DWR Accepting Comments on Draft Subsidence Management Document
SACRAMENTO – For almost a century, parts of California have been gradually sinking, impacting critical infrastructure and the communities who rely on it. Recognizing this challenge, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) has released a draft Best Management Practices document for public comment that will help local water agencies address this growing concern and support groundwater reliant communities.
Once finalized following public review, the document will serve as a guide for groundwater managers on the basics of subsidence, how to best manage it, and available technical assistance. This document does not replace any existing, local, state, or federal regulations, but serves as a resource that local agencies can add to their water management toolkit.
DWR is accepting public comments on the draft Best Management Practices document until Sept. 22. Interested parties are strongly encouraged to submit comments and attend upcoming in-person meetings held in Delano on Sept. 9, Clovis on Sept. 10 and Willows on Sept. 11. These meetings will include an overview of the draft document and serve as a venue to ask questions and provide public comments.
More information can be found on DWR’s Public Notice webpage and a DWR news release.
July 25, 2025 ACWA News Available
Read the July 25 edition of ACWA News for informative articles about the association and water industry.
Articles include:
- ACWA Staff Organizes Educational Tours on Advanced Clean Fleets Impacts
- Feature Highlights Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Projects Delivering Results
- Leadership Column: Apply for an ACWA Committee, Build California Water’s Future
- Capitol Corner: Where Key Water Bills Stand During Legislature’s Summer Recess
Mojave Water Agency celebrates 65 Years of Service
APPLE VALLEY — In tribute to six and a half decades of service, the Mojave Water Agency (MWA) hosted a special 65th Anniversary Bench Dedication Ceremony today, July 24, 2025, at its headquarters in Apple Valley. The event, which followed the regularly scheduled Board of Directors meeting, brought together board members, staff, community leaders, and local dignitaries to honor the Agency’s legacy of water stewardship.
“Since our founding in 1960, MWA has been entrusted with the stewardship of the High Desert’s most precious resource—water,” said Board President Rick Roelle. “We’re here today because of decades of dedication from our board, staff, and community partners.”
President Roelle delivered an inspiring anniversary address reflecting on the Agency’s journey from its founding as one of California’s 29 State Water Contractors to its present-day leadership in groundwater management, infrastructure development, and regional sustainability. He emphasized the value of institutional knowledge and teamwork, citing long-serving board members and staff who have shaped the Agency’s success. “Today’s accomplishments are the result of yesterday’s vision and years of unwavering dedication,” said Roelle.
Guests also heard presentations and received proclamations from local dignitaries, acknowledging the Agency’s positive impact across the Mojave region. The program concluded outdoors in the Conservation Demonstration Garden, where President Roelle led the dedication of a newly installed bench commemorating MWA’s 65-year legacy.
“This bench is more than a place to rest,” said Roelle during the outdoor remarks. “It’s a symbol of our mission, our journey, and our commitment to education, conservation, and community.”
For more information about the Mojave Water Agency and its 65-year history of service to the High Desert, visit www.mojavewater.org.
Projects Aligned with Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program Producing Results
The Tuolumne River near the Old La Grange Bridge. Photo courtesy of Turlock Irrigation District
ACWA has long supported the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes (HRL) Program as the preferred pathway for updating the state’s Bay-Delta Plan for the Sacramento River and its tributaries, as opposed to an approach based solely on a percentage of flows.
Previously known as the Voluntary Agreements, the HRL Program includes habitat enhancement projects coupled with more water for fish and wildlife, managed in a collaborative, science-based manner. It is supported by federal, state, and local water leaders and represents a modern and holistic approach to improving the Bay-Delta ecosystem and water supply reliability.
The State Water Resources Control Board is expected to approve an update to the Bay-Delta Plan in the near future. However, many projects called for under the HRL Program have already been completed or are underway and delivering measurable results, increasing the potential for recovering healthy fish populations.
Three projects that are part of the HRL Program are outlined below.
Tuolumne River Mainstem Channel Restoration Upstream of Old La Grange Bridge Project
With this project, Modesto Irrigation District (MID), Turlock Irrigation District (TID), and the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) provided more than 7.5 acres of mainstem restoration, more than 2.5 acres of floodplain habitat and more than 50,000 cubic yards of spawning gravel. These actions are expected to result in a five-fold increase of trout and salmon habitat upstream of Old La Grange Bridge.
Spawning habitats were created by cleaning, washing, and returning gravel originally removed from the river during the Gold Rush to the lower Tuolumne River in the form of riffles and gravel bars. In addition to the creation of spawning habitat, large wood features and boulder clusters were added to increase in-channel habitat complexity and diversity.
The project began in June 2024 and was completed four months later in mid-October. The total cost of the project was estimated at $7.8 million, which includes a grant from the California Department Fish and Wildlife, along with MID, TID and the SFPUC’s self-funded commitment of $2.3 million. The project was successfully completed under budget and is an example of the multiple restoration projects included in the districts’ and SFPUC’s HRL Program work.
Middle Creek Gravel Project
The Middle Creek Gravel Project was completed in the winter of 2024 with cooperation from Sacramento River Settlement Contract partners: Glenn-Colusa Irrigation District, Reclamation District 108, Sutter Mutual Water Company, and River Garden Farms, as well as the Tehama-Colusa Canal Authority. The gravel injection created critical spawning habitat for salmon south of Keswick Dam.
Lower American River Salmonid Habitat Enhancement Program
The American River Salmonid Habitat Enhancement Program is an ongoing program created to address habitat reduction and fisheries decline in the lower American River.
Program objectives consist of increasing the quantity and quality of spawning and juvenile rearing habitat for fall-run Chinook salmon and Central Valley steelhead. This ongoing effort is made possible by continued collaboration between the Sacramento Water Forum, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (as part of their Central Valley Project Improvement Act Habitat Restoration Grant Program). Since its inception in 2010, this program has created more than 30 acres of spawning beds, 1.2 miles of side channels, and has placed 92,000 cubic yards of spawning gravel.
For more information about the HRL program, including background and a timeline, visit acwa.com by scanning the accompanying QR code.
Help Build California Water’s Future, Apply to Serve on an ACWA Committee
Now is the time to apply for an ACWA committee, where collaboration leads to real impact across California’s water sector. Serving on a committee offers a unique opportunity to build professional networks, gain deeper insights into water policy and strengthen your leadership skills. It’s also a great chance to collaborate with peers, contribute to meaningful work, and help shape solutions that support your fellow agencies across California.
I speak from personal experience, having recently served on and chaired ACWA’s Finance Committee while working as Chief Financial Officer for Mesa Water District. Our committee’s accomplishments included crafting strategies to reduce the association’s pension liability. Perhaps not the most riveting topic for non-finance professionals, but you know what was exciting? Seeing solutions take shape in real time, interacting with the ACWA Board of Directors and building lasting working relationships with other financial professionals within the ACWA community.
To use a popular financial term, the experience represented a significant return on investment, and that’s a value anyone in any professional sector of our association can appreciate.
ACWA recently launched the application process for those interested in serving on ACWA’s 13 standing committees for the 2026-’27 term. See the accompanying list of committees and use the QR code to learn more.
ACWA committees meet throughout the year, providing key technical, policy and organizational input to the ACWA Board of Directors. Each committee has a specific mission, and together they function as a powerful network of knowledge and influence — a think tank grounded in real-world experience.
But these committees only work because of the dedicated people who serve on them.
In applying for a committee, please consider your availability. Committee work requires active, engaged participants who are ready to devote time and energy to advancing the work of the association.
For young professionals in particular, joining a committee presents an unparalleled opportunity to contribute while learning alongside seasoned leaders from across the state. There is a real need for fresh ideas, diverse voices and committed professionals who want to be part of shaping California’s water future.
In short, committees are where ACWA’s work begins and where lasting contributions are made.
I encourage you to step up, serve and make a difference. Whatever your focus, our committees have a place for your expertise in water.
Check out the application information and committee descriptions today and help your agency — and ACWA — lead the way forward.
ACWA Responds to Revised Draft Bay-Delta Plan Update
SACRAMENTO — The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) today issued a statement from Interim Executive Director Marwan Khalifa regarding the State Water Resources Control Board’s release of a revised draft of its Bay-Delta Plan Update and its inclusion of the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes (HRL) Program.
The Newsom Administration, along with state, federal and local leaders, developed the HRL Program as an innovative alternate approach to traditional regulatory requirements to improve environmental conditions while providing more water supply certainty to communities, farms, and businesses. ACWA has been a long-standing supporter of the HRL Program, previously known as the Voluntary Agreements. More information is available in a news release from the Office of Gov. Gavin Newsom.
“ACWA applauds Gov. Gavin Newsom’s leadership in moving the Bay-Delta Plan Update forward and developing the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program, which is vital to the success of the plan,” Khalifa said. “We deeply appreciate Gov. Newsom’s commitment to seeing the Bay-Delta Plan Update completed in a way that sets aside old binaries and opens a new, collaborative pathway toward strengthening the health of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta ecosystem while preserving water supply reliability for Californians.”
For questions or assistance in arranging interviews with ACWA, contact Caroline Meade at (916) 669-2383 or carolinem@acwa.com.
PWD Mourns Passing Of Board Director Vincent Dino
PALMDALE – It is with a heavy heart that Palmdale Water District (PWD) announces the unexpected passing of Board Director Vincent Dino. Director Dino, age 82, died on July 20 at his home in Palmdale. He and his wife, Deborah, moved from the San Fernando Valley to Palmdale 32 years ago. He was elected to the PWD Board in 2013 and was serving his third term. From 2018 to 2021, he was the Board President followed by two years as vice president. He was also vice president in 2016 and 2017. “We are in shock and very sad about the loss of our colleague and friend, Vince Dino,” said PWD Board President Kathy Mac Laren-Gomez. “He contributed so much to our community, especially the water industry. He was our Board’s steady anchor. We will miss him dearly.” PWD General Manager Dennis D. LaMoreaux remembered Director Dino as an advocate for his constituents in Division 5 and a strong supporter of staff. He was well liked by many employees. “Director Dino had my respect from the time he began his campaign until his last day of service to the District. His values and honesty set a high example for the staff and me. I will not forget Vince’s character and contributions to the District.” At PWD, Director Dino was the Board Secretary and chair of the Resource and Analytics Committee and the Outreach Committee, and an alternate member of the Personnel Committee. He also served as President of the Special Districts Association of North Los Angeles County, a liaison with Antelope Valley-East Kern Water Agency, and a representative on the Association of California Water Agencies & Joint Powers Insurance Authority. A water conservationist and an avid gardener, who harvested hot peppers year-round, Director Dino was proud of his drought-tolerant landscape. He was a retired Journeyman Electrician of 35 years and had served on the city of Palmdale Planning Commission for eight years, including two terms as chairman. He is survived by wife Deborah; daughters Angela Arriaga, Rebecca Dino, Raquel Jakubecy, and Rachel McNary; son Randy McNary; five grandsons and five granddaughters; and numerous siblings and extended family. Services are pending. The PWD Board has 60 days from July 21 to address the vacancy. Services are pending. 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.###
ACWA Committee Appointment Process Under Way for the 2026-’27 Term
ACWA members interested in serving on one of ACWA’s 13 standing committees may apply now through Sept. 19. ACWA’s committees offer members numerous opportunities to stay informed and engage in important issues.
ACWA committees meet throughout the year, providing key technical, policy and organizational input to the ACWA Board of Directors. The committees bring together expertise and perspectives from across the state on key state and federal issues to help ACWA advocate for members in Sacramento and in Washington D.C.
The committee appointment information for the 2026-’27 term has been emailed to ACWA member agency general managers and board presidents. To be considered for a committee appointment, a completed and signed committee consideration form must be submitted to acwacommittees@acwa.com by Sept. 19.
More information about each committee and ACWA’s appointment process is available on ACWA’s website.
BCVWD Recognized for Excellence in Financial Management and Technology
BEAUMONT — The Beaumont-Cherry Valley Water District (BCVWD) continues to demonstrate leadership in financial transparency and innovation, having been recognized with three prestigious awards in 2025. BCVWD received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), the Operating Budget Excellence Award from the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO), and, for the first time, the Excellence in Technology Award from the California Special Districts Association (CSDA).
The GFOA Certificate of Achievement, awarded for BCVWD’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), marks the District’s seventh consecutive year receiving this national distinction. The award follows BCVWD’s annual independent financial audit, which was completed with no findings or reporting issues, reflecting the District’s commitment to sound financial practices, transparency, and accountability in reporting.
The District also earned its fifth consecutive CSMFO Operating Budget Excellence Award for the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. This award highlights the District’s dedication to presenting a clear and accessible financial plan that tells the “story” of BCVWD’s priorities, goals, and services. The District’s budget serves as a primary communication tool with its customers, providing transparency into how ratepayer funds are managed and invested. It also includes a Capital Improvement Budget, which details planned infrastructure projects and investments over the next five years, reinforcing BCVWD’s commitment to long-term planning and system reliability.
New this year, BCVWD is to be honored with the CSDA Excellence in Technology Award for its 2024 District-Wide Technology and Cybersecurity Framework Improvements, which significantly enhanced internal operations, customer service, and the security of District systems. Board Vice President Lona Williams will formally accept this statewide award at the CSDA Annual Conference in Monterey this August.
“Receiving these awards is a reflection of the high-quality work performed across all levels of the District,” said Board President Daniel Slawson. “Our team continues to set a standard for excellence, providing reliable service while operating transparently and efficiently for our ratepayers.”
“It is an incredible honor to accept the CSDA Technology Award on behalf of the District,” added Board Vice President Lona Williams. “This award recognizes our team’s commitment to innovation and good governance, and I am proud to stand with BCVWD as we continue to deliver value and transparency to our community.”
GFOA serves more than 21,000 members, recognizing best practices in financial reporting and transparency. Learn more at GFOA.org.
CSMFO awards its Budget Excellence honors to agencies with outstanding fiscal planning and transparent reporting. More information is available at CSMFO.org.
CSDA’s Excellence in Technology Award is given to only one special district each year, highlighting outstanding innovation in technology, improved efficiency, enhanced customer service, and strengthened cybersecurity practices. Learn more at CSDA.net.
For more information on Beaumont-Cherry Valley Water District, visit BCVWD.gov.
Agency Recognized for Enduring Impact on Inland Empire Youth
BEAUMONT – The SoCal STEAM Challenge has recognized the San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) for 15 years of transformative support for Inland Empire students pursuing hands-on learning in sustainability, science, and innovation. At a recent ceremony, SGPWA Board President Mickey Valdivia, Board Treasurer Robert Ybarra, and Director Sarah Wargo accepted the award on behalf of the agency, which has become a cornerstone of the region’s environmental education efforts. “Our youth are the next scientists, engineers, and leaders in our water community and beyond,” said President Valdivia. “It’s critical we show them the value of conservation and science, so they can help build a resilient future. By investing in programs like the SoCal STEAM Challenge, we’re helping students see themselves as problem-solvers and conservation champions.” SGPWA sponsors this annual hands-on competition where Inland Empire high school students design, build, and race 16-foot solar-powered boats. Held over three days at Yucaipa Regional Park, the event features endurance, slalom, and sprint races; and includes student-created public service announcements focused on water conservation. SGPWA’s support covers the cost for teams from 11 schools to compete, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to education, innovation, and sustainability in the region. The SoCal STEAM Challenge is just one of the ways SGPWA invests in local learning. The agency also partners with the Inland Empire Resource Conservation District (IERCD) to deliver dynamic water conservation programming in classrooms, at community events, and through interactive workshops. Mark your calendars! The next SoCal STEAM Challenge sets sail in May 2026, with SGPWA returning as a proud sponsor for the 16th year. Learn more at sgpwa.com.###
About San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency Formed in 1961, SGPWA is a State Water Contractor that serves a 225-square-mile area of western Riverside County. The service area includes the cities of Calimesa, Beaumont, and Banning, and the communities of Cherry Valley, Cabazon, and the Banning Bench. In addition to importing State Water Project (SWP) water from Northern California to augment local groundwater sources, the Agency builds local system infrastructure, participates in water transfers, partners in statewide water projects and collaborates on regional water reliability and conservation efforts.