WaterFest Returns on May 2, 2026
MONROVIA – The Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (Upper Water) is proud to announce the return of WaterFest, a free, family‑friendly community event taking place on Saturday, May 2nd, at Arcadia County Park. WaterFest brings together the community for a day dedicated to learning about local water resources, conservation, and sustainability.
This year’s WaterFest will feature hands‑on activities, interactive exhibits, educational demonstrations, and opportunities for families to learn about the importance of protecting the San Gabriel Valley’s natural resources. Exhibitors will include local water agencies, environmental organizations, and community partners offering information, giveaways, and engaging displays for all ages.
Upper Water extends its sincere appreciation to this year’s event sponsors: Supervisor Kathryn Barger, California American Water Company, California Domestic Water Company, Foothill Transit, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority, San Gabriel Valley Water Association, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, Stetson Engineers, and Valley County Water District. Their support helps ensure that WaterFest remains an accessible and impactful educational event for the entire community.
WaterFest has long served as a cornerstone of Upper Water’s outreach efforts, offering residents a chance to interact directly with experts about how water is managed, where it comes from, and how everyone can play a role in protecting this vital resource. With California’s evolving climate and ongoing water challenges, events like WaterFest help build understanding and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
In addition to educational booths, attendees can enjoy children’s activities, student artwork displays, conservation resources, and opportunities to connect with agencies that serve the San Gabriel Valley. The event is free and open to the public, and all are welcome to attend!
For more information, please visit https://upperwater.org/waterfest-3/.
May 2026 Priority Issues Update Now Available
The May 2026 Priority Issues Update is now available online to members.
The update is a summary of the latest developments on issues of interest to ACWA members. This issue contains information on ACWA’s sponsored bills, federal funding and more.
The new and previous Priority Issues Updates can be found here.
WVWD Recognizes Art Contest Winners & Educators at Splash of Excellence
WALNUT – Walnut Valley Water District (WVWD) celebrated student creativity and teacher innovation at its annual “Splash of Excellence” Awards Ceremony, held April 22 at the new WVWD Headquarters. The event honored winners of the “Being Water Wise Is…” Art Contest and recipients of the Splash Cash Teacher Grant, bringing together students, educators, school leaders, and families for an evening of recognition.
More than 650 students from three local school districts, private schools, and art studios participated in this year’s “Being Water Wise Is…” Art Contest bringing to life unique perspectives on what it means to be water wise. Nineteen students were honored alongside their teachers for artwork that stood out for its originality and message.
A highlight of the evening was the Community Favorite Award, which sparked enthusiastic community participation and drew over 31,000 votes cast through WVWD’s website and Instagram. The overwhelming response highlighted the community’s enthusiasm for and connection to the students’ art.
As a special recognition, winners received custom trophies featuring their own artwork, along with personalized stickers provided for both the students and their teachers showcasing the winning designs. In addition, each piece of artwork was framed and presented to them as a meaningful keepsake of their achievement.
WVWD also recognized 10 teachers through the Splash Cash Teacher Grant program, awarding more than $13,000 in total grants this school year to support classroom projects and educational enrichment.
“Seeing the creativity and enthusiasm of our students and teachers is a reminder of why these programs matter,” said Katrina Lumague, External Affairs and Sustainability Coordinator. “The District is committed to continuing partnerships that provide meaningful opportunities for learning and community engagement.”
To view the winning student artwork, visit the Art Contest page on our website at walnutvalleywater.gov.
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About WVWD
WVWD was formed in 1952, and after seven decades of service to the community, the District operates and maintains a drinking water and recycled water system serving a population of nearly 100,000 residents. The WVWD team is comprised of water professionals dedicated to meeting the water supply needs of the communities it serves (Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights, Pomona, Industry, and West Covina). WVWD is committed to leading with integrity and does so through excellence in customer service, communication, accountability, reliability, efficiency, and quality.
Carmichael Water District Announces Ken Payne as Interim General Manager
The Carmichael Water District (CWD) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ken Payne as Interim General Manager, effective May 1, 2026.
Payne brings more than four decades of experience in environmental utilities, with a career spanning local and regional government leadership, policy development, and strategic advocacy. During that time, he guided the development and implementation of programs addressing complex water and environmental challenges, while advancing legislative, funding, and policy initiatives at both the state and federal levels.
“Ken Payne brings a depth of experience and steady leadership that will be invaluable during this transition. His long-standing commitment to water policy and public service, combined with his ability to navigate complex challenges, makes him exceptionally well-suited to guide the District as we look to the future,” said CWD Board President Mark Emmerson.
Throughout his career, Payne has held executive roles across counties, cities, and special districts, working closely with governing boards, councils, commissions, and committees. Most recently, he led key initiatives in El Dorado County, including comprehensive rural and agricultural water demand and economic analysis, securing critical state and federal support during the Caldor Fire.
Previously Payne served as General Manager of the El Dorado County Water Agency and as Environmental Utilities Director for the City of Folsom. His private-sector experience includes roles as a founding member of Payne Environmental Consulting, partner at Municipal Consulting Group, Senior Associate with Malcolm Pirnie, Principal with Camp Dresser & McKee, and Senior Associate with the Spink Corporation.
Recruitment for a permanent General Manager will begin in June 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Details and application information will be available at that time on the CWD website www.carmichaelwd.org/
IEUA and City of Chino Come Together for 17th Annual Earth Day Event
CHINO – On April 22 and 23, 2026, the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA/Agency) and the City of Chino partnered to present its 17th annual two-day Earth Day celebration. This year’s festivities provided Water Discovery field trips to approximately 850 students, parents, and educators on Wednesday, April 22. Close to 1,300 participants attended the Community Day celebration on Thursday, April 23, which included scout troops and City of Chino’s after-school program participants.
“Each Earth Day is a powerful reminder that safeguarding our water resources takes consistent dedication and strong community partnerships like the great partnership we have with the City of Chino and its residents,” stated Steve Elie, IEUA Board President. “Through hands-on experiences, we’re able to connect young learners and the community to the importance of strengthening our shared responsibility to preserve clean, reliable water for future generations.”
“Earth Day reflects our community’s commitment to caring for the world we share,” said Chino Mayor Eunice Ulloa. “It’s inspiring when students and families come together to learn about water conservation and environmental stewardship. I appreciate IEUA’s continued partnership in helping make events like this possible for the Chino community.”
Students who participated in the field trip portion enjoyed an environmental show as well as engaging activities to better understand proper recycling, the water cycle, water usage, and the wetlands and its functions. The Community Day celebration featured 45 educational and interactive booths that showcased hands-on educational activities, animal encounters, train rides around the park, environmental exhibits, plant and compost education, water-saving technologies, free giveaways, and much more!
“Every small action adds up to a lasting impact,” continued Elie. “By engaging both students and community members, we’re helping build a more water-wise and environmentally responsible community for current and future generations.”
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Chino Creek Wetlands and Educational Park was partially funded by a grant from the State Water Resources Control Board.
The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA/Agency) is an innovative, forward-thinking Agency serving 242-square miles in western San Bernardino County. The Agency is committed to supporting the needs of its service area and safeguarding public health through its significant investments in developing a diversified water supply portfolio, developing reliable municipal/industrial wastewater collection and treatment services, and other related utility services in a regionally planned and cost-effective manner. IEUA’s mission ensures long-term success for the region and its customer agencies which include Chino, Chino Hills, Cucamonga Valley Water District, Fontana, Fontana Water Company, Montclair, Monte Vista Water District, Ontario, San Antonio Water Company, Upland, and West Valley Water District.
The City of Chino encompasses approximately 30 square miles and is home to the Chino Creek Wetlands and Educational Park, Prado Regional Park, and over 88,000 residents in the western San Bernardino region.
Earth Day Poster Contest Winners Receive Awards at PWD
PALMDALE – Dozens of Palmdale School District students and their families and teachers filled the Palmdale Water District (PWD) Board Room Monday night when the winners of the annual PWD Earth Day Poster Contest were recognized. This year’s theme was “Every Drop Counts,” and students were asked to submit drawings that promoted water conservation in honor of Earth Day. Fifteen teachers from seven schools had their classes participate in the contest. The PWD Board of Directors judged 301 entries. “I am very impressed with how artistic the students are,” said PWD Director Scott Kellerman. “It was not an easy task to choose the winners. They all did excellent work.” Many of the students’ creative art pieces highlighted water conservation and provided tips on how to save water, in turn saving the planet. The colorful posters were designed with crayons, markers and pencils. The upper-grade entries included more details expressing ways to conserve water around the house. “This year, we received so many outstanding posters that we decided to add an Honorable Mention category,” said Water-Use Efficiency Specialist Maria Avelar. “The quality of work was exceptional, and we wanted to make sure the students were recognized. We look forward to getting more teachers and students involved next year.” The first-place winners were Yucca Elementary’s second grader Shania Rutherford; Quail Valley Elementary’s third grader Alexis Garate; Golden Poppy Elementary’s fourth grader Alexander Avege and fifth grader Alexandra Williams; and Sage Magnet Academy’s sixth grader Lyla Morales, seventh grader Lexie Lopez and eighth grader Daryan Michell. The first-place winners in each grade level received $25 Target gift cards, while $15 cards were given for second place and $10 cards for third place and honorable mention. All the students who submitted entries received participation certificates. The 15 teachers each received a $50 Target gift card to spend on supplies for their classrooms. Since 1918, the Palmdale Water District has provided high-quality water at a reasonable cost. We pride ourselves on providing great customer care; advocating for local water issues that help our residents; educating the community on water-use efficiency; and leading our region in researching and implementing emerging technologies that increase operational efficiency. For more information about PWD, visit www.palmdalewater.org.###
Children’s Water Education Festival Brings Classroom Learning Outdoors
More than 5,600 elementary students from across Orange County attended the 29th annual Children’s Water Education Festival, presented by the Orange County Water District (OCWD). The free, two-day educational event, held April 15-16 at Oak Canyon Park in Silverado, engaged third, fourth, and fifth-grade students in hands-on learning while introducing careers in water, science, engineering and environmental fields. “It’s great to see so many young minds actively engaged in learning about our water supply and how to protect this precious resource,” said OCWD Board President Denis R. Bilodeau, P.E. “This event highlights how industry and community partners are working together to educate the next generation of water stewards.” Through interactive presentations and demonstrations led by water professionals, educators, and community organizations, students explored topics such as groundwater recharge, water reuse, watershed management, water quality, and local wildlife. “It is rewarding to support an event that teaches students about environmental stewardship,” said Donna Baker, Director of Environmental Affairs at the Disneyland Resort. “As a longtime supporter and presenter, we appreciate the opportunity to engage students through hands-on learning and introduce pathways to careers that support sustainable resource management and community infrastructure.” Festival Highlights:- Attendance: 5,624 students from 218 classes and 72 schools representing 22 cities throughout Orange County, including approximately 660 teachers and parents
- Presenters: 64 activities from OCWD, Disney, Santa Ana Zoo, Ocean Institute, Scouting America, Columbia Memorial Space Center, Discovery Cube and more
Local Water District’s Federal Advocacy Earns Statewide Recognition
OXNARD — National water policy debates are increasingly shaped by local expertise, and United Water Conservation District (United Water) is being honored for helping lead that conversation. The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) has named the district its Most Effective Agency on a Federal Issue.
“Water agencies have a responsibility to speak up when federal decisions affect the communities we serve,” said Mauricio Guardado, General Manager of United Water. “Our goal is simple: policies grounded in sound science, transparency, and real-world water management. This recognition reflects the persistence of our staff and partners who are willing to do the work and engage.”
The award, presented at ACWA’s Washington, D.C. Conference on February 26, 2026, highlights agencies that play a leading role in federal issues important to California water providers.
“United Water Conservation District has demonstrated what strong federal engagement looks like,” said Marwan Khalifa, Interim Executive Director of ACWA. “Their leadership helped elevate critical water management challenges and push forward thoughtful solutions that support both environmental stewardship and water reliability.”
Over the past year, United Water has taken Ventura County water issues to the national stage through congressional testimony, legislative collaboration, regulatory advocacy, and precedent-setting legal action.
United Water engaged at the federal level to support legislation improving clarity, accountability, and coordination for water agencies, including direct engagement with congressional staff to ensure operational realities were reflected in the legislative process, resulting in meaningful progress on key measures.
Through its work in Washington and beyond, United Water continues to elevate the role of local water agencies in shaping federal policy that affects communities, agriculture, and long-term water reliability.
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About United Water Conservation District
Since 1927, United Water Conservation District (District) has served as a leader among water agencies by managing, protecting, enhancing and securing the water resources of the Santa Clara River and Oxnard Coastal Plain. United Water works to protect the environment’s natural attributes and conserves runoff from all major tributaries of the Santa Clara River, including Piru, Hopper, Sespe, and Santa Paula Creeks. Committed to managing the area’s water supplies through groundwater replenishment and the construction and operation of efficient water supply and delivery systems, United Water serves as the conservator of groundwater resources that are utilized by the cities of Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Ventura, Santa Paula, and Fillmore, as well as Naval Base Ventura County and several mutual water districts, farms, and individual pumpers. United Water also provides surface water for agricultural irrigation and treated drinking water to the cities of Oxnard and Port Hueneme. www.unitedwater.org
RWD Receives More Than $30,000 Refund from Statewide Insurance Program
ROWLAND HEIGHTS — Rowland Water District (RWD) will put $30,287.28 back to work for its customers after receiving a full equity refund from a statewide water agency insurance program that recently dissolved. RWD was among a group of member agencies that participated in the program over many years, and the refund reflects a portion of the remaining assets after all obligations were settled.
The funds come from the Association of California Water Agencies Joint Powers Insurance Authority (ACWA JPIA) Underground Storage Tank Pollution Liability Pooled Program, which member agencies voted to wind down after a comprehensive review of the program’s long-term sustainability. The program was a pooled approach to provide cost-effective liability coverage for leaks and pollution from underground storage tanks. With all liabilities cleared, the program returned its remaining assets to participating districts, including RWD, based on each agency’s contribution history.
“We are extremely thoughtful about where ratepayer dollars go,” said RWD General Manager Tom Coleman. “Receiving this refund is an important reminder that participating in well-run programs pays off over time, especially for our customers.”
RWD’s existing strategic plan, adopted last year, is built around a simple purpose: caring for our neighbors and our future. Recovering funds like this supports that commitment directly, putting money back into the system, services, and programs that keep water reliable, fairly priced, and accessible for every customer RWD serves.
For more information, visit www.rwd.org.
Western Water Awards $6 million to Support the Lee Lake Wells Project
RIVERSIDE – Western Municipal Water District (Western Water) announced it is awarding over $6 million in grant funding to Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) to support the Lee Lake Wells Project, strengthening long-term water reliability across the Santa Ana River watershed. The project is part of the Santa Ana River Conservation and Conjunctive Use Program (SARCCUP), a multiagency initiative spanning six groundwater basins in the watershed.
“Strong partnerships make this work possible. When our agencies are aligned, we make better decisions, invest more wisely, and deliver better water service to our communities,” said Western Water’s Board President Laura Roughton. “We truly value our growing partnership with EVMWD and our shared goals for the future.”
The Lee Lake Wells Project includes the construction of new well facilities, the installation of well equipment and water treatment systems, and the connection to the Temescal Canyon transmission pipeline. Together, these improvements will enhance local water supply reliability, strengthen infrastructure, and support environmental stewardship.
Through SARCCUP, the project supports strategic storage of up to 4,500 acre-feet of water in the Elsinore Basin over three wet years, enough to meet the annual water needs of thousands of local families. It also provides the capacity to extract up to 1,500 acre-feet annually during droughts.
“Ensuring long-term water supply reliability for our customers is a core responsibility of EVMWD. Projects like Lee Lake Wells are critical to that mission,” said EVMWD General Manager Greg Thomas. “Our partnership with Western Water through SARCCUP has provided the collaboration and support needed to adapt, overcome challenges, and keep this project moving forward.”
Partnership is central to SARCCUP’s work, which began as a shared regional vision to better manage water through interagency coordination. That vision moved forward in 2016, when the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority secured funding through the California Department of Water Resources.
“Together, we are focused on strengthening our operations together to secure the region’s future water supply,” said Western Water General Manager Craig Miller. “This additional funding moves us closer to completion of the Lee Lake Wells Project and advances our shared commitment to long-term water resilience.”
The Lee Lake Wells Project was originally supported with approximately $300,000 in grant funding. As the project evolved to include additional components, such as water treatment, additional grant funding was secured over time, culminating in more than $6 million in total support. The grant was presented at EVMWD’s board meeting on Thursday, April 23.
“EVMWD is deeply committed to building a resilient water future for our community, and that commitment is strengthened through strong regional partnerships,” said EVMWD Board President Andy Morris. “This grant represents what’s possible when agencies come together around a shared vision, working collaboratively to improve reliability, maximize existing resources, and deliver long-term benefits across the Santa Ana River watershed.”
Together, Western Water, EVMWD and SARCCUP partner agencies will continue working to position the region to meet future water demand needs.