Improved Water Availability Raises Bond Rating To ‘AA-‘ for Montecito Water District
S&P Global Ratings announced the long-term rating on Montecito Water District California’s series 2020A water revenue refunding bonds increased to ‘AA-‘ from ‘A+’. The report references a stable outlook and access to water from the City of Santa Barbara Charles E. Meyer desalination plant (through the Water Supply Agreement beginning in 2022) as materially improving water resiliency through severe drought conditions and alleviating exposure to unpredictable water allocations from the State Water Project. The rating also expresses confidence that the District will continue to produce solid and consistent financial results.
“For nearly a decade we’ve put tremendous effort into securing local, reliable water supplies and cementing regional collaboration,” said Board President Ken Coates. “The improved bond rating is strong validation that the District is on the right path with both stewardship of water resources and its fiscal responsibility.”
Numerous actions to increase local, reliable supplies in recent years have helped strengthen and diversify the District’s water portfolio and reduce dependence on the increasingly variable State Water Project deliveries. In addition to participation in desalination which secures monthly water deliveries from the City of Santa Barbara, the District has accumulated more than a year’s worth of water since it began a groundwater banking program in 2017. During rainy years surplus State Water Project deliveries are conveyed to a groundwater bank and may remain stored until needed, for example under future drought conditions.
Another important achievement is the completed Water Efficiency Plan which identifies customer-facing initiatives to promote and support efficient water use behaviors. Plan projects implemented to date include Water Budgets, a rebate program, and WaterSmart – a customer portal that provides access to the numerous benefits of smart meters such as real-time usage data and customizable leak notifications. The greatest opportunity for a robust long-term water supply outlook is through the District’s pro-active management of supply and demand—annual customer use has remained consistently reduced by about 45% since 2015.
Montecito Water District’s mission is to provide an adequate and reliable supply of high-quality water to the residents of Montecito and Summerland, at the most reasonable cost. In carrying out this mission, the District places particular emphasis on providing outstanding customer service, conducting its operations in an environmentally sensitive manner, and working cooperatively with other agencies. For additional information visit www.montecitowater.com, like Montecito Water District on Facebook, and follow on twitter @MontecitoWater.
Yuba Water’s Latest Grants Support Levee Improvements and More
On July 15, Yuba Water Agency approved more than $6.2 million in grants for major levee improvements along the Feather River north of Marysville, water supply reliability throughout the county and wildfire resilience in Dobbins and Oregon House.
Levee improvements north of Marysville
A $5.25 million grant awarded to Reclamation District 10 will help the district improve an 8,500-foot stretch of levee on the east bank of the Feather River along the Highway 70 corridor north of Marysville. The funds will be used to plan, design and permit a project that will reduce seepage and improve the levee’s resilience when flows increase along the Feather. District 10 includes approximately 12,000 acres of land and 23 miles of levees that protect a highly productive agricultural area, Highway 70, two Union Pacific Railroad tracks, homes and businesses. Yuba Water previously provided funding to study the condition of levees in the district along with potential improvements. “Over the last 20 years or so, we’ve invested heavily in improving the levees around Yuba County’s more populated, urban areas like Marysville, Linda, Olivehurst and Plumas Lake,” said Sami Nall, Yuba Water’s flood risk reduction manager. “Now, we’re expanding our focus to make sure our rural levees are also updated and reducing flood risk for our agricultural communities and businesses.”Water supply infrastructure upgrades throughout Yuba County
Yuba Water also awarded four grants totaling $976,135 to improve water supply reliability for local water suppliers. Three of the grants are cost-share grants, which means the recipient is matching Yuba Water’s funds to complete the work.- Lake Francis Mutual Water Company: A $451,000 grant awarded to Lake Francis Mutual Water Company will help support engineering, design and environmental review of a new water storage tank, piping, a fire hydrant and an improved access road at Lake Francis Estates. The project will improve the quality of water delivered to the community by providing interior tank access for inspection and maintenance. The new tank will also meet current seismic and other requirements.
- Linda County Water District: A $372,672 cost-share grant to the Linda County Water District will help relocate several fire hydrants, water mains and other critical water and sewage infrastructure to coincide with Yuba County’s North Beale Road Complete Streets Safety Project, which includes road and drainage improvements along North Beale Road in Linda.
- Plumas Mutual Water Company: A $135,000 cost-share grant to Plumas Mutual Water Company will help install modern equipment to remotely monitor, control and measure surface water flows in the district to maximize efficiency and minimize water loss in their irrigation water distribution system in South Yuba County.
- Ramirez Water District: A $17,463 cost-share grant will help the Ramirez Water District replace a failing road-crossing pipe that serves as their main water supply diversion for irrigation north of the Yuba River. The 40-foot pipe crosses under Ramirez Road and delivers all of the district’s surface water from the Yuba.
Yuba Resource Conservation District capacity building
Lastly, the board approved a $12,000 grant to the Yuba County Resource Conservation District for grant writing support. The district will use the funds to apply for additional state grant funding to support specific treatment projects aimed at reducing wildfire risk for the communities of Dobbins and Oregon House in the Yuba County foothills. Learn more at yubawater.org.SMWD’s Stewart Recognized for Exemplary Leadership
California Water Environment Association (CWEA) recently recognized Bryan Stewart as the 2025 Emerging Leader of the Year. Bryan’s strategic mindset, coupled with his strong interpersonal skills, has enhanced SMWD’s operational efficiency, which continues to drive innovation at Santa Margarita Water District.
Bryan notes, “I am truly honored to receive this award and could not have done it without the support and collaboration of the exceptional team here at SMWD.”
Since joining the SMWD in 2021 as a Management Analyst, Bryan has been a driving force behind several key operational improvements. He led the upgrade of the District’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection software, which is used to visually assess the condition of underground pipelines. In addition, he introduced new geographic information system (GIS) capabilities—digital mapping technology used to visualize and analyze infrastructure data.
One of Bryan’s most impactful achievements was integrating GIS data with the CCTV system for the first time in the field. This advancement allowed inspection crews to initiate pipeline inspections directly from GIS maps, significantly improving accuracy, coordination, and overall efficiency. Beyond technology, Bryan has also contributed to refining internal policies, procedures, and reporting practices, helping the District modernize its approach to infrastructure management. Bryan’s work was highlighted in the feature article, Reclaiming History, Rebuilding Infrastructure – How SMWD Uses GIS for Smart Trenchless Rehab, which appeared in the May 2025 issue of Trenchless Technology.
SMWD’s Water Festival: A Splashing Success
Santa Margarita Water District’s 2025 Water Festival made a big splash on Saturday, June 7, drawing more than 2,700 customers, families, and community partners to a fun-filled, educational celebration of our most precious resource—water.
From hands-on activities to behind-the-scenes infrastructure tours, the event brought neighbors and friends together to learn, explore, and connect with community organizations and SMWD, their water provider.
Rod, who lives in Rancho Santa Margarita, attended the Water Festival for the first time along with his grandchildren. “What a fun experience! It was great to learn about what SMWD does behind the scenes,” he said.
Rod signed up for two infrastructure bus tours led by SMWD’s chief engineer and a senior operations leader. He was also thrilled to speak with the technicians and see the pumps and equipment that keep water flowing up close and personal. “I may have had more fun than the kids,” he said.
From holding reptiles to touring the WaterWorks Garden, a Monarch butterfly habitat featuring five blooming landscape styles, and enjoying complimentary pizza and shaved ice, the event was bustling with activity and life.
Throughout the event, the video The Journey of Water: From River to Tap played on large-screen monitors. The award-winning video tells the story of how water travels from hundreds of miles away and how SMWD delivers local, sustainable, and reliable drinking water and wastewater services to over 210,000 customers in southern Orange County.
For those who attended the Water Festival, it was a memorable day full of discovery.
“Water is something we all depend on but rarely think about. When neighbors come together to learn, ask questions, and explore what we do—it’s powerful. That connection is what this event is all about,” said Nicole Stanfield, SMWD Director of Communications and Customer Engagement, who organizes the annual event.
The day was packed with family-friendly activities like live reptile encounters, butterfly and pollinator exhibits, an inflatable zipline, and educational puppet shows. Festival attendees spoke with garden and water conservation experts, climbed into SMWD’s big trucks and equipment, and visited Rosie the snake from The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo.
“Our goal is to show our community the care, technology, and dedication that go into every drop. Most people don’t realize the complexity and effort that go into delivering water every day. When people see it for themselves, they walk away with a completely new perspective and knowing they’re in good hands,” Nicole continued.
Those who embarked on the Water Wizard Trivia Contest submitted answers to 19 water and SMWD-services-related questions. Winners received colorful Lego sets and gardening kits, which were in high demand.
Save the Date: 2026 Water Festival
Thank you to everyone who joined us and for being part of this special day. We hope you’ll join us on Saturday, May 16, 2026, for another exciting journey into the world of water. Until then, know that your SMWD team is working hard behind the scenes, delivering the high-quality drinking water and wastewater services you rely on every day.
Inspiring Action
Following the Water Festival, Rod reported a water irrigation leak to SMWD, who identified the irrigation equipment as belonging to the local homeowner association. The master HOA responded to Rod’s maintenance request submitted on their website and made the fix. In fun, Rod said, “I’m a water warrior now!”
SMWD appreciates the community’s commitment to making our way of life sustainable and mindful of how we use one of our most precious resources – water.
Watch the Video Recap of 2025 Water Festival.
Desert Water Agency GM Steve Johnson Retires; Esther M. Saenz succeeds as new GM
PALM SPRINGS – After an impressive 30 years at Desert Water Agency, with the last 16 months as General Manager, Steve Johnson retired on July 4.
The Board of Directors recognized Johnson for his outstanding commitment and contributions with a resolution at its Board meeting on July 1.
Esther M. Saenz, previously the Finance Director at DWA, replaced Johnson upon his retirement. Saenz has been at DWA since 2010 and brings extensive fiscal experience, proven leadership and a deep understanding of the Agency’s operations to her new role.
“It’s been an honor to serve our customers throughout my 30 years at Desert Water Agency. I am proud to pass the torch of General Manager to Esther Saenz. With nearly 15 years of service to DWA, Esther’s dedication is evident. You can rest assured that your water, and the Agency, are in good hands,” said Johnson.
The DWA Board of Directors approved Saenz’ selection on Sept. 17, 2024, well in advance of Johnson’s retirement, to guarantee a smooth transition.
“Steve’s leadership and devotion to public service for the past three decades has made a lasting impact on the Agency and the community it serves. His dedication will be missed,” said DWA Board President Paul Ortega. “Esther has been key to DWA’s fiscal management and strategic planning. Under her leadership we are confident DWA will continue to thrive and improve as an Agency.”
Saenz will oversee the Agency’s operations, including management of the community’s water resources, and compliance with ever-changing water and conservation regulations. Key objectives under her leadership include continued innovation, service excellence, water efficiency, and water supply resilience, including participation in the Delta Conveyance Project and Sites Reservoir Project.
“I am determined to build upon the strong foundation Steve and others before him established. Together, with the talented team at DWA, we will continue to meet the evolving needs of our diverse community and ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply now and into the future,” said Saenz.
About DWA
Desert Water Agency is a public, not-for-profit agency and a State Water Project contractor, managing and importing water for a 325-square-mile area in the western Coachella Valley. DWA provides tap water service to Palm Springs and parts of Cathedral City. An elected five-member board sets policy and represents the ratepayers.
San Gabriel Valley MWD Welcomes New General Manager Jose Reynoso
AZUSA — The San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (District) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Jose Reynoso as the District’s new General Manager. Mr. Reynoso brings more than 25 years of public service experience in local government and water management. Prior to joining the District, he served in leadership roles in several San Gabriel Valley cities, including El Monte, Alhambra, Monterey Park, and Sierra Madre, where he most recently served as City Manager. His career includes extensive experience overseeing municipal water operations, having served as Water Superintendent, Deputy Public Works Director, and Director of Utilities. “Jose is a highly respected leader with a deep understanding of both municipal operations and water systems,” said Board President Dr. Steve Placido. “His regional experience and collaborative approach make him well-suited to continue the District’s mission in providing imported supplemental water to its member cities.” Mr. Reynoso holds a bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of La Verne. He has served on the Board of Directors for the Raymond Basin Management Board and previously represented the City of Sierra Madre as a liaison to the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District. This leadership transition follows the retirement of Darin Kasamoto, who concludes a distinguished public service career spanning more than 35 years. Mr. Kasamoto joined the District in 1997 as Assistant General Manager and was appointed General Manager in 2004. Under his leadership, the District invested in key infrastructure, maintained strong financial stewardship, and continued to deliver reliable imported water on behalf of its member cities: Alhambra, Azusa, Monterey Park, and Sierra Madre. Before joining the District, Mr. Kasamoto worked as a civil engineer for nine years at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Purdue University and a master’s degree in Civil Engineering from California State University, Long Beach. He is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of California. “We are incredibly grateful for Darin’s dedication and leadership,” said Dr. Placido. “He has earned the respect of the Board, staff, and stakeholders, and leaves behind a legacy of excellence that has positioned the District for continued success.” Mr. Kasamoto will remain available through August 31, 2025, to assist with the leadership transition.### (more…)
UWCD Sets the Pace for Groundwater Recharge in California
Oxnard, CA (July 2, 2025) – United Water Conservation District’s (UWCD) has once again solidified its status as California’s premier groundwater recharge agency. For the second consecutive year, UWCD’s Oxnard Basin ranked first in the State for groundwater recharge, according to the California Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) 2025 Semi-Annual Groundwater Conditions Update.
OXNARD – During Water Year 2024, UWCD successfully replenished 80,533 acre-feet of groundwater, or more than 26 billion gallons, across 57,888 acres, resulting in a recharge rate of 1.39 acre-feet per acre, or nearly half a million gallons per acre, the highest in California. UWCD’s recharge operations in the Forebay area played a central role in achieving this top ranking, demonstrating the continued effectiveness of local infrastructure and proactive water management strategies.
This achievement is the direct result of UWCD’s aggressive, science-driven water management strategy that blends cutting-edge infrastructure, bold action, and long-term vision,” said Lynn Maulhardt, UWCD Board President. “Our team remains committed to managing this precious resource with a deep sense of responsibility to the communities we serve.”
While Water Year 2023 was historically wet, 2024 presented less predictable conditions, making the capture and storage of available flows even more critical. UWCD’s ability to efficiently harness stormwater, surface water and imported water; and direct it into managed aquifer recharge underscores the UWCD’s role in strengthening regional and statewide water security.
“Every gallon we recharge strengthens California’s water future,” said Mauricio Guardado, UWCD General Manager. “Our continued success reflects years of strategic investment and planning, along with the dedication of our staff and partners. We will keep leading with innovation and stewardship as our region adapts to an evolving climate.”
Beyond the Oxnard Basin, UWCD manages six additional groundwater basins throughout the Santa Clara River Valley. Its efforts support water reliability for agriculture, industry, and more than 400,000 residents in Ventura County and beyond.
As climate extremes become more frequent, groundwater recharge remains a vital tool in building a more drought-resilient future. With groundwater providing up to 60% of the state’s water supply during dry years, the work being done by UWCD is nothing short of essential.
For more information on UWCD’s groundwater management programs, visit www.unitedwater.org.
MWDOC Celebrates 2025 Water Awareness Poster Contest Winners
The Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) proudly honored the 40 student winners of the 2025 Water Awareness Poster Contest at a special awards ceremony held in June at Shipley Nature Center in Huntington Beach. Surrounded by nature, students and their families enjoyed a memorable afternoon that included lunch, an outdoor scavenger hunt, and an awards program recognizing each student’s creativity and commitment to water conservation.
Students also rotated through three (3) hands-on learning stations including exploring vermicomposting and how healthy soil saves water; building a mini water delivery system to learn how far imported water travels; and working together to discover how water is shared among various needs and industries. These activities highlight MWDOC’s dedication to educating the community about using water wisely.
The annual contest, supported by MWDOC’s member agencies and educational partners, invites K-12 students to illustrate the importance of using water wisely. This year’s ceremony included a special appearance by Ricky the Rambunctious RaindropSM, MWDOC’s longtime water-saving mascot who has inspired generations of Orange County students to care for our precious water resources. In addition to the local contest, 15 student entries were also submitted to The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s regional “Water Is Life” contest for a chance to be featured in their annual calendar.
MWDOC extends its congratulations to all 2025 winners and thanks the teachers, parents, and local water providers who help make this program a success each year. To view the winning artwork, visit www.mwdoc.com/postercontest.
Moulton Niguel Water District Honored for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Moulton Niguel Water District is being recognized for excellence in financial reporting by the country’s leading group of government finance experts. For the third consecutive year, the Government Finance Officers Association has honored Moulton Niguel with its “Triple Crown” award, the organization’s highest honor that recognizes public entities committed to transparency and excellence in financial reporting. “We are proud to once again meet the high standards for financial reporting set by the Government Finance Officers Association,” said Board President Duane D. Cave, who has more than four decades of experience in the utility industry. “By reinvesting ratepayer funds into building, maintaining and upgrading our water infrastructure system, we’re ensuring a strong and reliable water system for decades to come.” The “Triple Crown” award recognizes excellence in financial reporting for the Fiscal Year ending on June 30, 2024. To receive the GFOA Triple Crown, government entities must receive all three of the association’s public financing awards, including:- Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
- Distinguished Budget Presentation Award
- Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award
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IEUA Selected for $1.39 Million in Conditional Federal Funding for Recharge Project
INLAND EMPIRE – The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA/Agency) has received a conditional notice of award from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) for $1,389,147 under the 2025 WaterSMART Drought Response Program. The funding supports the Montclair Basin Improvement Project. This project will be completed by IEUA in collaboration with the Chino Basin Watermaster and the Chino Basin Water Conservation District, which will expand local groundwater recharge capacity and bolster regional drought preparedness in the Chino Groundwater Basin.
Announced by Reclamation on June 26, 2025, the WaterSMART Drought Response Program includes $33.5 million in funding for 14 projects across California, Nebraska, Utah, and Washington. These projects aim to improve drought resiliency through infrastructure upgrades, advanced water treatment, and innovative water management tools and technologies.
“We appreciate the Bureau of Reclamation’s continued partnership in helping our region secure sustainable water supplies,” said IEUA Board President Marco Tule. “This conditional funding supports critical improvements that will allow IEUA to capture and store more water locally, further protecting our groundwater basin and our communities against future droughts.”
The Montclair Basin Improvement Project, located in the city of Montclair, is designed to increase the volume of stormwater, dry-weather runoff, and imported water recharged into the Chino Groundwater Basin. Specifically, the project will construct new diversion inlets and improve existing infrastructure, building upon previous basin improvements completed in partnership with the Chino Basin Water Conservation District.
“Every drop of water captured and stored during wet years is a critical investment into future water supply reliability,” continued Tule. “IEUA continues to prioritize projects and initiatives that benefit the region. We remain committed to working with our partners to finalize the federal review process and advance efforts to deliver innovative, regional solutions that protect and enhance local water resources.”