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April 2026 ACWA News Available

Read the April edition of ACWA News for informative articles about the association and water industry. Articles include:

Momentum, Energy and Potential Building at ACWA for 2026

A couple of months into my role as Interim Executive Director, I attended the ACWA 2025 Spring Conference in Monterey. It was a Thursday, and most attendees were heading home for a well-earned long weekend. But my new colleagues kept working with the same intensity as if the conference had just begun. 

There were trucks to be packed, post-conference surveys to go out and work projects waiting back in Sacramento and Washington D.C. ACWA staff members didn’t miss a beat. I was surprised and deeply impressed. Now, a year later, I am incredibly honored to be leading this world-class organization while working alongside ACWA staff professionals to deliver results for our member agencies. 

We’re just a few months into 2026, yet the pace and impact of ACWA’s work have been remarkable. There’s a palpable sense of momentum, energy and potential being realized.

The launch of ACWA’s Vision for Our Water Future has moved forward at an impressive speed. The cornerstone of this initiative is a policy document that articulates our members’ unified priorities and recommended actions to secure a reliable and affordable water future for California. 

Through regional board meetings, and briefings, committee and board discussions, and outreach at both the state and federal levels, this effort is already elevating water as a key priority for California’s future. The professionalism, collaboration and dedication that went into launching this initiative reflects the very best of ACWA.

You can learn more about Vision for Our Water Future on page 1, including how members can access a recently distributed toolkit with messaging materials to help support and promote the initiative.

Meanwhile, we continue working hard to provide the services members expect. From planning and delivering major events such as the Legislative Symposium and D.C. Conference, to navigating the legislative season and regulatory issues, we continue to support our members. 

This outstanding performance can be measured. ACWA’s 2025-’29 Strategic Plan established 50 key performance indicators, or KPIs, more than 80% of which have either been completed or on track to completion in areas spanning advocacy, connections, education and organizational effectiveness.

What stands out most to me is the teamwork across our organization, and this applies both internally among staff and externally throughout our membership. The willingness of people to step up, support one another and move important work forward together is what makes ACWA such a strong and respected association.

That spirit of teamwork is what will continue to carry ACWA forward. The challenges facing California water are immense, but so is our strength, which is deeply rooted in collaboration, expertise and commitment to a water resilient future.

Helix Water District Student Poster Contest Winners Highlight What “Being Water Wise Is”

Helix Water District honored local student artists for their winning posters showcasing what “Being Water Wise Is” at an awards ceremony during the district’s board meeting on April 15, 2026.

Each year, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, one of Helix’s wholesale water providers, holds a regional poster contest to increase student awareness about water.

Helix promotes the contest to all K-8 schools within its service area. This year, 230 students from 18 schools submitted posters depicting how to use water wisely. The following students took top honors:

Grades K-2 Category:
First Place – Evie Makin, La Mesa Dale Elementary, Grade 2

Grades 3-4 Category:
First Place – Heather Medina, Highlands Elementary, Grade 4
Second Place – Zoey Castillo, Highlands Elementary, Grade 4
Third Place – Joy-Elise Tavarez, Northmont Elementary, Grade 4
Honorable Mention – Hayley Argyle, Flying Hills School of the Arts, Grade 4

Grade 5 Category:
First Place – Lilly Mallory, Flying Hills School of the Arts, Grade 5
Second Place – Brooklynn Harr, Fletcher Hills Elementary, Grade 5
Third Place – Natalie Trillas, Flying Hills School of the Arts, Grade 5
Honorable Mention – Mikaela Moore, Flying Hills School of the Arts, Grade 5

Grades 6-8 Category:
First Place – Brooklyn Gray, Learning Choice Academy, Grade 7

Helix will forward the winning posters to the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California for consideration for their 2027 “Being Water Wise Is” calendar. The winning posters are also posted on the district’s website at www.hwd.com and Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/helixwater.

 

Cultivating Conservation: SMWD Hosts Inland Seniors for Garden Tour

Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) recently welcomed 45 senior residents from Jurupa Community Services District, which provides drinking water and wastewater services in Riverside County, for a memorable, hands-on tour focused on water conservation and sustainable gardening.

Hosted at SMWD’s headquarters, the District’s half-acre demonstration garden transformed into an immersive learning experience—engaging visitors through sight, scent, and taste. Guests explored climate-friendly landscaping while discovering unique plant features, from the refreshing aroma of peppermint geranium to the edible petals of pineapple guava.

The tour also highlighted the importance of protecting local biodiversity. Discussions around minimizing herbicide and pesticide use reinforced how small choices in the garden can support a healthier ecosystem.

SMWD’s team members guided visitors through practical techniques they could take home, including best practices for composting and mulching, a simple mason jar soil test, and tips for identifying household water leaks. Hands-on activities—like creating succulent cutting pots and culinary rosemary wands—added a creative, memorable element to the experience.

Visitors also observed the cochineal insect on cactus, an ancient and natural source of red dye, connecting sustainable practices to history and culture.

The experience concluded with a picnic lunch and positive reflections from attendees, who described the tour as both educational and enjoyable. The visit also sparked interest in continued collaboration, with hopes for a future visit to Jurupa’s community garden.

Learn more about Santa Margarita Water District at SMWD.com/News.

Kevin Alexander Appointed General Manager for the Inland Empire Utilities Agency

At the Inland Empire Utilities Agency’s (IEUA/Agency) Board Meeting on, April 15, 2026, the Board of Directors appointed Kevin Alexander as its General Manager, effective April 16, 2026.

“I’m honored to step into this role and continue serving our community. Having worked closely with the IEUA team over the last year and a half, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and expertise that drive this Agency forward,” stated Alexander. “Together, I hope to continue to build on that strong foundation to provide reliability, transparency, and sustainable water management for our communities.”

Currently serving as IEUA’s Acting General Manager, Mr. Alexander holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology. He brings over three decades of experience focused on water, wastewater, recycled water planning, engineering, and operations, growing through his career to lead private sector business and public agency management. His broad background is a perfect fit for IEUA’s complex and innovative water supply, wastewater treatment, and recycling programs. Prior to his current role, Mr. Alexander served as IEUA’s Deputy General Manager.

“Kevin brings a wealth of experience and deep knowledge of the Agency’s operations. His leadership and expertise will be invaluable in ensuring stability in the region.” stated IEUA Board President Steve Elie.  “His extensive knowledge and experience in water and resource management will be increasingly valuable in maintaining IEUA’s mission and vision.”

WVWD Hosts STEM Day, Connects with Over 150 High School Students

RIALTO – West Valley Water District (WVWD) hosted over 150 students from both Rialto and Fontana Unified School Districts at its headquarters in Rialto for its Inaugural STEM Day on Friday, April 10, 2026. The event offered students a behind-the-scenes look at the District’s treatment facility, a chance for hands-on experience using District technology, and created opportunities to speak directly to water professionals and learn more about the diverse career paths within the water industry. “We were thrilled to have the opportunity to engage and educate so many young water stewards here at our District,” said WVWD Board President Kelvin Moore. “Our new STEM-focused approach ensures that we are not just providing information to our students but working to meet them where they are and where their interests lie, while creating opportunities to tell our story.” Previously known as Earth Day, WVWD reimagined both the name and the format of the event to better connect with students’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). The event allowed water professionals to connect what they do to these specialized fields and encouraged students to learn more about careers in water. “We’re grateful to both Rialto and Fontana Unified for their partnership and look forward to continued opportunities to help inspire and foster the next generation of water professionals,” said WVWD Board Vice President Angela Garcia. STEM Day illustrates WVWD’s commitment to its community and educating local students on careers in water. Guided by the vision of its Board of Directors and outlined in its Strategic Plan, WVWD is leveraging strategic partnerships with local school districts to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, inspiring students to dive into STEM careers and secure the future of the water industry.

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Since 1952, West Valley Water District has been dedicated to serving the Southern California communities of Bloomington, Colton, Fontana, Rialto, Jurupa Valley and Unincorporated San Bernardino County. Providing water to about 100,000 customers, West Valley is committed to delivering a cost-effective, high-quality water supply. Governed by a five-member, publicly elected board of directors, our mission encompasses strategic water resource planning, effective management, and the development of regional partnerships to ensure sustainable water solutions.  

JCSD Leads the Way with Back-To-Back Honors as Top Workplace in the Inland Empire

JURUPA VALLEY – Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) has once again been recognized as a Top Workplace by the Inland News Group, which includes the Press-Enterprise, the San Bernardino Sun, and the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin. This honor reaffirms the JCSD’s dedication to building a strong internal culture that supports exceptional public service. The Top Workplace designation highlights organizations that prioritize employee engagement, organizational excellence, and effective leadership. Award recipients are determined through an independent, employee-driven survey administered by Energage, which collects anonymous feedback on key workplace attributes, including engagement, satisfaction, and overall workplace experience. “Being recognized again as a Top Workplace speaks directly to the people behind the organization,” said JCSD’s General Manager Chris Berch. “The team is at the heart of JCSD, and this honor reflects a culture built on mutual respect, teamwork, and a shared commitment to serving our communities. We are proud to support a workplace where employees feel valued and empowered to do their best work.” JCSD’s continued recognition as a top employer reinforces the District’s ability to deliver high-quality services that residents rely on every day. From maintaining safe and reliable water infrastructure to supporting parks, recreation, and community programs, JCSD’s employees play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in Eastvale and Jurupa Valley. Being named a Top Workplace for two consecutive years further affirms JCSD’s reputation as both a trusted service provider and an employer of choice in the region.  

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Founded in 1956, the Jurupa Community Services District is an award-winning public agency providing services and programs to Eastvale and Jurupa Valley. It is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of five elected representatives from both cities. Serving over 135,000 people in a 40-square-mile area, JCSD provides a variety of community services and programs, including water, wastewater, streetlights, frontage landscape maintenance, graffiti abatement, and parks and recreation services.

Nelson retires from CVWD Board of Directors after 26 years

Longtime Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) Board Director Peter Nelson has retired after 26 years of public service to pursue other opportunities and plans to remain active in local and statewide water and agricultural issues.

The CVWD Board of Directors honored Nelson at today’s public board meeting with a resolution to thank him for his longstanding dedication, thoughtful stewardship, and contributions to the district and the residents of the Coachella Valley throughout his tenure.

“It’s been an honor to serve CVWD and represent the interests of the entire Coachella Valley to protect and preserve our water resources for the long-term, and I have had the privilege to work alongside outstanding general managers and board directors,” said Nelson. “And thank you to all the staff who are truly exceptional and remain CVWD’s greatest strength.”

Nelson was elected to the CVWD Board in 2000 and served on various committees and boards representing CVWD and its customers for over two decades. He served on the Salton Sea Authority from 2000 to 2014, the California Farm Water Coalition from 2008 to the present, and on the Coachella Valley Resource Conservation District for six years.

In addition, Nelson was appointed by the Governor in 2015 to the Colorado River Board of California, representing CVWD in protecting its water rights and advancing the long‑term reliability of Colorado River supplies for the Coachella Valley. He served an 11-year term and served as Chair from 2018 to 2023, representing CVWD and California’s collective interests while collaborating closely with fellow Lower Basin states, including Arizona and Nevada.

“Peter has been a strong asset to California and this valley, representing us on the Colorado River Board, State Water Project issues, the Sites storage project, and so much more,” said John Powell Jr, CVWD Board President. “His advocacy, knowledge, and relationships have been instrumental in statewide and in Western water issues, but he has also been part of major capital improvement decisions locally that have enhanced long-term water reliability for current and future generations.”

CVWD will publicly post information about the vacancy and outline the process to fill the Board seat.

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Coachella Valley Water District is a public agency governed by a five-member board of directors. CVWD serves the community with domestic water, agricultural irrigation and drainage, wastewater collection and treatment, nonpotable and recycled water, regional stormwater protection, groundwater management, and water conservation programs. It serves approximately 270,000 people across 1,000 square miles, primarily in Riverside County.

SSJID Announces Winners of Seventh Annual Water Awareness Art Contest

MANTECA — The South San Joaquin Irrigation District (SSJID) is proud to announce the winners of its seventh annual water education awareness art contest, themed “Water Makes It Possible.” The contest invited first through fifth grade students from across the region to showcase their creativity while highlighting the essential role water plays in everyday life. This year’s contest received an enthusiastic response, with more than 120 student entries submitted. Participants shared colorful and imaginative artwork illustrating how water supports agriculture, communities, and the environment. The contest is part of SSJID’s ongoing commitment to educating young people about the importance of water resources and responsible stewardship. The grand prize winner will receive the unique honor of having their artwork featured on the tailgates of SSJID irrigation delivery trucks throughout the 2026 water season—bringing student creativity directly into the community and celebrating the importance of water across the District’s service area. 2026 Contest Winners Winners will receive gift cards in recognition of their creative efforts and dedication. In addition, Colony Oak Elementary School will receive a $250 gift card to purchase art supplies for submitting the most entries. “Our students continue to inspire us with their creativity and their understanding of how vital water is to our daily lives,” said SSJID Public and Government Relations Manager, Katie Patterson. “With more than 120 entries this year, it’s clear that our younger generation is engaged and thinking about the importance of water in meaningful ways. Through this contest, we’re celebrating their talent while helping foster a deeper appreciation for the resources that sustain our farms, communities, and future.” SSJID extends its appreciation to all participating students, teachers, and families who helped make this year’s contest a success. By engaging students at an early age, the District aims to build lasting awareness of water’s value and the importance of protecting this critical resource. To learn more about the Water Awareness Art Contest and view winning artwork, please visit: https://www.ssjid.gov/education/vehicle-wrap-art-contest/. About the South San Joaquin Irrigation District (SSJID) The South San Joaquin Irrigation District was established in 1909 and is headquartered in Manteca, California. SSJID provides agricultural irrigation water to approximately 50,000 acres surrounding Escalon, Ripon, and Manteca, and delivers wholesale drinking water to the cities of Manteca, Lathrop, and Tracy— indirectly serving more than 215,000 residents—and in the future, the city of Escalon. SSJID, along with Oakdale Irrigation District, owns and operates the Tri-Dam Project, a series of storage reservoirs and electric generation facilities that produce zero-carbon hydropower in the Stanislaus River watershed.

Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility Decommissioned After More Than Half a Century

SANTEE — The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility was decommissioned on April 8, 2026, following more than 50 years of service in East San Diego County. As a pioneer in water reuse, the facility addressed critical water supply challenges, improved pollution control, and enhanced recreational opportunities at Santee Lakes, serving as a model for sustainable water management both locally and globally. It exemplified the principle that water is too precious to be used just once. Ray Stoyer, former General Manager of the Santee County Water District, paved the way for this award-winning facility and was a true trailblazer in advancing water reuse.

The facility was relocated to its current site just north of Santee Lakes in 1967, laying the foundation for future growth. In 1997, it was renovated to expand its capacity, allowing it to produce up to two million gallons of recycled water per day to support Santee Lakes and other non-potable uses throughout the community.

“The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility has been a cornerstone of water sustainability in East County for more than half a century,” said Kyle Swanson, General Manager and CEO of Padre Dam Municipal Water District. “Its legacy of innovation has set the standard for responsible water reuse. While we honor this incredible facility, we are excited to continue its pioneering spirit with the East County Advanced Water Purification (AWP) Program, providing reliable potable water for our community for generations to come.”

Rob Northcote, Operations Manager for the East County AWP Program, who began his career at the facility in 1997, added, “The Ray Stoyer Water Recycling Facility has always been more than a workplace. I’ve been honored to be part of a facility distinguished by its history, innovation, and depth of expertise. It’s incredibly rewarding to see its legacy continue, as the dedication of those who worked here will help guide the East County AWP Program into the future.”

The East County AWP Program will create a local, sustainable, and drought-proof drinking water supply using state-of-the-art technology to purify recycled water. It will treat up to 16 million gallons of wastewater per day, producing roughly 11.5 million gallons of purified potable water daily- enough to supply up to 30 percent of the region’s drinking water. Once operational, it will be one of California’s first surface water augmentation programs- bridging the region’s legacy to a leading-edge future.

Padre Dam provides water, sewer, recycled water, and recreation services to more than 100,000 residents in East San Diego County including Santee, El Cajon, Lakeside, Flinn Springs, Harbison Canyon, Blossom Valley, Alpine, Dehesa, and Crest. The District is a public agency with policies and procedures directed by an elected five-member Board of Directors. Please visit www.padredam.org for more information or find us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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