New PFAS Treatment Facility Enhances Orange County’s Drinking Water Supply
ORANGE – The Orange County Water District (OCWD) and Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) commemorated the completion and operation of a new treatment system that removes PFAS from local groundwater. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the milestone and highlighted the agencies’ partnership to proactively protect water quality and public health.
The facility in Orange uses ion exchange technology to remove PFAS from groundwater pumped from Orange Park Acres Well Number 1 (OPA-1). The system can purify up to 3,200 gallons of water per minute, providing enough clean drinking water to serve about 14,000 households in IRWD’s service area.
“Bringing the well back online strengthens our local water supply,” IRWD President Doug Reinhart said. “This investment reflects IRWD’s dedication to delivering safe and reliable water to our customers.”
Since 2019, OCWD, in partnership with local groundwater producers such as IRWD, has led one of the nation’s most ambitious regional PFAS treatment programs. Despite playing no role in releasing PFAS into the environment, they have collaboratively addressed PFAS in the Orange County Groundwater Basin, which supplies up to 85% of the drinking water for 2.5 million people in north and central Orange County. OCWD is funding the design and construction of these facilities, as well as half of the ongoing operation and maintenance costs, while the groundwater producers operate the facilities.
“OCWD is proud to partner with agencies like IRWD to implement solutions that protect our groundwater and ensure a resilient water supply,” said Denis Bilodeau, board president of OCWD. “This project demonstrates the power of regional collaboration and our shared commitment to protecting water quality for generations to come.”
The drinking water IRWD provides to its customers is safe and meets all water quality standards set by the state and federal governments. That includes new PFAS standards set for 2029 by the U.S. EPA in April 2024. IRWD already meets those standards, five years ahead of the deadline.
OPA-1 received partial funding from the State Water Resources Control Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, demonstrating continued state and federal support for innovative, community-based water infrastructure initiatives. To date, the State Board has provided OCWD with a total of $38.5 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to contribute to the funding for PFAS treatment facilities.
“With increasing data substantiating the need to eliminate PFAS from our drinking water, the State Water Board is moving quickly to support projects like the one we are marking here today,” said State Water Board Chair E. Joaquin Esquivel. “Of the $269 million we’ve received so far from the BIL to combat emerging contaminants, we’ve provided $103 million for projects benefitting 1.4 million people statewide, with dozens more applications in process. I thank OCWD for leading the way here in Orange County to leverage this general funding for the benefit of local communities.”
“We at EPA are proud to celebrate the Irvine Ranch and Orange County water districts’ achievement in making tap water safe for over 14,000 households,” said EPA Deputy Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest Cheree Peterson. “This success, funded through EPA and our partnership with the State of California, demonstrates the powerful impact of federal resources meeting local action.”
For more information on OCWD’s PFAS treatment program, visit pfas.ocwd.com.
The Orange County Water District manages the local groundwater basin that supplies water to 2.5 million people in north and central Orange County. For more information about OCWD, please visit www.ocwd.com and follow @OCWaterDistrict on social media.
Irvine Ranch Water District provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, drought-proof recycled water, and natural urban runoff treatment to residents and businesses in Irvine and portions of Costa Mesa, Lake Forest, Newport Beach, Orange, Tustin and unincorporated Orange County. For more information, visit www.irwd.com/pfas.
Kern County Subbasin Avoids Probation Under SGMA
SACRAMENTO – The State Water Resources Control Board on Sept. 17 approved a resolution to return the Kern County Groundwater Subbasin to the Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) jurisdiction under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), ending the possibility of probation for the subbasin in the state intervention process.
The State Water Board’s vote came after substantial public comment during a hearing for the board to decide whether to designate the subbasin as probationary. The board postponed this decision in February to allow groundwater sustainability agencies more time to finalize significant progress in their sustainability plans.
A staff review of local agencies’ new plans, submitted in June, found that the subbasin’s 20 agencies substantially, but not completely, addressed deficiencies in prior plans to achieve groundwater sustainability goals by 2040. Among the new provisions that fully address prior deficiencies, the plans now include basin-wide approaches to setting appropriate management criteria for groundwater levels and quality. It also ramps down subsidence prior to 2040, with no additional subsidence after 2040.
“We applaud the progress that the Kern County Subbasin’s groundwater agencies have made with their latest plans towards meeting sustainability goals,” said State Water Board Chair E. Joaquin Esquivel. “The subbasin is the largest and one of the most important in the state, and the good coordination among local agencies toward a successful resolution of issues in their plans is a model for how achieving sustainability under SGMA is designed to work. The State Water Board is here to partner with the subbasin as it begins the critical work of implementation.”
September 19, 2025 ACWA News Available
Read the September 19 edition of ACWA News for informative articles about the association and water industry.
Articles include:
- ACWA Legislative Advocacy Helps Secure Wins on Key Water Bills
- Toolkit Available to Help Agencies Celebrate Water Professionals Appreciation Week
- EMWD Marks 75 Years of Growth, Service and Success
- Members Riff on Taylor Swift News to Reach Customers on Social Media
From Small Beginnings to One of California’s Largest Water Agencies
EMWD employees and Board members take part in one of many events recognizing their district’s 75th anniversary.
EMWD Celebrates 75 Years
Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) celebrates 75 years of transformational growth in 2025 and has the history, photos and even a few original customers to tell its story.
Starting as a small, largely agricultural provider, EMWD began operating in 1950 primarily to augment local supplies with Colorado River water conveyed by Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). It has since grown into California’s sixth largest retail water agency by service area — 682 square miles — populated by nearly one million people in western Riverside County and northern San Diego County.
As early as 1953, EMWD’s hometown of Perris reaped the benefits of the district’s hard work when it was the first city to be served with water from the Colorado River, a complex feat that guided the shape and prosperity of the surrounding regional community.
In addition to its retail operations, EMWD also supplies water on a wholesale basis to the cities of Hemet and San Jacinto, as well as Fallbrook Public Utility District, Lake Hemet Municipal Water District, Nuevo Water Company, Rancho California Water District, Rainbow Public Utilities District and Western Municipal Water District.
EMWD’s early leaders were interested in seeing their community thrive and knew they needed to plan accordingly for the community they envisioned. For example, in 1962, EMWD leadership outlined a plan to take care of sanitation needs that stretched 25-30 years into the future.
These founding leaders set the tone for how EMWD’s leadership thinks and acts today. While they understood the need to improve services and infrastructure, they did so using the newest technology and with an understanding that an investment today could help customers save money in the long run.
Today EMWD manages a diverse water supply portfolio that spans local groundwater supplies, recycled water and desalination efforts, while it receives approximately half of its water supply from MWD through the Colorado River Aqueduct and State Water Project.
Along the way, EMWD leaders actively participated in ACWA. Longtime EMWD Board member Randy Record served as ACWA President during the 2012-’13 term, and today ACWA Board of Directors member Jolene Walsh chairs ACWA’s Federal Affairs Committee.
EMWD’s steady growth into one of California’s leading water providers in terms of size, as well as its diverse capabilities, provided a great opportunity to engage its community throughout the 2025 diamond anniversary.
In April, the district hosted an open house at its Perris headquarters inviting customers to engage with staff while learning more about their water and wastewater systems. The family-oriented event featured food trucks and booths hosted by the UC Riverside Master Gardeners, Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District, Cal Fire, Mt. San Jacinto College and the Hemet Unified School District Career Technical Education program.
EMWD also connected with customers through a photo contest and sought out residents who had relied on its water since its founding, asking them to share their stories through an online form. Among the responses, a woman who remembered her father building their home in Quail Valley, now part of the City of Menifee, in 1950. She later inherited the home and lives there today.
“EMWD supplied the water then and still does today,” she wrote.
The statement looks simple. The history that makes it possible is anything but. EMWD has thrived on its ability to adapt and look ahead despite dramatic changes between the time of its founding and the challenges of its present.
“EMWD’s history is rich with examples of how hard work and strategic planning have ensured consistent delivery of water, wastewater and recycled water services,” said EMWD Board President Stephen J. Corona. “Our commitment to quality is driven by a vision to improve the health of our community, and our customers, both today and for future generations.”
SMWD’s ‘Plan to Plant’ Event Delivers Inspiration & Firewise Information
There was a buzz in the Water Works Garden at Santa Margarita Water District on Saturday morning as nearly 100 community members gathered at Santa Margarita Water District’s Plan to Plant Garden Expo — a free event dedicated to helping customers create beautiful, low-maintenance, and fire-safe landscapes that make the most of every drop of water.
Attendees explored how to transform their yards into water-wise sanctuaries — with expert-led demonstrations, hands-on education, and real-world advice they could apply immediately.
Whether you were a seasoned gardener or just getting started with your first succulent, this event offered something for everyone.
A Warm Welcome, and a Firewise Focus
The morning began with a friendly welcome from Amelia Herndon-Steen SMWD’s Water Use Efficiency Manager, who set the tone for a relaxed and engaging day of learning and inspiration.
Then Andrew Amante, an inspector with the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), delivered an eye-opening presentation on how homeowners can stay in compliance with AB 3074, the new regulation requiring defensible space for properties in Very High Hazard Fire Severity Zones. He explained what inspectors look for — from vegetation clearance to home hardening — and how small changes can significantly impact safety.
Following the talk, guests split into groups. One joined Andrew for a mock inspection, while the other participated in a live pruning demonstration led by Wendy Proud of the Kinship League.
Pruning, Plants, and Practical Takeaways
Wendy Proud from the Kinship League provided a demonstration that offered hands-on tips for pruning, improving plant health while aligning with fire-safe landscaping guidelines. Meanwhile, Andrew’s inspection walk-through took attendees through real examples of what’s in — and out — of compliance in a garden setting.
One highlight of the day was a live demo showing the replacement of a non-compliant garden section with a fire-compliant one — complete with OCFA-approved pots from Steven’s Garden and fire-resistant plant selections. Guests got to see exactly what a smart, safe transition could look like in their own homes.
Later, Tom Jesch of Waterwise Botanicals shared his expertise on fire-resistant plant choices from his nursery. Not only were these options stunning, but they’re also built to thrive in our Southern California climate — with low water needs and high curb appeal.
And finally, Steven’s Garden provided inspiration for adding stylish, fire-safe pots and materials that elevate a landscape without compromising safety.
Opportunity Drawings, Real Change, and Community Connections
The event concluded with a plant giveaway, during which 15 lucky participants took home a plant to help kick-start or expand their firewise gardens.
One attendee shared, “The workshop was well-organized, and the information was clear, usable, and relevant. I was lucky enough to win a plant, which inspired us to go home, remove the mulch next to our house, and plant the succulent we received, along with some of the available cuttings. With the help of SMWD, we’re enjoying our new look and feeling much better that we have a landscape that is more fire-resistant.”
That’s exactly what the Water Use Efficiency team at SMWD hoped to accomplish — to empower residents with resources, guidance, and inspiration to make lasting changes that benefit both their homes and the planet.
SMWD is committed to supporting our community with tools, classes, and personalized help to make water-efficient, fire-safe landscaping not only achievable — but enjoyable.
To learn more about upcoming workshops, rebates, and landscaping tips, visit smwd.com/events and smwd.com/rebates.
“Thanks to everyone who attended and made the day such a success — and to our incredible partners at OCFA, Kinship League, Waterwise Botanicals, and Steven’s Garden for their knowledge and passion,” said Herndon-Steen.
Learn more about Santa Margarita Water District at SMWD.com/News.
SMWD Recognized for Financial Excellence and Transparency
Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) has once again been honored with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). This award recognizes the District’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.EMWD Recognized for Longstanding Commitment to Financial Excellence
PERRIS – Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) has been recognized for the 21st consecutive year for its commitment to financial transparency.
The honor is bestowed by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), which presents the Certificate for Excellence in Financial Reporting Award each year to agencies that demonstrate outstanding achievement in government accounting and financial reporting. EMWD received the honor for its 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).
To be eligible for the honor, an agency must demonstrate excellence in financial transparency by publishing a report that is both accessible and meticulously organized, while adhering to generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal standards.
The GFOA is a non-profit organization which promotes financial transparency, best practices, professional development, and practical research for its 25,000 members.
EMWD is a AAA-rated organization and has earned praise from rating agencies and industry organizations for its rate structure, commitment to securing external funding, and its sound financial practices. These efforts ensure EMWD provides exceptional value for its customers.
“Our customers have entrusted us as stewards of their funds, and we are committed to using those funds in a responsible and transparent manner,” EMWD Board President Stephen Corona said. “This honor from the GFOA is a result of that longstanding commitment by our organization.”
EMWD’s annual financial reports may be viewed here.
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Eastern Municipal Water District is the water, wastewater service and recycled water provider to nearly one million people living and working within a 682-square mile service area in western Riverside County and northern San Diego County. It is California’s sixth-largest retail water agency, and its mission is “To deliver value to our diverse customers and the communities we serve by providing safe, reliable, economical and environmentally sustainable water, wastewater and recycled water services.” More information can be found at www.emwd.org.
CARB to Hold Workshop on Advanced Clean Fleets
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is holding a workshop Sept. 25 to provide a forum to address Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation amendments needed to accommodate AB 1594, the 2023 legislation that requires greater flexibility for public agencies faced with challenges in transitioning to zero-emission vehicles.
ACWA is encouraging members to provide oral comments in person; however, there is a virtual option available if necessary. An ACWA handout includes recommended talking points for individual comments and information on how to attend and provide comments.
ACWA submitted written comments to CARB on Sept. 15 and plans to attend the workshop and provide oral comments. In an effort to help educate CARB staff about compliance challenges presented by the ACF regulation, ACWA staff continues to coordinate in-person field meetings at water agencies throughout the state. CARB staff has visited six member agencies and the next visit is scheduled for later this month.
A Sept. 17 ACWA Regulatory Alert contains more information. Member login is required.
State Water Board Cancels Bay-Delta Plan Update Hearing
SACRAMENTO — The State Water Resources Control Board on Sept. 16 canceled its previously scheduled public hearing on Sept. 24-25 regarding its draft Sacramento/Delta update to the Bay-Delta Plan Update. The written comment period was also canceled. Both will be rescheduled at a future date, according to a State Water Board notice.
ACWA had distributed a Sept. 10 Regulatory Alert urging ACWA members to attend the hearing and show their support for the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes (HRL) Program. ACWA is a long-standing supporter of the HRL Program as the best approach to protecting, restoring and enhancing the Bay-Delta.
For links to the Alert and more background, visit acwa.com.