The Water Authority’s “Faces of the Water Industry” public outreach campaign created by Public Affairs Representative Andrea Mora won in the Social Media category.
Judges said, “This campaign is organized and includes measurable data in the planning and results. The team executed well and set a great example of what a social campaign should look like.”
Water professionals highlighted
“There are so many exciting career opportunities in the water and wastewater industry,” said Mora. “I enjoyed putting my skills to work showcasing the featured professionals and encouraging people to learn more about these jobs.”
The Water Authority’s “Faces of the Water Industry” public outreach campaign created by Public Affairs Representative Andrea Mora won its CAPIO Award of Distinction in the Social Media category.
Water conservation in San Diego
The “Water Smart Living” series of articles created by Water Resources Specialist Joni German and also published as a public service by Times of San Diego won its award in the Writing category. The judges observed, “Remarkable work here. Water conservation is a tough sell, even when it’s clearly a problem. Very well done!” and added “Great real world results!”
Water Resources Specialist Joni German (L) and Public Affairs Representative Andrea Mora (R) with CAPIO Awards of Distinction for San Diego County Water Authority outreach programs. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
“We work hard to find new and engaging ways to help inform San Diego County residents on ways they can contribute to water conservation,” said German. “We’re grateful to Times of San Diego for giving us a platform to reach their readers.”
EPIC Awards honor work with a lasting impact
The CAPIO EPIC Awards recognize the “best of the best” in government communications throughout the state. Winning entries demonstrate the most creative and effective efforts in the areas of communication and marketing campaigns, newsletter production, photography, special events, writing, website development, and video production.
The EPIC Awards honor work that made a lasting impact, providing an equal chance of winning to all entrants regardless of company or agency size and project budget. Entries are assessed on research and planning efforts which display an understanding of audience objectives and needs for information; development and execution; and how successfully the entrant organization achieves its objectives.
The Water Authority is a previous CAPIO EPIC Award winner for its “Drought Safe San Diego” public outreach campaign for Communication or Marketing Plans/Campaigns – In-House; and an Award of Distinction for Video Production – Promotional – In House; and also an EPIC award winner for Water News Network in the Websites category.
The San Diego Press Club has named Water News Network Best Public Service Website for five straight years.
Award-Winning Record
For the fifth consecutive year, the Water Authority’s news portal Water News Network won first place as the Best Public Service or Consumer Advocacy Website in the 49th annual San Diego Press Club Excellence in Journalism Awards. The award was among seven awards for WNN, including recognition for Environmental Writing, General News, and Series – Light Subject.
Joni German won second place in the Series – Light Subject, Online and Daily News category for WNN’s “WaterSmart Living Series.”
Public Affairs Representative Kimberlyn Velasquez was awarded an honorable mention for Photography/Video in the Feature-Light Subject category for her video, “Hauck Mesa Storage Reservoir Moving to Completion,” which was included in a WNN story on the project.
The San Diego Press Club honors the region’s best communicators in media each year at the Excellence in Journalism Awards.
In November, the Water Authority outreach program, “Drought Safe San Diego,” won a Silver Award of Excellence at the annual Public Relations Society of America, San Diego-Imperial Counties chapter 2022 Edward L. Bernays Awards.
Vista Irrigation District has awarded college scholarships to six high school seniors and selected three fourth-grade students as winners of two separate district‑sponsored contests.
The annual contest is open to high school seniors living or attending school within the Vista Irrigation District service area. The content is intended to increase the knowledge and awareness of water-related issues affecting the region. The district received twelve applications this year.
Scholarships for students
Naia Riggenbach from Pacific Ridge High School and Riley Robbins from Rancho Buena Vista High School each received $2,000 scholarships as winners of the Vista Irrigation District 2023 scholarship contest. Monica Lozada from San Marcos High School and Colin Gastauer, Sarai Rojas and Samantha Harris all from Vista High School received $1,500 scholarships as runners-up in the District scholarship contest.
Fourth graders promote water conservation through art
First place poster winner by student Belinda Chacon. Photo: Vista Irrigation District
Grapevine Elementary School fourth-grade student Belinda Chacon received first place in the Vista Irrigation District’s 2023 Water Awareness Poster Contest. She received a $100 award.
Second place poster winner by student Olivia Rye. Photo: Vista Irrigation District
Olivia Rye from St. Francis School received a second-place award of $50.
Third place poster winner by student Caroline Noesgaard. Photo: Vista Irrigation District
Caroline Noesgaard from Casita Center placed third and received a $25 award.
The poster contest is open to all fourth-grade students at schools within the Vista Irrigation District service area. The contest’s goal is to promote an understanding of water issues.
This year’s theme was “Love Water, Save Water.” The three winning posters were selected from 189 entries based upon their depiction of the theme, artwork, originality, and poster design. The winning posters will appear in the 2024 Water Awareness Calendar, which will be available free at the district’s office starting in November 2023.
(Editor’s note: The Vista Irrigation District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego County region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/VID-Scholarship-Group-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2023-05-07 15:24:372023-05-07 17:07:54Six Students Awarded Scholarships by Vista Irrigation District
Using water efficiently is a way of life and an important responsibility in the San Diego region. Water users have learned how to make the most of every drop and avoid wasteful or careless habits. Homeowners are replacing impractical thirsty lawns with beautiful low-water-use landscaping.
Over the past decade, residents have adopted habits that not only save money, but also create vibrant yards, reduce energy use, protect natural resources, and reduce landscape maintenance.
Customers can visit the California-friendly demonstration garden and hydroponic gardening tower at OMWD’s headquarters free any day of the year. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District
The sustainable landscape demonstration garden at Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s headquarters provides customers with examples of water-efficient landscaping techniques that can save water and money. Techniques include rain harvesting, and the garden features a rain barrel, a larger cistern, and a dry stream bed to capture water for later use.
Sustainable landscape demonstration gardens can help inspire homeowners to create and maintain their own beautiful, low-water-use landscapes at home. Since half of the water used in California’s urban areas goes toward landscape irrigation, any reduction contributes to successful conservation efforts.
New hydroponic gardening system
A hydroponic growing system called a Tower Garden is the newest addition to the Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s demonstration garden. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District
OMWD has added a hydroponic gardening unit to its demonstration garden. It was provided through a donation by Tower Garden. The Tower Garden unit displays a water-efficient form of growing produce in a compact and vertical system. It is of particular interest to people who are looking for more water-wise methods of growing produce than traditional growing practices.
“OMWD encourages ratepayers to continue to make conservation a way of life and explore the many innovative and water-use efficient products that are available on the market,” said OMWD Board Treasurer Neal Meyers. “A great place to start is outdoors. We hope customers take advantage of free resources and rebates to design a water-efficient landscape, and consider other water-saving options like graywater and hydroponic systems.”
Save water, money and go hydroponic
Hydroponic systems grow plants in a water-based nutrient solution rather than soil. Hydroponic systems use less water than traditional soil-based growing systems. In commercial agricultural settings and farms, hydroponic systems can produce faster growth and higher yields of crops. The systems can also be used in home gardens. Some units can use up to 90% less water than traditional produce gardens.
The demo garden hydroponic unit is operational and will be maintained by BCK Programs. Local scout troops in the district will help maintain the unit under supervision. The scouts earn conservation patches for their volunteer work. Crops harvested will be donated to scout volunteers, or donated to a local community food bank. A second system donated by Tower Garden will be used by BCK Programs to provide hydroponic gardening lessons in local schools.
Customers can visit the California-friendly demonstration garden and hydroponic gardening tower at OMWD’s headquarters free any day of the year. It is also viewable online. The garden highlights four key principles of sustainable landscaping. Visitors can learn about healthy soils, rainwater as a resource, climate-appropriate plants, and low-water-use irrigation.
Demonstration gardens inspire water savings
Demonstration gardens can provide inspiration to homeowners to achieve water savings through landscape makeover projects. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District
In a 2007 survey published in The Journal of the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta, half of those surveyed during a visit to the Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College, found that making a change to their landscape was due to their visit to the water conservation demonstration garden. The results illustrate the value of demonstration gardens to the community.
The demonstration garden at Olivenhain’s headquarters received financial support from the Hans & Margaret Doe Charitable Trust at San Diego Foundation, Hunter Industries, Grangetto’s Farm & Garden Supply, and Bushman USA.
(Editor’s note: The Olivenhain Municipal Water District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego County region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/OMWD-Demo-Garden-845X450-20220929_demo-garden-streambed.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2023-05-05 04:31:472023-05-05 04:31:47Demonstration Garden is Inspiration for Olivenhain MWD Customers
Middle and high school students from San Diego and Imperial counties showcased their creativity and innovation in water technology at the Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair.
Winning students at the March event presented multi-faceted water technology designed for use in agriculture, water conservation, safety and treatment, creating solutions to some of the San Diego region’s most pressing water issues.
For decades, the San Diego County Water Authority has partnered with the Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair to inspire students to pursue water industry careers and experiment with sustainable water designs.
High school students invent next-generation water technology
Kyle Tianshi and Sarah Gao tied for first place in the senior division for their development of water purifying technologies. Tianshi, an eleventh grader at The Cambridge School, focused on water pollutant identification through light scattering. Tianshi said the project used fluorescent emissions and lasers to detect microplastics in drinking water.
Gao’s work with wastewater treatment experimented with plant seeds as flocculants for water purification. A Canyon Crest Academy sophomore, Gao was also named an ISEF finalist for her work and will compete in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Dallas, Texas in May.
Srija Sengupta from Westview High School took home the second-place senior award for her project, “Good on Land and Bad in Water: Effects of Fertilizer-Rich Runoff on Algal Growth.” Sengupta’s research tested the effects of fertilizer runoff in Dixon Lake and the subsequent impact on marine life, finding that phosphorous-rich fertilizers contributed the most to algae growth.
Middle school students ‘wow’ with work in water technology
In the junior division, Ryan Richardson was awarded first place for his automatic faucet invention. When tested, Richardson’s faucet was found to save more than 50% of water in a household of four, prioritizing water conservation. He is already pursuing a patent for his invention.
From Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School, seventh graders Joaquin Revilla Harker and Tyler Rowe earned the second-place junior division title. Harker and Rowe’s research tested the growth capabilities of different water on grass, finding that gray water was the most suitable for growth, which can help conserve drinking water.
Caleb Raagas, who is also a seventh grader at Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School, was awarded the junior division’s third place award for his research on the effects of salinity levels on the production of hydroelectricity.
“This year’s winners all developed projects that address or could help solve a critical issue related to water, such as water quality, water supply management, and water purification,” said Sami Sweis, Engineer P.E. at the Water Authority. “Our industry needs bright young people like these students to use cutting-edge technology and innovation to help maintain safe and reliable water supplies for generations to come.”
Welcoming future environmental innovators
There are more than 2,800 professionals in the water and wastewater industry in San Diego County, who work hard to provide safe and reliable water supplies to the region. The Water Authority’s continued partnerships with the community work to guarantee a future of opportunity for students interested in being a part of this industry.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Science-fair-2023-845x450-1.jpg450845Kristiene Gonghttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngKristiene Gong2023-05-03 12:44:312023-05-04 09:50:04Students Showcase Innovation in Water Technology
Eight high school students were honored for their award-winning photographs in the annual Sweetwater Authority High School Photo Contest. The winners were selected from a group of 62 students from high schools across the South Bay within the Authority’s service area. Students submitted 148 entries in two categories, color, and black and white.
Winners were recognized at the April 26 Sweetwater Authority board meeting.
“The Board is proud to support this annual contest and looks forward to seeing the entries and continued involvement from our local high school community,” said Sweetwater Authority Board Chair Hector Martinez. “We are continually amazed by the talent and photography skills of students in our service area, and we encourage residents to go to see the photos at the Bonita Museum and Historical Society.”
Color Category Winners
First Place: “Make A Splash,” Cristian Ramirez, Hilltop High School, Grade 12
Second Place: “Life,” Averie Acosta, Bonita Vista High School, Grade 10
Third Place: “Hilltop Park Stream,” Daniel Hernandez, Chula Vista High School, Grade 9
Honorable Mention: “A Stroke of Color,” Andrea Covarrubias, Hilltop High School
Honorable Mention: “Calaman-sea,” Jeremy De Las Alas, Bonita Vista High School
Honorable Mention: “Ripples and Rocks,” Stuart Nelson, Hilltop High School
Black & White Category Winners
First Place: “Match,” Averie Acosta, Bonita Vista High School, Grade 10
Second Place: “Kick the Water,” Allison Reyes, Bonita Vista, High School, Grade 11
Third Place: “Drops on Umbrella,” Stuart Nelson, Hilltop High School, Grade 12
Honorable Mention: “Morning Dew,” Jeremy De Las Alas, Bonita Vista High School
Honorable Mention: “The Rose,” Nicholas Gallegos, Hilltop High School
All the winning photos are displayed online, and at a special exhibit at the Bonita Museum & Cultural Center.
(Editor’s note: The Sweetwater Authority is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego County region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Sweetwater-Photo-2023-Color-HM3-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2023-04-27 14:04:432023-04-27 14:04:43Eight Student Photographers Selected as Sweetwater Authority High School Photo Contest Winners
“Invest in Our Planet” is the theme for Earth Day 2023. Investing in sustainable, local water supply sources and conservation has long been a way of life in San Diego County by water agencies and residents.
“Investing in our planet can take many forms, and the challenges we face differ from community to community,” said San Diego County Water Authority General Manager Sandra L. Kerl. “One investment I encourage San Diegans to think about on this Earth Day is landscape transformation. This is important because the biggest users of water at our homes are our landscapes – perhaps as much as 70% of our water use, depending on where we live.”
Sustainability is a priority of the Water Authority and its 24 member agencies. Maintaining a sustainable water supply ensures the vitality of San Diego County’s $268 billion economy and a safe, reliable supply for the region’s 3.3 million residents.
"The #EarthDay2023 theme “Invest in Our Planet” aligns perfectly with what the @sdcwa and its 24 member agencies have done for decades. It points to the necessity of dedicating time and resources to ensuring a sustainable water supply for our community." https://t.co/YOiozXknmV
— San Diego County Water Authority (@sdcwa) April 22, 2023
Earth Day and WaterSmart San Diego
Along with federal, state and local government support, including grant funds, the Water Authority and its 24-member agencies have developed diversified, sustainable, local water supply sources. The agencies also collaborate to secure funding for programs that help residents and businesses use water efficiently and smartly.
Using water efficiently has long been a way of life in the region. Conserving more of our most precious resource is a responsibility that comes with living in San Diego’s Mediterranean climate. Over the past decade, residents and businesses across the county have adopted “WaterSmart” plants, irrigation technologies and habits that not only save money, but also create vibrant yards, reduce energy use, protect natural resources and reduce landscape maintenance.
Invest in the Planet by Living WaterSmart
The Water Authority partners with other agencies and organizations to offer a variety of WaterSmart tools, including classes and rebates, along with a water-use calculator and other resources.
Increasing local supply sources also benefits the greater Southwest U.S. by reducing demand on imported sources. A hotter, drier climate in the arid west requires climate adapation solutions and region-wide collaboration to ensure water supply reliability.
Sustainable water projects
The Water Authority and its 24 member agencies have long-embraced sustainable practices to conserve water and energy. All water agencies work together on forward-thinking projects to expand local supply sources. By investing locally in water recycling, desalination and potable reuse projects, the agencies reduce the need for imported water, freeing those supplies for other parts of California and the Southwest U.S.
Olivenhain Recycled Water Pipeline
A new recycled water pipeline in Encinitas is helping to reduce the region’s dependence on imported water supply.
“Every drop of recycled water used on our landscapes replaces a drop of imported drinking water.” A new recycled water pipeline in Encinitas helps reduce the region’s dependence on imported water supply. https://t.co/1LQ8GC8ysh#EarthWeek2023#cawater#sustainability
— San Diego County Water Authority (@sdcwa) April 18, 2023
East County AWP
Scheduled to be complete in 2026, the East County Advanced Water Purification Program will generate up to 11.5 million gallons per day of purified water— meeting approximately 30% of current drinking water demands for East San Diego County residents and businesses. “In 2045, potable reuse projects are going to provide up to 20% of the water that we need here in San Diego County,” said San Diego County Water Authority General Manager Sandra L. Kerl at the June 2022 groundbreaking. “This region has been excellent in its innovation and planning for water needs for the region.”
“In this year when many areas of California and the West are facing extreme hardships with drought, the East County AWP is really another step forward in reliability for its water supply partners and the region,” said Sandra L. Kerl, General Manager, San Diego County Water Authority, at the June 1 groundbreaking ceremony for the recycled water project. Photo: East County Advanced Water Purification Program
Pure Water Oceanside
The $70 million Pure Water Oceanside project uses advanced technology, including ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis and advanced oxidation to provide 3 million gallons per day or more than 20% of the City of Oceanside’s drinking water supply. The source of the recycled water to create the purified water is from the city’s own San Luis Rey Water Reclamation Facility.
The $70 million project uses advanced technology, including ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis and advanced oxidation to provide 3 million gallons per day or more than 20% of the City of Oceanside’s drinking water supply. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
Pure Water San Diego
Pure Water San Diego is the City of San Diego’s largest-ever infrastructure program that will provide nearly half of San Diego’s water supply by 2035. Pure Water will use purification technology to clean recycled wastewater and is a cost-effective investment for San Diego’s water supply needs.
Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant
The Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant has served more than 100 billion gallons of high-quality, locally controlled water over the past seven years – a milestone passed in late October 2022. The plant produces an average of more than 50 million gallons of high-quality water every day. It’s a foundational water supply for the San Diego region that minimizes vulnerability to drought and other water supply emergencies.
The Carlsbad Desalination Plant is the largest, most technologically advanced and energy-efficient desalination plant in the nation, and it has provided a sustainable water supply to residents and businesses in San Diego County since December 2015. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
This is great news!
As we continue to confront increasingly frequent and intense droughts, today’s announcement is an exciting step in our efforts to provide sustainable, reliable water supplies for San Diego County. https://t.co/OH6l76KZT2
Renewable energy from natural resources such as sunlight, wind and water is quickly becoming a critical component of California’s power supply. As a water supplier, the Water Authority pursues a variety of hydroelectric and solar energy projects to help reduce energy costs and stabilize water rates.
A power purchase agreement with CleanCapital enabled the Water Authority to install solar power systems at no cost. The solar power systems installed at the Water Authority’s Kearny Mesa headquarters, Escondido Operations Center and Twin Oaks Valley Water Treatment Plant produce an estimated 2.5 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy each year. The 20-year agreement with CleanCapital will save the Water Authority approximately $3 million over the lifetime of the agreement, and supports the agency’s commitment to sustainability.
The solar power systems installed at the Water Authority’s Kearny Mesa headquarters, Escondido Operations Center and Twin Oaks Valley Water Treatment Plant produce an estimated 2.5 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy each year. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority
Earth Week and Earth Day Events
Scheduled events are hosted by several City of San Diego departments, including Library, Sustainability and Mobility,
Transportation, Environmental Services and Parks and Recreation, and are all free to attend.
• Arbor Day Celebration Event – Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Join the City of San Diego at the 2023 Arbor Day Event in Mission Bay’s Vacation Isle, on Hibiscus Lane, as volunteers and City leaders plant trees and beautify the park, reminding us of the benefits of trees and our urban canopy.
• Creek to Bay Cleanup – Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join Think Blue San Diego and partner I Love a Clean San Diego for the largest cleanup in San Diego County. Choose from 4,000 cleanup sites to volunteer and beautify our local environment.
• Earth Day Celebration at South Clairemont Recreation Center – Saturday, April 22, 10 a.m. – Noon. Join the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department at the South Clairmont Recreation Center, 3605 Clairemont Drive. The free event will include seed planting, a park cleanup, simple crafts and a self-guided scavenger hunt. There will be informational booths throughout the park as well. All ages are welcome.
Along with April’s celebratory events, the City of San Diego’s Climate Action and Climate Resilient SD plans, and other initiatives under the “Our Climate, Our Future” umbrella, demonstrate the City’s commitment to climate action and protecting the environment. These evolving programs will help the City achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 while benefitting residents through new economic opportunities, improving natural and urban spaces, and protecting vulnerable communities from climate threats like extreme heat, wildfires and sea level rise.
Ramona Municipal Water District Saturday, April 22. The Ramona Municipal Water District will have a booth at Sustainable Ramona‘s 2nd annual Ramona Earth Day Festival, Noon- 5 p.m. at the Ramona Community Garden, San Vicente Rd. and 11th Street, Ramona. Staff will have water conservation giveaways, answer questions about water and conservation, and also participate in the festival “Treasure Hunt” for children.
City of Escondido Saturday, April 22 9 a.m. – Noon. Escondido will be hosting two clean-up location sites in partnership with I Love a Clean San Diego at Dixon Lake and Reidy Creek. A 3D poster using recycled material and created by students in Escondido is displayed at the Escondido Arts Partnership Gallery on Grand Avenue in April.
— San Diego County Water Authority (@sdcwa) April 18, 2023
The Water Conservation Garden and San Diego Tree Week
San Diego Tree Week, April 22-29, an initiative of The Water Conservation Garden, is intended to bring neighbors together to plant trees in their community. Businesses, schools, and individuals will come together to celebrate the many benefits of trees. Details: thegarden.org/sd-treeweek/.
Celebrate San Diego Tree Week with with a tree and a treat on Apr 29, 10am-1pm. Learn about the the benefits of trees and ask the professionals how to care for them! There are a few spots for workshops and tree giveaway limited availability.
(Editor’s Note: The City of San Diego, City of Escondido, City of Oceanside, Helix Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Ramona Municipal Water District, Vallecitos Water District, and the Olivenhain Municipal Water District, are eight of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/WNN-Sweetwater-2022-Landscape-Winner-845X450-Earth-Day-2023.jpg450845Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2023-04-19 18:23:152023-04-22 12:39:33Every Day is Earth Day for Water Agencies in San Diego County
Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility is the California Water Environment Association statewide 2022 Plant of the Year. The award was presented April 19 at CWEA’s Annual Conference in San Diego.
The award acknowledges the facility’s accomplishments to increase water supply reliability by reducing imported water demand and plant operations. In addition to the honors as California’s plant of the year, the facility received the same designation at the local level earlier this year from CWEA’s San Diego Section.
“OMWD is honored to be selected as the Plant of the Year by CWEA in the statewide competition,” said Board President Christy Guerin. “The 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility is celebrating its 20-year anniversary this year, and this award recognizes the plant’s long-standing contribution to the communities we serve by producing a drought-resilient, sustainable water supply.”
Today, @cwea presented the statewide 2022 Plant of the Year Award to OMWD’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility. The award acknowledges accomplishments in the wastewater industry and wastewater treatment to public health and the environment. https://t.co/oSsLKERjWVpic.twitter.com/tkG52aLmTB
The water district serves up to 15% of its overall demand from recycled water treated through its 4S Ranch facility and agreements with neighboring recycled water providers. As California’s water supply becomes more affected by unpredictable swings in weather, so does the need for innovative and diversified approaches to help reduce demand for valuable drinking water supply.
OMWD provides and distributes recycled water for non-potable uses in portions of its service area for landscape irrigation at schools, parks, golf courses, streetscapes, and homeowner association common areas.
OMWD serves up to 15% of its overall demand from recycled water treated through its 4S Ranch facility and agreements with neighboring recycled water providers. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District
CWEA’s award program recognizes professional achievements within the wastewater industry and stimulates public awareness of the importance of wastewater treatment to public health and the environment. 4S WRF operators maintain over 85 miles of sewer collection system pipelines, lift stations, a 410-acre-foot storage pond, and a one-million-gallon reservoir to provide wastewater and recycled water services.
Founded in 1927, the California Water Environment Association is a not-for-profit association of 9,000-plus professionals in the wastewater industry. The association trains and certifies wastewater professionals, disseminates technical information, and promotes sound policies to benefit society through the protection and enhancement of our water environment.
(Editor’s note: The Olivenhain Municipal Water District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego County region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/OMWD-4S-Ranch-Water-Reclamation-Facility-Honored-PRIMARY.jpg450845Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2023-04-19 17:01:562023-04-20 18:02:28Olivenhain Municipal Water District 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility Is California’s Plant of the Year
(Editor’s Note: This feature highlights new members of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 36-member Board of Directors. Each of the Water Authority’s 24 member agencies appoints at least one representative to the Board, which sets policy for the Water Authority.)
Welcome to the Board: Kyle Swanson, Padre Dam Municipal Water District
Who: Kyle Swanson was seated on the San Diego County Water Authority Board of Directors on January 11, 2023, representing the Padre Dam Municipal Water District. Swanson serves on the Administrative and Finance, Legislation and Public Outreach and Water Conservation Garden JPA committees for the Water Authority.
Background/Education: Swanson, a native of San Diego, earned a bachelor’s degree in geography from San Diego State University. He is the CEO/General Manager of the Padre Dam Municipal Water District and previously served as Executive Director of the East County Advanced Water Purification Project. He holds a Grade 5 Water Distribution Operator Certification and a Grade 2 Water Treatment Operator Certification, both from the State Water Resources Control Board. Swanson is also a Certified Public Manager and a Certified Special District Manager, SDLF.
Water Industry Affiliations:
WateReuse California, Member Board of Trustees; American Water Works Association (AWWA); California Water Environment Association (CWEA); Association California Water Agencies (ACWA); and California Special Districts Association (CSDA).
Q & A
Q: How did you get interested in water issues?
A: As a San Diego Native my interest in water started at a young age. I was fortunate to have a family actively involved in the construction of large civil water treatment and conveyance infrastructure in the southwest. My father would routinely take me to projects providing an early respect for the facilities required to deliver safe and reliable water to our taps. My education and career followed with a water interest studying and working in hydrology and later with public water utilities. Water is both powerful and transformational; the issues relating are also equally so.
Q: What are your priorities or interests as a Board member?
A: Ensuring future generations benefit from our efforts towards water resiliency, development of local water supplies and the continual investment in a robust water system.
Q: Besides maintaining safe and reliable water supplies, what do you see as the top three issues facing the San Diego region?
A: Cost of Living, Resource Stewardship, Societal Collaboration
Q: What do you like to do when you are not working?
A: I’m an avid outdoor enthusiast. I enjoy camping with my family, exploring the natural beauty, riding mountain bikes and restoring cars. San Diego offers the perfect playground. We all need to take more time to pause our days and enjoy those around us and the environment we live in.
The Water Authority’s Board of Directors typically meets on the fourth Thursday of each month. The Board invites the public to attend its monthly meetings and to comment on agenda items or other matters before the Board. For meeting times, agendas and documents, go towww.sdcwa.org/board-directors
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kyle-Swanson-Welcome-to-the-Board-March-2023-Primary.jpg450845Mike Leehttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngMike Lee2023-04-06 08:10:212023-04-06 08:21:02Welcome to the Board: Kyle Swanson, Padre Dam Municipal Water District
Californians gave their irrigation systems the winter off in much of 2023 thanks to above-average precipitation. As the weather warms, the U.S. EPA encourages everyone to perform a maintenance check in April as part of its “Sprinkler Spruce Up” effort.
A sprinkler spruce-up involves four steps: inspect, connect, direct, and select. Cracks in pipes can lead to costly leaks, and broken sprinkler heads can waste water and money. System maintenance can help save money and water, up to 25,000 gallons of water, and $280 over a six-month irrigation season. April is an ideal time to spruce up your irrigation system.
Look for leaks and breaks
Because most irrigation systems run in the early morning, missing or broken sprinkler heads may go unnoticed. This can cause overflow or flooding on landscapes or waste water on hard surfaces.
Inspect your irrigation system and look for sprinkler heads that do not pop up fully or are tilted. Flag them so they can be located and repaired later. You may be able to do it yourself but call on a WaterSense-certified professional who can replace the broken sprinkler heads.
Check all connections
Leaks can occur at the joints between sprinklers and the piping. Leaking joints can also be caused by too much water pressure or particles in the water. Check to ensure your pressure regulator is installed properly.
Between irrigation cycles, look for water pooling on the surface of your landscaping. This could be caused by an underground leak. Check the connections inside valve boxes to make sure all the valves and other components are securely connected. If the valves cannot close completely, your system could slowly seep water even when turned off.
Survey your irrigation coverage
Irrigation water spraying on hardscapes instead of landscape plants is wasted down the stormwater drain. While your system is running, note any overspray and adjust sprinklers toward your landscaping.
For best results:
Each sprinkler should be able to reach the sprinkler head next to it, called head-to-head coverage.
Direct sprinklers for uniform coverage to avoid dry spots.
Maintain consistent water pressure so that nozzles can operate efficiently.
Upgrade to a smart controller. Weather and soil moisture-based controllers can automatically adjust your watering schedule.
The greatest waste of water in landscape irrigation comes from watering too much, too fast. Observe how water absorbs into the ground during the watering cycle. If water begins running off your landscaping or pooling, run sprinklers in multiple shorter sessions with breaks. This allows water to soak into the soil and minimizes runoff.
Instructions to help homeowners check in-ground irrigation ground systems here: “It’s Time to Start a Sprinkler Spruce-Up!” The EPA’s checklist “Find It, Flag It, Fix It: A Checklist For Your Landscape” shows how to walk through your landscape to identify problems. The checklist also provides additional irrigation and landscape tips and suggestions about when to call in an irrigation professional.
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ws-outdoor-ssu-connect-valve-box-Primary-845x450-1.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2023-04-05 08:39:002023-04-12 13:09:10Spruce Up Your Sprinklers in April
The Otay Water District has launched its annual WaterSmart Landscape Contest as part of a continuing effort to encourage water conservation. Outdoor watering accounts for more than half of residential water use. The resident judged to have the most attractive, drought-toleranat garden receives a nursery gift card, among other prizes, and the title “Best in District.” The deadline to enter is Friday, May 12.
“This contest recognizes the outdoor conservation efforts our residential customers have made during a time when it matters most,” said Otay Water District Board President Mark Robak. “Previous winners of this program have proven that it is possible to create low-water and low-maintenance landscapes with curb appeal.”
The Feibers used beautiful low-water use plants to replace more than 2,000 square feet of turf. Photo: Otay Water District
To participate, residents must fill out an application and submit before and after photos of their landscape, a plant list, and a description of their landscape’s transformation. Nominations are also welcome. Front, back, and side yards are eligible.
The beautiful, wheelchair accessible garden inspired by Patricia Wood’s daughter Kimberly is the 2020 Otay Water District Landscape Contest winner. Photo: Otay Water District
The 2023 regional WaterSmart Landscape Makeover competition seeks the best in landscaping makeover projects from 12 participating San Diego County water agencies. The annual competition is intended to showcase residential water-saving landscaping projects. Winning examples help inform and inspire other homeowners to consider replacing their water-guzzling grass yards.
“We’re encouraged by the enthusiastic participation by San Diego County homeowners who are moving away from lawn-intensive landscaping as the default choice,” said Joni German, Water Resources Specialist with the San Diego County Water Authority. “Homeowners are creating lush, colorful, thriving landscapes which are water-efficient and beautiful at the same time.”
Twelve participating agencies in San Diego County
Patricia Wood’s landscape design has broad paths to accomodate a wheelchair. Photo: Otay Water DIstrict
Along with the Otay Water District, participating agencies in 2023 include: California American Water, the cities of Escondido and Oceanside, Helix Water District, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Rincon Del Diablo Water District, San Dieguito Water District, Sweetwater Authority, Vallecitos Water District, and the Vista Irrigation District.
Each agency winner receives a $250 gift certificate and public recognition for their efforts. Homeowners may also be eligible for grass removal rebates and additional incentives.
(Editor’s Note: The Otay Water District, the cities of Escondido and Oceanside, Helix Water District, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Rincon Del Diablo Water District, San Dieguito Water District, Sweetwater Authority, Vallecitos Water District, and the Vista Irrigation District are 11 of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the San Diego region.)
https://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Otay-2021-Landscape-4089-845X450.jpg450845Gayle Falkenthalhttps://www.waternewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WNN-Horizontal-White-Blue2.pngGayle Falkenthal2023-04-04 08:30:342023-04-04 08:30:34Otay Water District Opens 2023 Landscape Makeover Contest
