Redesigned Website Advances District Commitment to ‘Science of Stewardship’

REDLANDS — The San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District (SBVWCD) has launched a redesigned website at sbvwcd.org as a public platform that embodies the Board of Directors’ governance priorities centered on disciplined decision-making, public access to information, and stewardship grounded in applied science.

Through its Science of Stewardship approach, SBVWCD applies field science, data analysis, and long-term planning to capture stormwater, recharge groundwater basins, and support regional water reliability. The redesigned website provides clear access to the data, project information, and decision-making framework that supports this work and guides engagement with cities, water agencies, environmental partners, educators, and community members.

“This new online presence draws on the district’s history while presenting its expertise and data in ways that serve our broad range of stakeholders,” said SBVWCD Board President Melody McDonald. “It allows the community to see, understand, and engage with the science and systems that protect local water resources and guide our work.”

The website launch is accompanied by a reimagined brand identity that honors the four classical elements of earth, air, fire, and water. The updated logo illustrates the balance SBVWCD applies every day through employee work, policy development, and field-based decision-making. The elements represent the physical systems the district studies, manages, and protects through practical science and disciplined stewardship.

The modernization of SBVWCD.org and the updated brand identity were governance priorities of the Board of Directors in 2025, reinforcing SBVWCD’s responsibility to provide consistent public access to information and support informed stakeholder engagement.

“This platform delivers direct access to daily flow data, project information, and operational work that define how we carry out our mission,” said SBVWCD General Manager Betsy Miller Vixie. “It reflects a disciplined approach to implementation grounded in rigorous field science, measured outcomes, and daily execution.”

Stakeholders, community members, and regional partners are invited to explore the new website at sbvwcd.org.

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About San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District

For more than 100 years, the San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District has worked at the intersection of infrastructure, environment, and community to support local water reliability while preserving open space and biodiversity. Through science-based stewardship and collaborative partnerships, SBVWCD captures stormwater, recharges groundwater basins, and advances solutions that reflect balanced policy, sound decision-making, and responsible resource management across the San Bernardino Valley region.

GWRS Surpasses Half a Trillion Gallons of Purified Water

FOUNTAIN VALLEY – The Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS) has reached a major production milestone of half a trillion gallons of purified water as it marks 18 years of service this month. A joint project of the Orange County Water District (OCWD) and the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San), the GWRS is the world’s largest advanced water purification system for indirect potable reuse, reducing dependence on imported supplies and strengthening water reliability for Orange County.

“OCWD and OC San invested early in critical water reuse and recharge infrastructure, and Orange County has reaped the benefits for 18 years,” said OCWD President Denis R. Bilodeau, P.E. “Surpassing half a trillion gallons is an achievement that underscores the role of the GWRS in turning a once-wasted resource into a reliable, locally controlled drinking water supply for the communities we serve.”

The GWRS purifies highly treated wastewater using a three-step treatment process of microfiltration, reverse osmosis and ultraviolet light with hydrogen peroxide. The result is high-quality water that is pumped to recharge basins in Anaheim where it naturally percolates into the Orange County Groundwater Basin, managed by OCWD, and becomes part of the drinking water supply for 2.5 million people in north and central Orange County. GWRS water is also pumped into injection wells located along the Orange County coastline to create a seawater intrusion barrier that protects groundwater supplies.

Operational since 2008, the GWRS completed its initial expansion in 2015, increasing production from 70 million gallons per day (MGD) to 100 MGD. With its final expansion in 2023, the system now recycles 100% of OC San’s reclaimable wastewater flows and produces up to 130 MGD — enough to serve 1 million people.

“Reaching half a trillion gallons is a powerful reminder of what long-term vision and operational excellence can achieve,” said OC San Board Chairman Ryan Gallagher. “By investing in advanced treatment and infrastructure, OC San ensures every drop of reclaimable water is put to its highest and best use. This milestone reflects our commitment to protecting public health, strengthening water resilience, and delivering sustainable solutions for Orange County today and for generations to come.”

Over the years, GWRS water has become a primary source for replenishing the groundwater basin and has enabled OCWD’s 19 cities and local water retailers to pump more water from the basin. The GWRS also decreases the need to purchase costly imported water from northern California and the Colorado River, contributing to a more cost-effective and drought-resilient water supply for the region.

As part of OCWD and OC San’s public education efforts to build understanding and acceptance of potable reuse, the agencies have distributed thousands of bottles of GWRS water. California Assembly Bill 2022 allows advanced purified water to be bottled and distributed at no cost for educational purposes, and OCWD and OC San were the first in the Western Hemisphere to do so. The agencies will introduce newly labeled GWRS bottled water at tours and other outreach events to support their continued commitment to water education.

For more information, OCWD invites the public to book a facility tour, watch an on-demand general or technical tour video, or visit the GWRS website.

Helix Water District Nominated for a 2026 East County Honors Award

This past week, the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce announced the nominations for the 114th Annual East County Honors Awards and Helix Water District is a nominee in the environmental stewardship category.

This annual event recognizes East County businesses and organizations for outstanding customer service, leadership and making a positive contribution to East County communities. The public selects the nominees and votes for the winners. Voting closes on February 8 and winners will be announced on February 28.

“We don’t know who nominated us, but I think I know why,” said Helix Water District Board President Kathleen Coates-Hedberg. “Leadership. Last year, we led a multi-agency effort to restore the governance, management and financial health of The Water Conservation Garden. The Garden is the one place where San Diegans can experience the beauty of water efficient plants and trees. It is an important and cherished resource.”

Helix also received Green Business certification in 2025 from the California Green Business Network and the City of La Mesa. The recognition is based on how the district manages energy, pollution prevention, solid waste, transportation, wastewater, water and community.

“But that’s not all we did last year,” said Coates-Hedberg. “The board and staff at Helix look for the sustainable solution to every task and project while always considering the fiscal impact on our customers.”

Environmental Stewardship – Energy
Last year, Helix began transforming its Nat L. Eggert Operations Center to meet California’s advanced clean fleets regulation. In March, the district will complete a first-of-its-kind, state-of-the-art charging infrastructure — the largest medium and heavy-duty fleet charging installation in California. Helix received over $10 million in grant funding to complete the $11 million project – ensuring that the project had minimal impact on water rates. The charging system will support the district’s transition to a zero-emissions operations fleet and serve as a regional charging hub for other public agencies.

The new charging system is not the district’s first step towards sustainability. The operations fleet currently runs on 100% renewable diesel, which reduced the district’s carbon emissions by an estimated 500 metric tons per year. And rooftop solar panels help to power the operations center.

Helix buys its electricity through a power purchase agreement. Helix customers have benefitted from double-digit cost savings, as high as 18%, on electric commodity costs for the last several years and the district has secured the renewable energy supply it needs through 2030.

Managing lighting and heating ventilation and air conditioning in all its facilities has also made a difference. In 2023, the Climate Registry recognized Helix as a Water-Energy Leader Gold organization for reducing the district’s electric use by 15% and greenhouse gas emissions by 40%.

Environmental Stewardship – Water
In late 2026, the East County Advanced Water Purification Program will come online. The program is a collaborative effort between Padre Dam Municipal Water District, the City of El Cajon and the County of San Diego to create a new, local, drought-proof water supply. Helix will be the customer and the exceptionally clean water will meet up to 30% of the district’s needs. Helix will put the purified water in Lake Jennings, treat it at its treatment plant and distribute it.

AWP stands for advanced water purification. It’s a treatment process like desalination, but for recycled water instead of ocean water. It’s been used for decades in California and around the world. State of California regulations dictate operations and safeguards at every step.

The environmental benefits of East County AWP are clear. It will reduce the district’s dependence on shrinking snowpacks in the Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountains and bolster its water supply when drought grips California and the Southwest. This is why 36 other AWP projects are in development across California.

Helix customers are paying for the water, not the project. Helix will buy the water East County AWP produces at a slightly lower price than it pays for imported water. The discount is East County AWP reimbursing Helix for its own construction to prepare for this new water supply.

In 2023, The San Diego Architectural Foundation honored Helix with an Orchid Award for ‘Landscape Architecture’ for its WaterSmart Demonstration Garden, which is located at its offices in La Mesa. A key requirement for the design of the gardens was that all of the plants selected had to be accessible to the public at local nurseries.

And, since the 1990s, Helix has taught each new generation of customers the benefits of water efficiency, promoted the adoption of high-efficiency appliances and irrigation, and encouraged the use of climate-appropriate landscaping. In 1994, Helix customers used, on average, 142 gallons of water per person, per day. Last year, customers used 90 gallons per day.

Thank You
“I’d like to thank the individual who nominated Helix,” said Coates-Hedberg. “…and encourage everyone in East County to look for ways that they too can be environmental stewards.”

A New Era Begins: WVWD Opens the Doors to Its New Headquarters

Brought to life after years of vision and persistence, Walnut Valley Water District (WVWD) is proud to announce the opening of its brand-new headquarters on Monday, January 26, 2026 – a modern, purpose-built space designed to serve the community with greater efficiency, transparency, and heart.

The facility is the first milestone in a three-phase project that showcases WVWD’s commitment to thoughtful planning, long-term vision, and environmental stewardship. The next phases include the construction of a new Operations & Maintenance building, followed by a California-friendly community drought-tolerant garden—a space for education and environmental engagement.

“Our new headquarters sets the foundation for how we serve our community for decades to come,” said Sherry Shaw, General Manager. “Opening our doors is more than just moving into a new building it’s about creating a space where our team and our community can thrive together. I’m incredibly proud of the collaboration that made this possible.”

Designed using land already owned by the District, the new headquarters represents a major investment in service and sustainability without expanding WVWD’s physical footprint. From the layout to the furniture, the entire project reflects a shared vision – employees from every department played a role in selecting materials, assembling furniture, helping with the move, and most importantly, creating a workspace that fosters unity and well-being.

“This is the result of careful planning, dedicated teamwork, and strong partnerships with our vendors and contractors,” said Bertha Perez, Director of Engineering, who helped lead the multi-year effort. “We designed this facility to be built for the future – resilient, efficient, and welcoming.”

“What I’m most proud of is how involved our staff has been,” added Manny Rodriguez, Water and Maintenance Facility Manager. “This building feels like home because we built it together – every department team had a hand in making it happen.”

The water community is invited to join WVWD for an official ribbon-cutting celebration on Tuesday, March 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The event will include tours, refreshments, and a look ahead at what’s next for the District.

“This new space represents the spirit of our organization,” Shaw added. “It’s functional, welcoming, and built on a foundation of shared values. And we’re just getting started.”

For more information and to RSVP for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, contact Lily Lopez, APR at llopez@walnutvalleywater.gov

Apply Now for ACWA 2026 Spring Awards

ACWA member agencies can apply now for three prestigious awards recognizing agency and individual excellence in the water industry. Winners will be honored in front of their peers at ACWA’s Spring Conference & Expo in Sacramento or the Washington DC Conference.

Clair A. Hill Water Agency Award for Excellence: Sponsored by Jacobs, this award recognizes exemplary projects and programs in water resources management, including capital improvements, water quality, watershed or ecosystem restoration, renewable energy and more. Applications must be submitted electronically using ACWA’s easy-to-use online award system by Monday, March 2 at 5 p.m.

Excellence in Water Leadership Award: Sponsored by Black & Veatch, this award recognizes individuals or groups who have made remarkable and visible contributions to the enhancement, protection or development of water resources in California. The Excellence in Water Leadership Award nomination form is available on the ACWA website and must be submitted via email by Monday, March 2 at 5 p.m.

Special Outreach Award: Most Effective Agency on a Federal Issue: This annual outreach award was established to recognize ACWA member agencies that engage on federal issues as prioritized by the ACWA Federal Affairs Committee. Applicants for this award must submit a Special Outreach Awards entry form via email by Monday, Feb. 2 at 5 p.m.

More information about these awards is available at acwa.com/awards.

ACWA Opens Search for Executive Director

SACRAMENTO — ACWA today opened a renewed nationwide recruitment process for hiring an Executive Director to lead the association’s day-to-day management.

The ACWA Board of Directors in late 2025 selected Bob Murray & Associates to lead the recruitment process, and ACWA has posted a job announcement with a March 8 deadline to receive applications.

In the meantime, Marwan Khalifa continues to serve as Interim Executive Director, a position he has held since early 2025. Khalifa previously worked as Chief Financial Officer and District Treasurer for Mesa Water District, also serving on the ACWA Board, Executive Committee and as Chair of ACWA’s Finance Committee.

Last year, the Board conducted a nationwide search to identify potential candidates for the role. Following a thorough and thoughtful review, the Board determined that additional time would best serve the association’s long-term interests.

Board Rotation Ensures Continued Leadership, Fiscal Responsibility, and Service

• President: Lona Williams, Division 2
• Vice President: Andy Ramirez, Division 1
• Secretary: David Hoffman, Division 5
• Treasurer: John Covington, Division 4
• Director: Daniel Slawson, Division 3

Latinas in Water Launches with Inaugural Gathering at Walnut Valley Water District

Latinas in Water, a newly formed community, will officially launch with its inaugural gathering on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Walnut Valley Water District. Held in honor of Latina History Day (March 6), the event brings together Latina professionals across the water industry to connect, build community, and give back.

The morning gathering will feature networking, mentorship, and a hands-on service project assembling college readiness kits for first-generation college students. Attendees will also learn more about the mission of Latinas in Water and upcoming opportunities to get involved.

Latinas in Water was created to provide intentional space for Latina professionals in the water sector to uplift one another, cultivate leadership, and strengthen connections while making a positive impact in the communities they serve. The organization aims to expand across California and eventually nationwide through regional events and partnerships.

About Latinas in Water

Latinas in Water exists to create a supportive and intentional community for Latinas in the water industry—where we can celebrate who we are, amplify each other’s voices, and open doors for the next generation.

We are here to:

• Build a safe and uplifting space rooted in authenticity and cultural connection.

• Cultivate mentorship, leadership, and visibility for Latinas in every corner of the water sector.

• Give back to our communities through service, education, and collaboration.

We’re not here to check boxes – we’re here to build legacy.

Planning Committee

This inaugural event is made possible through the leadership and support of the Latinas in Water Planning Committee:

• Lily Lopez, APR (Founder), Walnut Valley Water District
• Vanessa Campos Moya, Jurupa Community Services District
• Gabriela Sanchez, Rowland Water District
• Elisabeth Mendez, Rowland Water District 
• Jen Vasquez, Calleguas Municipal Water District
• Dani Morgutia, CalWEP
• Brianna De La Cruz, Yorba Linda Water District
• Janett Robledo, East Valley Water District

Anthony J. Lima Named Board President as District Announces New Leadership

The Rowland Water District (RWD) Board of Directors is pleased to announce new leadership assignments and committee appointments for the coming year. The five-member elected Board, composed of Directors Anthony J. Lima, Vanessa Hsu, Robert W. Lewis, Szu Pei Lu-Yang, and John E. Bellah, collectively brings decades of public service and diverse professional expertise to the governance of RWD.

Mr. Anthony J. Lima has been selected to serve as Board President. President Lima has been a dedicated member of the Rowland Water District Board of Directors since 1995, bringing nearly three decades of experience and community service to this leadership role. He actively participates in various district committees and water-related organizations, and has extensive experience in local business ownership, having previously operated a trucking company in Fontana.

“Serving as Board President is both a privilege and a responsibility to represent the voices of our customers,” said President Lima. “Every decision we make at the Board level directly impacts the families and businesses we serve. I am committed to ensuring that our district not only delivers safe, reliable water but also remains accountable and responsive to the community that depends on us.”

Ms. Vanessa Hsu will continue to serve RWD as Vice President, providing continuity and stability to the Board’s operations. Director Hsu was appointed to the Board in 2021 and elected to the position in 2022. A passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, she is dedicated to preserving natural resources and supports initiatives that promote water conservation, sustainable living, and environmental responsibility.

The Board has also approved committee and agency representation assignments for the coming year. Director Robert W. Lewis, the longest-serving Board member who joined in December 1993, will continue to represent RWD on the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) Region 8 Committee and will serve on the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo). A proud U.S. Army Veteran, Director Lewis has been instrumental in representing RWD at key regional organizations throughout his more than 30 years of service.

Director Szu Pei Lu-Yang, who has served on the Board since 2006, will represent the District on the ACWA/Joint Powers Insurance Authority (JPIA), with Director Hsu serving as alternate. Director Lu-Yang is a resident of Rowland Heights and a graduate of UCLA, where she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree with honors in Political Science and Business Administration. She is a partner at Graves & King, LLP, where she represents the firm in the defense of public entities as well as tort and environmental litigation matters.

Director John E. Bellah, who has been a dedicated Board member since 2008, will serve as RWD’s alternate representative to ACWA and as district representative on the Rowland Heights Coordinating Council. A long-time resident of Rowland Heights with over 60 years of residency in the San Gabriel Valley, Director Bellah is deeply committed to the well-being and growth of his community. He will also represent RWD on the California Special District Association (CSDA) San Gabriel Valley Chapter.

Each member of the Board of Directors brings unique strengths and perspectives to their service. Together they form a cohesive team dedicated to ensuring RWD’s continued excellence in water service delivery, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement.

These committee assignments ensure that RWD maintains strong representation across regional water agencies and community organizations, enabling the district to effectively advocate for the interests of its customers and the communities it serves.

For more information about Rowland Water District and for a complete list of all committee assignments, visit www.rwd.org.

Friant Water Authority Announces Johnny Amaral as Chief Executive Officer

LINDSAY — Friant Water Authority (FWA) announced today the appointment of Johnny Amaral as its new Chief Executive Officer, following years of service and leadership within the organization.

Amaral joined Friant Water Authority in March 2019 as Chief of External Affairs and was appointed Chief Operating Officer in early 2022. In these roles, he has overseen FWA personnel and day-to-day operations, while leading FWA’s engagement on water supply reliability, water policy, legislative advocacy, and communications. As Chief Executive Officer, Amaral will focus on protecting the Friant water supply, safeguarding critical infrastructure such as the Friant-Kern Canal, strengthening trusted partnerships across the region, and leading FWA’s experienced and dedicated team.

“We welcome Johnny in his new role as he brings a strong understanding of Friant operations, water policy, and the needs of Valley farmers and communities,” said Rick Borges, Chairman of the Friant Water Authority Board of Directors.

During his time at FWA, Amaral has played a central role in advancing initiatives critical to the region’s water future. His work has included expanding opportunities for groundwater recharge for San Joaquin Valley farmers and leading the Friant-Kern Canal Capacity Correction Project as FWA’s staff lead on construction activities. In this role, Amaral has worked to secure funding and develop partnerships to support long-term repairs to this vital facility, helping protect both water deliveries and the communities that rely on them.

Amaral has also led FWA’s efforts to build and maintain strong working relationships with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, community representatives, farm bureaus, commodity groups, advocacy organizations, and other water agencies, recognizing collaboration as essential to achieving long-term water sustainability in the San Joaquin Valley.

Prior to joining Friant Water Authority, Amaral served as Deputy General Manager for External Affairs at Westlands Water District for more than four years. He began his career in public service as Chief of Staff to Congressman Devin Nunes, where he worked on water and public policy matters for over 13 years.

A native of Tulare, Amaral lives in Exeter, California with his wife, Stephanie. They have two children: Taylor, a senior at Baylor University, and John Tomas, a sophomore at San Diego State University.