Desert Water Agency Introduces Updated Look and New Mascot!
Desert Water Agency is excited to launch a refreshed brand, including an updated logo, fresh colors and fonts, and a brand-new fennec fox mascot!
While our look has evolved, we are the same Agency formed in 1961 dedicated to protecting our natural resources and ensuring safe and reliable water. The refresh is intended to modernize DWA’s brand to reflect our commitment to water sustainability and customer service in a more fresh and engaging manner.
Customers will start to slowly notice the new look as we roll out the different components. The revised logo was introduced earlier this year with the launch of DWA’s new bills and myDWA Customer Portal in March. And, the mascot made an appearance on our new canned water bottles, which were shared at a community picnic in March.
Learn more at www.dwa.org/brandrefresh .
Toolkit Available to Celebrate Water Awareness Month in May
California’s Water Awareness Month will kick off May 1, providing water suppliers an opportunity to highlight agency efforts, programs and investments made to continue delivering safe and affordable water to the communities they serve. This is also a great opportunity to continue asking customers to use water wisely and share information on rebates.
ACWA is encouraging member agencies to participate in Water Awareness Month by downloading the toolkit and utilizing customizable social media posts and graphics — including generalized posts for both urban and agricultural agencies — and the Water Awareness Month logo.
More information and a link to download the toolkit is available online. Member login is required.
SMWD Named Large Collection System Operator of the Year
Santa Margarita Water District’s (SMWD) Collections Systems team was named 2024-25 Collection System of the Year – Large District by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) and its Santa Ana River Basin Section (SARBS).
The award, which recognizes excellence in wastewater collection system management, operation, and maintenance, was presented to SMWD at the annual award ceremony on March 14, 2025. This recognition is awarded to agencies or utilities that demonstrate outstanding performance in system reliability, regulatory compliance, safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
The Large Operator category is held for agencies serving larger populations operating extensive wastewater infrastructure. This award is prestigious in the wastewater industry, signifying leadership and excellence in water environment management.
Significance of the Award
- Operational Excellence – Recognizes SMWD for maintaining high standards in managing large wastewater collection systems, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
- Regulatory Compliance – Highlights SMWD’s adherence to state and federal wastewater regulations, minimizing sanitary sewer overflows and environmental impacts.
- Innovation and Best Practices – Recognizes SMWD for adopting new technologies, proactive maintenance strategies, and sustainability initiatives.
- Workforce Development and Safety – Acknowledges SMWD’s investment in training, safety programs, and employee development.
- Community and Environmental Impact – Honors SMWD for contributing to public health and environmental protection through effective wastewater management.
SMWD Deputy General Manager, Lindsay Leahy, who attended the award ceremony, said, “This award means a great deal to our Collections team and our District. Our Collections Team plays a vital role in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring a reliable and efficient wastewater system for the community. Their exceptional efforts and track record in maintenance programs, regulatory compliance, and safety have earned them this well-deserved, statewide recognition.”
This skilled team maintains wastewater pipelines through CCTV inspections and debris removal, preventing blockages and sanitary sewer overflows (SSO). They also operate lift stations to ensure reliable service in areas with elevated terrain.
As environmental stewards and first responders, they combine technical expertise with strong communication skills to manage emergencies and assist the public. Their professionalism and teamwork are essential to SMWD’s mission of providing dependable wastewater services.
Federal Grant Supplies Stronger Water Resources in Fire-Prone Area
BEAUMONT – Beaumont-Cherry Valley Water District (BCVWD) received $2.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to bolster water system reliability for thousands of residents and support firefighting and fire suppression efforts in a challenging fire-risk region. The grant, awarded through the County of Riverside, will provide for two new pipeline projects that, coupled with a new District-funded 2-million-gallon water tank, greatly increase water system capacity and storage.
These much-needed upgrades come in the wake of the catastrophic Apple and El Dorado fires in 2020, which pushed BCVWD’s water system to the edge. Both fires impacted the District’s upper pressure zones, which included many aged pipelines. The increased water supply demands required to fight the fires led to 11 water system line breaks due to outdated infrastructure and reduced transmission capacity from small-diameter transmission pipelines. This resulted in pressure surges during high-demand water flow events, such as multiple hydrants being open and shut during multi-point firefighting activities.
“Partnerships like this are essential for maintaining a resilient water system,” said Board Member David Hoffman. “By leveraging grant funding alongside District investments, we’re not only ensuring a stable water supply for residents but also reinforcing critical firefighting infrastructure. These improvements will help safeguard lives, property, and resources in an area where fire risk is a real and ongoing concern.”
Connected to BCVWD’s self-funded 2-million-gallon Noble Storage Tank, the first project installs more than 2,800 linear feet of 24-inch diameter pipeline near Cherry Avenue and International Park Road. This project is located in the District’s 3040 pressure zone. The new pipeline and tank increase the area’s water storage capacity to 4 million gallons, supporting District operations and strengthening fire response capabilities.
The second project will construct 3,000 linear feet of 12-inch diameter pipe to replace 10-inch waterline that has reached the end of its service life. This pipeline, located adjacent to Little San Gorgonio Creek, provides two-way water system transmission and service between the District’s 3300 pressure zone and 3620 pressure zone. These pressure zones support the system impacted by the Apple and El Dorado fires. Leaks and ruptures impacted the existing waterline during the fires due to age, and the District will build a new water main and support facilities within Edgar Canyon to ensure sustainable operations. The District will also add fire hydrants at least 1,000 feet apart to provide additional fire support in the area.
“Nothing is more important to us than providing safe, reliable water to our community,” Board President Daniel Slawson said. “These new pipelines can last for 100 years, providing a new foundation to dependably serve the region for years to come. We are also grateful to assist firefighters so they can do the critical work of saving lives with solid water resources.”
The ARPA-funded projects align closely with BCVWD’s Capital Improvement Plan, which aims to replace aging infrastructure throughout the District — including pipes that have reached the end of their useful life. This ensures BCVWD can deliver high-quality water consistently for the next century.
ARPA was signed into law by President Biden on March 11, 2021. It provided $350 billion in Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to state, local, territorial and Tribal governments, including for water and sewer infrastructure investments.
BCVWD anticipates completing both projects around June 2025.
Learn more at bcvwd.gov.
ACWA Guidance Available on PHG Reports
SACRAMENTO — ACWA has prepared a guidance document that can help member agencies prepare a report, due July 1, on the detection of any contaminants above the Public Health Goals (PHGs), which are published by the state’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA). Public water systems with more than 10,000 service connections are required to complete the report.
ACWA distributed an April 19 Advisory about the guidance document, and member login is required to access it online.
Required every three years, the report is necessary to satisfy requirements of California Health and Safety Code Section 116470(b).
For questions about Public Health Goals reporting requirements, please contact ACWA Regulatory Advocate Nick Blair.
Underground Water Monitoring Project Sheds Light on Water Quality
BEAUMONT – The San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) will soon break ground on a groundwater monitoring wells installation project to support water reliability for local disadvantaged communities (DACs) near Banning, CA, in partnership with the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
Starting April 17, the drilling and construction will be concentrated near 1220 Dysart Drive in Banning. Residents can expect the project to last 10 to 15 business days, with operating hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Local homes will not be directly impacted, and SGPWA and USGS will take all possible measures to minimize disruptions to the public’s daily routines.
“Groundwater is essential for the San Gorgonio Pass area,” said SGPWA Board President Mickey Valdivia. “We are committed to ensuring all residents, especially those in disadvantaged communities, have access to safe, clean, and affordable water. We will continue safeguarding these vital resources for today, tomorrow and into future.”
This critical work is funded by a $2 million Sustainable Groundwater Planning (SGWP) Grant from the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to advance the goals of the San Gorgonio Pass Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP).
Groundwater monitoring wells provide vital information about the water beneath our feet. SGPWA will use data collected from the monitoring wells to better understand water quality and resources for the DACs overlying the San Gorgonio Pass Subbasin. DACs are burdened with higher rates of economic and public health strain. This includes parts of the communities of Banning, Verbenia, Cabazon and the Morongo Band of Mission Indians Reservation. Through the monitoring wells, SGPWA can plan for a sustainable water future in the Pass area.
Groundwater monitoring wells work by observing groundwater levels and flow conditions, gathering samples to test groundwater quality, and evaluating the groundwater’s hydraulic properties. They collect invaluable hydrogeologic data to bolster dependable water resources throughout the area. Installation sites are chosen carefully to protect the water supply and deliver the best results. Once installed, residents will not experience any community impacts or interruptions.
SGPWA expects to complete the monitoring wells installations by September and will use the data to safeguard dependable water resources for all. Please contact Matthew Howard at (760) 885-7844 or visit sgpwa.com for more information about this project.
###
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.
ACWA Foundation Building Strategic Partnerships to Power California’s Water Future
With foundational infrastructure in place and strong momentum from early outreach, the ACWA Foundation is poised to take bold next steps in addressing the critical workforce shortage facing the water industry.
The Foundation — a nonprofit 501(c)3 formed by the ACWA Board of Directors in 2022 — is convening water agencies, industry leaders, higher education institutions, and educators to co-create pilot programs focused on training water operators in key regions of California. Lean focus groups — featuring representation from each interested group — will collaborate to develop curriculum and training pathways that align with the real-world needs of a qualified, mission-ready workforce.
More details will be unveiled during the ACWA Foundation’s Solution Spotlight at the upcoming ACWA Spring Conference & Expo.
In addition, the Foundation recognizes and celebrates those already leading the charge in inclusive recruitment. To support continued innovation in building welcoming, diverse workplaces, the Foundation is launching a new webinar series this June. Industry experts will share cutting-edge strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, and attendees will have the chance to engage directly with peers to exchange ideas and actionable solutions.
To learn more about the ACWA Foundation’s work, please visit its new website at www.acwa-foundation.org. The ACWA Foundation and its Board of Trustees operate separately and independently from ACWA and its Board of Directors.
Members Urged to Join Coalition Against PFAS Bill
SACRAMENTO — ACWA is urging members to join an oppose-unless-amended coalition against AB 794, which would require the State Water Resources Control Board on or before Dec. 31, 2026, to adopt an emergency regulation and initiate a primary drinking water standard for PFAS consistent with the current federal standard.
Of significant concern to ACWA, this bill would circumvent the state’s existing process for setting drinking water standards that appropriately includes scientific review, evaluation of feasibility of treatment and cost-effectiveness, and public input.
ACWA’s State Legislative Committee has created a working group to develop proposed amendments to the bill and ACWA staff is working to promote those amendments on behalf of member agencies. A large coalition will strengthen those efforts. Join the coalition by completing an online form.
For more information about AB 794 or the coalition, members can review the ACWA Legislative Alert distributed April 14.
Regional Partnership Brings Reliable Water to Twin Pines Residents
BANNING – On March 28, San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) celebrated its gap funding project partner High Valleys Water District (HVWD) at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for HVWD’s new water lines.
Before this project, HVWD’s 12 customers shared access to outdated lines in a rural, fire-prone area. Now, both existing and incoming customers have access to reliable water delivery.
“With the completion of this critical project, High Valleys Water District has enhanced not only the community’s water supply but also advanced its fire safety and future growth potential,” said SGPWA Board President Mickey Valdivia. “This partnership, coupled with our gap funding support, ensures that High Valleys Water District is better equipped to serve its customers and protect their homes.”
In January 2024, HVWD received Proposition 1 Integrated Regional Water Management Plan (IRWM) grant funds through the Department of Water Resources (DWR). SGPWA provided nearly $1 million in gap funding to support the work.
“At our core, SGPWA is a system of systems. Regional collaboration is the bedrock of our success. If one community’s water system thrives, we all thrive,” SGPWA Board Treasurer and former Banning City Councilman Robert Ybarra said. “We are grateful to the City of Banning, Banning Heights Water District, High Valleys Water District, Cabazon Water District and Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District for working with us to create a vision for a more resilient and cost-effective water future.”
DWR financed the project as a result of the decade-long partnership between SGPWA, the City of Banning, Banning Heights Water District, HVWD, Cabazon Water District, and Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. These entities form the San Gorgonio Integrated Regional Water Management (SG IRWM) group specifically to bring DWR funding to the region.
Gap funding ensures water retailers can use state funding such as Proposition 1 IRWM grants, even when the retailers lack financial reserves to handle the up-front costs. In recent years, SGPWA has disbursed more than $8 million in gap funding to small water systems across the Pass area.
More than 50 community members attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including leaders from HVWD’s and SGPWA’s Board, representatives from Cal Fire, and representatives from State Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh’s office and Riverside County Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez’s office. Learn more at www.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.
2025 Strategic Plan Advances Innovation, Resilience, and Regional Impact
ROWLAND HEIGHTS – Rowland Water District proudly announces the fifth edition of Effective Action for Sustainable Progress, a comprehensive, guiding document for ensuring long-term water reliability, fiscal responsibility, and exceptional customer service. The plan was formally adopted at the District’s April regular board meeting.
“This strategic plan represents our unwavering dedication to the people we serve,” said RWD Board President John Bellah. “It’s not just about getting water to the tap—it’s about protecting our future, supporting our community, and doing the right thing for generations to come.”
Since 2012, each edition of the strategic plan has advanced the District’s mission, operations, and water reliability goals. The latest plan builds on key achievements since 2022, including major capital projects like the $2.9 million Cuatro Booster Station rebuild, expansion of water supply through the Six Basins Groundwater Project, and new initiatives supporting California’s “Conservation as a Way of Life.”
“This is more than a roadmap—it’s a promise to our customers that we will continue to evolve, adapt, and lead,” added RWD General Manager Tom Coleman. “It reflects our commitment to transparency, responsible planning, and delivering long-term value to the communities we serve.”
The 2025 plan outlines five strategic priorities:
· Communication – Enhancing customer relationships through multilingual outreach, conservation education, and digital water use efficiency tools.
· Value – Promoting financial prudence and securing grants for infrastructure and conservation.
· Organizational Development – Investing in staff leadership, board training, and staff-driven community service.
· Water Supply Diversity – Strengthening drought resilience through groundwater, recycled water, and regional collaboration.
· System Reliability – Upgrading infrastructure, monitoring systems, and emergency preparedness.
Additional highlights include FEMA-supported grant efforts, advanced water treatment for emerging contaminants, and a strong emphasis on workforce development. Structured training, board succession planning, and expanded volunteer efforts also ensure organizational excellence throughout the implementation of the strategic plan. Visit www.rwd.org to view the full plan.
###
About Rowland Water District
Rowland Water District was formed 70 years ago to provide water service to 200 ranchers and farmers in a rural, agricultural community. Over the years, the District has evolved to meet the changing needs of a dynamic and rapidly growing customer base. Rowland Water currently delivers 14 million gallons of safe drinking water to about 55,000 people every day. The District maintains 150 miles of potable water pipeline and 25 miles of recycled water pipeline to serve 13,800 customer connections across 17.2 square miles in southeast Los Angeles County, including portions of Rowland Heights, Hacienda Heights, La Puente, and the cities of Industry and West Covina.