjoy these inspiring works of art. The district thanks all its past participants for their creativity and commitment to water-wise practices and looks forward to new entries in the 2026 “Being Water Wise Is” Student Poster Art contest.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/helix-art-show-0092-1080x720.jpg7231080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-01-27 07:29:252026-01-27 07:29:25Helix Water District Hosts Student Art Show
The San Diego County Water Authority Board of Directors on Thursday unanimously elected Carlsbad City Councilmember Teresa Acosta as the board’s new Secretary. Acosta replaces Joy Lyndes, who stepped down following her recent announcement that she will not seek re-election to her position on the Encinitas City Council this year.
“The San Diego County Water Authority is fortunate to have Director Acosta step up during this critical time in the agency’s history,” said Board Chair Nick Serrano, who represents the City of San Diego. “As an elected official in our North County, she brings a community perspective and a collaborative mindset to the Authority. She also shares my unwavering commitment to ensuring ratepayer affordability, and I look forward to working with her in this new leadership role to bring down costs for all San Diegans while ensuring a safe and reliable water supply.”
Acosta, who has been Carlsbad’s District 4 councilmember since 2020, currently serves as the vice chair of the Water Authority’s Legislation and Public Outreach Committee and is a member of the Administrative and Finance Committee. Additionally, Acosta is the First Vice President of the League of California Cities Board of Directors and and will become its president in September 2026.
“I’m honored by the support of my colleagues as I take over the role of board secretary,” said Director Acosta. “I look to expand on the foundation that Director Lyndes and the rest of the leadership team built as we ensure this agency is doing everything possible for working families across the region.”
Director Lyndes has represented San Dieguito Water District on the Water Authority Board since 2023 and has served as secretary since her unanimous election in October 2024. She plans to remain on the Water Authority Board through the end of the year.
“Director Lyndes has brought grounded, thoughtful, and collaborative leadership to every Board meeting particularly as we have placed significant focus on affordability, reliability, and long-term planning,” Chair Serrano said. “I am sincerely grateful for her leadership here at the Water Authority and her continued service to our region.”
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/screenshot-2026-01-22-151132.png340528Jordan Beanehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngJordan Beane2026-01-23 07:48:162026-01-23 07:48:52Teresa Acosta Elected Secretary of Water Authority Board
After two years, the Native Plant Seed Library established by the Vallecitos Water District is flourishing thanks to community contributors known as “Seed Heroes.”
The seed library is located in the Sustainable Demonstration Garden at the district’s headquarters in San Marcos. The district originally partnered with the San Diego Bird Alliance (formerly the Audubon Society) to launch the groundbreaking initiative to safeguard botanical heritage for future generations.
The seed library focuses on San Diego County’s indigenous plants. Native plants benefit local wildlife and typically use less than half the water required by most drought-tolerant plants, such as rosemary or lavender.
Seed Library Helps Remove Barriers to Growing Native Plants
The Vallecitos Seed Library is located at the district’s headquarters in San Marcos. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Vallecitos Water District public information representative and UCCE Master Gardener Lisa Urabe had wanted a California native plant garden for years for its many benefits, but finding a wide selection of native plants was becoming time-consuming and costly. Her experience helped inspire the Native Plant Seed Library initiative at Vallecitos.
“The original goal for the native seed library was to remove some of the barriers to growing native plants, mainly the difficulty in obtaining California native plants and the cost,” explained Urabe.
“By offering our customers and residents a zero-cost, fun, and easy way to include California native plants in their gardens, we’ve created a way to reduce landscape water usage while creating habitat that supports birds, pollinators, and other local wildlife.”
Learn more about the Seed Library
To date, the seed library has distributed 2,000 individual seed envelopes. Urabe worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help it write best management practices on running native seed library programs.
Urabe retired at the end of 2025, leaving the seed library in good hands with help from the community seed heroes and Vallecitos’ Conservation team.
“From the popularity of the seed library, we know that the seeds are being planted. It’s the greatest retirement gift to know that this little seed library has created wildlife habitat for generations to come!” said Urabe.
Recognition for Contributors as “Seed Heroes”
Urabe said recognizing the dedicated contributors as “Seed Heroes” was the district’s way of highlighting community members who have embraced and supported this project through their seed donations and native plant expertise.
Donn and Terry Reese with examples of the seeds they have contributed to the Vallecitos Water District Seed Library. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Donn and Terry Reese contributed seeds from native Coast Live Oaks, along with exotic fruits from their home garden, including cherimoya and sapote, and a variety of vegetable seeds. Donn Reese is a UC Master Gardener. Non-native seeds are also included in the seed library.
Williams was brand new to gardening when he undertook his award-winning makeover project. Several years later, he is hooked. He enjoys the activity in his garden every day. “It’s kind of a place for all the insects and birds. It’s neat to watch all the wildlife. I get a kick out of it.”
Dean Williams won the 2023 Vallecitos Water District Landscape Makeover contest, which jump started his interest in gardening. Photo: Vallecitos Water District
Williams used the PlantNet app to identify the plants. All are drought tolerant and attract native wildlife and pollinators. Williams has planted Viguera, Red Bush Monkeyflower, Desert Globemallow, Elegant Clarkia, and Succulent Lupine with seeds from the library.
In return, Williams often restocks the library with seeds harvested from the plants he’s grown. “It’s a nice way to give back and keep the library stocked with various kinds of seeds.” Williams is creating an edible garden this year and plans to contribute cilantro seeds to the library.
Milkweed is one of the many types of seeds contributed from the personal garden of Dean WIlliams. Photo: Courtesy Dean Williams
Williams encourages beginners to seek out resources from their water district and other organizations for help. “If I could do this, anybody could do it. I couldn’t grow anything before!”
Seed Library Preserves Local Biodiversity
Seeds currently available at the library include California poppy, black sage, and narrow-leaf milkweed, a species that supports monarch butterfly populations. By promoting the cultivation of indigenous species, the library seeks not only to preserve biodiversity but also to support the health and resilience of local ecosystems.
California poppy seeds are available in the Seed Library, contributed by Dean Williams. Photo: Courtesy Dean Williams
The Native Plant Seed Library Program, launched three years ago by volunteers from the San Diego Bird Alliance, addresses the critical lack of native habitat in San Diego County.
With more than 60 Native Seed Libraries established and supported by staff and organizations such as the California Native Plant Society (San Diego Chapter), the program educates the community about the importance of native plants and provides accessible seeds.
An interactive map helps locate the nearest library. Users are encouraged to return clean, mature seeds to sustain both plant life and the free libraries. For more details, visit the map or email
The seed box is available during normal business hours. The address is 201 Vallecitos De Oro, San Marcos. Learn more about the Native Plant Seed Library at its webpage.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/vwd-seed-library-2024-6979-1080x720.jpg7201080Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2026-01-21 08:45:132026-01-23 11:52:47Seed Heroes Helps Vallecitos Water District Seed Library Flourish
