Association of California Water Agencies

980 9th Street, Suite 1000
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 441-4545
Contact Us

Washington, D.C. Office

400 North Capitol Street NW,
Suite 357
Washington, D.C. 20001

Our Partners

Delfina Gonzalez Sworn in to Serve on Otay Water District Board

Director Delfina Gonzalez headshot

SPRING VALLEY – On Dec. 6, Director Delfina Gonzalez was sworn in at a special Otay Water District board of directors meeting. She was elected to represent division two in the November 2024 election.

“I am honored to have been elected by the community of division two and proud to serve Otay’s ratepayers,” said Gonzalez. “My vision is to prioritize long-term planning, responsible water usage, fiscal accountability, and customer service. I am committed to fostering sustainable, pragmatic solutions for South Bay’s water needs, growth, and the well-being of families and businesses. The District has accomplished a great deal through its board and staff, and I am dedicated to being part of this team to continue executing the District’s mission.” Gonzalez brings a multifaceted careerDirector Delfina Gonzalez being sworn in at Otay Water District special board meeting on Dec. 6 to the board, spanning education, labor organizing, business ownership, and community relations. With more than 25 years of dedicated service to Chula Vista and the South San Diego region, she has been a strong advocate for civic engagement and water policy. She previously served on the Citizen Advisory Committee for the Sweetwater Authority and is an elected member of the San Diego County Central Committee, where she has contributed to critical discussions on water policy and political advocacy. Additionally, she has been active in the City of Chula Vista’s district four civic initiatives. Her professional experience extends to her role as a childcare coordinator and department specialist at Southwestern College, where she enhanced educational programs and organized impactful events like the annual Day of the Young Child Conference. Gonzalez also owned an event planning company, managing large-scale city events. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she is known for her ethical leadership, expertise in policy development, financial literacy, and community engagement. Gonzalez’s commitment to public service is reflected in her completion of the San Diego County Water Authority’s Citizens Water Academy. She is also a board member of I Am Green, a nonprofit addressing homelessness and promoting eco-friendly and environmental solutions for a greener future. Originally from Spring Valley and a lifelong San Diegan, she resides in Chula Vista with her husband, Reyes, and is the proud mother of three adult children. During her free time, she enjoys participating in cultural events, church activities, and spending time with her dogs. Director Gonzalez’s term will run from December 2024 through December 2028. Director Delfina Gonzalez and Board membersThe five-member board of directors is the governing body of the District and is responsible for setting rates for service, taxes, policies, ordinances, adopting the annual budget and other matters related to the management and operation of the water agency. Each director is elected by voters within one of five divisions to represent the public’s interest on the Board. Directors serve four-year terms in office. The Otay Water District is a public agency providing water, recycled water, and sewer service to more than 238,000 customers within approximately 125 square miles of southeastern San Diego County, including the communities of eastern Chula Vista, Bonita, Jamul, Spring Valley, Rancho San Diego, unincorporated areas of El Cajon and La Mesa, and eastern Otay Mesa along the international border with Mexico. For more information on the Otay Water District, visit otaywater.gov. Otay Water District’s social media accounts:

Contest Encourages Students to Showcase Personal Connection to Water

Lights, camera, water! The Alameda County Water District’s 6th annual WaterClips Student Video Contest invites Tri-City area students in grades 6-12 to create 30-second videos showcasing the impact and importance of District water in their daily lives. The District will award students over $1,500 in scholarships with winning entries at an awards ceremony and reception hosted at the Fremont Downtown Events Center. Students can submit entries now through March 7, 2025. 

This year’s contest theme, “ACWD Water and Me,” challenges students to produce an entertaining, captivating, and informative 30-second video that conveys the personal significance of ACWD water delivered to their home, neighborhood, school, local businesses and community.  

“We’re thrilled to provide an innovative space for students to generate digital content that shows their awareness and appreciation of the critical role water plays in everyday life,” said ACWD Board President Jim Gunther. “The contest is an important component of our water education program, and year after year, the students’ videos are impressive and inspiring.” 

 A panel of judges of local professionals from various industries, including government, media, non-profit organizations and environmental agencies, will evaluate student entries in, grades 6-8 and grades 9-12. ACWD will award winning students from both groups with six scholarships worth $500, $250 and $100. Students can enter the contest as an individual participant or submit a group entry.  

 Teachers can win, too!  ACWD will award classroom scholarships of up to $200 to teachers in both groups sponsoring the most student submissions or the winning videos. 

“It’s exciting to see the contest grow in popularity with hundreds of entries submitted over the past five years,” added Gunther. “It’s a testament to the decades-long partnership with Tri-City area schools and the value of our water education program to educators, students and their families.” 

 For more information about the WaterClips Student Video Contest, visit acwd.org/waterclips or email waterclips@acwd.com. 

Yuba Water Commits More Than $2.9 Million for Hallwood Canal Improvements

MARYSVILLE – Yuba Water Agency today committed more than $2.9 million to improve the reliability of water deliveries to Yuba County farmers by lining several miles of canals within the Hallwood Irrigation Company’s service area.

The funding will serve as a local match to help Hallwood qualify for a $2 million federal grant for two canal-lining projects. The funding would only be expended if they are successful in securing that federal grant.

Hallwood supplies irrigation water to approximately 9,200 acres of farmland in the valley, north of the Yuba River. Constructed more than 100 years ago, Hallwood’s irrigation system has experienced two significant failures in recent years, resulting in water loss and property damage.

“This is a major renovation that will improve the reliability of our water operations and help save water by reducing seepage,” said Hallwood Director Mark Chandless. “We appreciate the agency’s ongoing support of these critical improvements, which in turn support our local agricultural economy and the community.”

The canal-lining project is part of Hallwood’s multi-year system renovation plan, which Yuba Water previously supported by funding the assessment that guided the plan’s development.

Yuba Water takes next step to advance planned second spillway at New Bullards Bar Dam

Yuba Water also approved an Environmental Impact Report for the agency’s planned Atmospheric River Control (ARC) Spillway project at New Bullards Bar Dam. The report is a requirement under the California Environmental Quality Act and is the next step to move the project forward as the agency continues to explore external funding sources to finance the project.

The ARC Spillway would be the agency’s largest single investment in flood risk reduction for the Yuba-Sutter area since building New Bullards Bar Dam in the late 1960s. The new spillway would have gates 31.5 feet lower than the existing spillway, ensuring more flexibility to make water releases ahead of large atmospheric river storms and reducing stress on downstream levees during the peak of big storms.

Yuba Water honors outgoing Director Don Blaser

At its final meeting of the year, Yuba Water’s board honored outgoing Director Don Blaser, recognizing his dedicated service over the last four years. His term officially ends Jan. 6, 2025.

Blaser joined Yuba Water’s board in 2020 after being elected as Yuba County Supervisor for District 2. The agency’s seven-member board includes all five members of Yuba County’s Board of Supervisors and two elected representatives of North and South Yuba County.

In addition to serving as vice-chairman in 2023, Blaser served on the agency’s Administration, Budget, and Personnel and Project Operations and Development committees, where he helped guide budgets, significant capital improvement projects and community grants and loans. He also served as Yuba Water’s representative for the Mountain Counties Water Resources Association during his tenure.

“Don has always been a champion for projects and efforts designed to lift up the community of Marysville,” said Jon Messick, Yuba Water’s board chairman. “From advocating for the restoration of Ellis Lake to fostering connections with the local business community, his impact extends beyond his role at Yuba Water. We appreciate all he’s done during his time on the board.”

Learn more about Yuba Water’s missions and investments in Yuba County communities at yubawater.org.

###

Sean Bigley Named Roseville Environmental Utilities Director

After a comprehensive statewide search, Roseville has selected its next leader for Environmental Utilities—an essential service that delivers water, wastewater, and solid waste management to a growing community. City Manager Dominick Casey has named Sean Bigley the new director, succeeding longtime director Richard Plecker, who will retire at the end of the year. With nearly two decades of experience and a deep commitment to Roseville’s future, Bigley is prepared to guide the city’s utilities into an innovative and sustainable next chapter. Bigley’s tenure with the city spans almost 20 years. Most recently, he served as Assistant EU Director, managing critical aspects of Roseville’s water and wastewater services. His leadership has been pivotal in shaping utility operations, ensuring reliable services for residents and businesses, and advancing innovative water resource planning. With 11 years of experience working with state and federal agencies, Bigley brings a strategic approach to utility planning that will build on Roseville’s tradition of delivering innovative, valuable, and reliable utility services. “Sean stood out for his extensive knowledge regarding water policy and operations, his support of our people-first culture, and years of demonstrated leadership within Environmental Utilities,” said Casey. Bigley’s career includes big wins that show his forward-thinking approach to sustainability and keeping Roseville resilient: “Providing reliable water, wastewater, and waste management services is key to making Roseville a thriving community. This happens because of the hard work, skill, and dedication of Environmental Utilities staff—24 hours a day, seven days a week—and the support of city leadership. I am honored to lead the Environmental Utilities team, which is committed to delivering excellent service. I remain resolute in our mission to ensure Roseville’s community and economy remain prosperous into the future,” Bigley said. As director, Bigley will lead a team of 285 dedicated professionals who keep Roseville’s essential services running for a thriving community of 150,000 people and over 50,000 utility connections. His responsibilities span everything from managing two regional wastewater treatment plants and a 100 million gallons per day water treatment facility to advancing the city’s growing recycled water and groundwater programs. He’ll also oversee solid waste services (including refuse and recycling) that handle an impressive 140,000 tons of material yearly. Bigley holds a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Sonoma, where he also earned bachelor’s degrees in political science and history. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, gardening, and working toward fluency in Spanish. Sean and his wife have raised their family in Rocklin, where they continue to reside.  

Tuolumne River Partners Complete Habitat Restoration Project

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide a healthy habitat for fish to thrive, Tuolumne River partners Modesto Irrigation District (MID), Turlock Irrigation District (TID) and the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) are excited to announce the construction completion of the Tuolumne River Mainstem Channel Restoration Upstream of Old La Grange Bridge Project.

MID, TID and the 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.

“We remain committed to be good stewards of the Tuolumne and implement solutions to provide a healthy river habitat,” said TID General Manager Brad Koehn. “There is new spawning and in-channel habitat, and we’re encouraged as we’re already seeing fish spawning in the new gravel.”

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 a spawning habitat, large wood features and boulder clusters were added to increase in-channel habitat complexity and diversity.

Project design and implementation was led by McBain and Associates Applied River Sciences in collaboration with and valuable input from experts from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk and Northern Valley Yokuts tribes. Njirich and Sons, Inc. were retained to complete the work, with their team that included Ford Construction.

“There is tremendous power in partnerships,” said Dennis Herrera, General Manager of the SFPUC. “Together, we’re doing the work to protect and restore native fish populations on the Tuolumne River. The Old La Grange Bridge Habitat Restoration Project is also a preview of the future. This project is an example of many projects to come as part of our longer-term commitment to significantly invest in restoring habitat on the Tuolumne as part of the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program.”

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, including funding from a grant from the California Department Fish and Wildlife coupled with MID, TID and the SFPUC’s self-funded commitment of $2.3 million. The project was successfully completed under budget.

“After years of studying the river, we are thrilled to apply what we’ve learned and execute solutions with real-life benefits,” said MID General Manager Jimi Netniss. “This is one of many projects to come that solidifies our commitment to creating a vibrant environment for Tuolumne River fish.”

MID, TID and the SFPUC have made a historic, self-funded commitment of $80 million to design and implement a collaborative, holistic habitat restoration program along the lower Tuolumne River as part of the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program. By 2030 and with the help of renowned experts River Partners and Applied River Sciences, we aim to develop 77 acres of suitable salmon rearing and floodplain habitat and add approximately 100,000 tons of gravel in specific reaches of the river for optimal spawning and rearing.

To see more of the Old La Grange Bridge Project, view a short video here.

WVWD Board to Continue Serving District and Community

RIALTO – West Valley Water District (WVWD) Directors Greg Young, Angela Garcia and Estevan Bennett were officially sworn in during the District’s December 5 board meeting to begin a new 4-year term. All three board members ran unopposed during the election process.

President Young, the longest-serving member of the board has served Division 5 since 2015 and represents constituents in the communities of Bloomington, Rialto and portions of unincorporated San Bernardino County. Director Garcia has served Division 1 since 2022 and represents constituents in the communities of Fontana, Bloomington, as well as portions of unincorporated San Bernardino County. Director Bennett, the newest member of the board, will serve Division 4 and represent constituents in the communities of Rialto and Colton. He was previously appointed to the board in September to fill a vacancy for Division 4. “On behalf of West Valley Water District, I’d like to extend heartfelt congratulations to President Young, Director Garcia and Director Bennett on their successful elections,” said General Manager John Thiel. “Their continued commitment to public service and to those they represent is admirable and I look forward to our continued success and working together on behalf of our community.” At the December 5 board meeting, Director Greg Young and Director Dan Jenkins were both reconfirmed to serve as Board President and Board Vice President respectively. “I am deeply humbled that my colleagues and constituents have once again put their trust in me to lead this Board,” said Board President Greg Young. “Being able to continue serving among the same board will ensure continuity of effective leadership for the District.” For more information about WVWD, its board members of its commitment to the community it serves, visit wvwd.org.

# # #

The West Valley Water District has proudly served the Southern California communities of Bloomington, Colton, Fontana, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Jurupa Valley since 1952. Through name changes and consolidation, the mission has always remained the same: to provide customers with safe, high quality, and reliable water service at a reasonable rate and in a sustainable manner. The District provides water for over 100,000 customers and is overseen by a five-member, publicly elected Board of Directors.  

TUD and Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians Announce Completion of Nine Sisters Tank Project

Tuolumne Utilities District (TUD) and the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians (Tribe) are pleased to announce the successful completion of the Nine Sisters Tank Project. This collaborative effort enhances water supply reliability and fire flow capacity for the Tuolumne Rancheria and surrounding areas.

The project involved the construction of a 400,000-gallon welded steel water storage tank on the Tuolumne Rancheria which will not only serve the Reservation but also benefit portions of TUD’s Ponderosa system. The tank is connected to the existing TUD water distribution pipelines, ensuring improved water supply reliability and fire protection for the community.

The Tribe secured grant funding to finance the construction of the tank, which was provided in full or in part from the Budget Act of 2021 and through an agreement with the State Department of Water Resources. The Tribe oversaw construction of the tank, working collaboratively with TUD to ensure it was built to TUD’s standards. The project included comprehensive soil analysis, grading, plumbing, piping, coatings, electrical service, and telemetry to ensure the tank’s full operational capacity. Upon completion, the District will assume responsibility for the tank’s maintenance and operation.

“We are committed to ensuring a dependable water supply for residents of the Rancheria, as well as securing adequate and reliable fire flow for use in defending our community from the threat of fire,” said Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians Chairman Kevin Day. “The collaborative partnership with TUD was integral in completing this important work.”

“We are thrilled to see the completion of the Nine Sisters Tank Project,” said Don Perkins, General Manager of TUD. “This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between the Tuolumne Utilities District and the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians. The successful completion of this project underscores the importance of partnerships in achieving common goals and enhancing community resilience. “

MSWD Receives Prestigious Award of Merit from the National Clay Pipe Institute

Mission Springs Water District is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Award of Merit from the National Clay Pipe Institute (NCPI). This recognition highlights MSWD’s commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking water management and infrastructure development practices.

The Award of Merit is presented to organizations that demonstrate exceptional application of life cycle analysis, environmental stewardship, and innovative maintenance strategies. MSWD was honored for its strategic use of vitrified clay pipe in its wastewater infrastructure projects, a decision that underscores its dedication to long-term environmental and operational excellence.

“This award attests to the exemplary judgment demonstrated by MSWD leadership in applying the principles of life cycle analysis, environmental impacts, and maintenance options realized by the selection of vitrified clay pipe,” said National Clay Pipe Institute President Jeffrey J. Boschert.

Vitrified clay pipe, known for its durability, sustainability, and low environmental impact, is critical in ensuring efficient wastewater management. By choosing this material, MSWD has optimized its infrastructure’s performance and reinforced its commitment to the environment and the community it serves.

“Receiving this award is an honor and a testament to the hard work and vision of our team at MSWD,” said General Manager Brian Macy. “We are committed to implementing solutions that not only benefit our District but also support broader environmental goals.”

MSWD remains steadfast in its mission to provide reliable, high-quality water and wastewater services while promoting sustainability and innovation. The District looks forward to continuing its leadership in adopting practices that benefit the community and the environment.

For more information about Mission Springs Water District and its award-winning initiatives, please visit www.mswd.org/awards.

Photo (L to R): MSWD General Manager Brian Macy, Assistant General Manager Marion Champion, Operations Director Danny Friend, Interim Chief Plant Operator Andy Grunnet at the National Clay Pipe Institute holiday luncheon on December 5, 2024.

Local Water Agencies Launch Tri-Valley Water Conservation Art Contest

TRI-VALLEY – The Tri-Valley’s water agencies – Zone 7 Water Agency (Zone 7), the cities of Livermore and Pleasanton, California Water Service Company (Cal Water), and Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD), are excited to announce the first annual Tri-Valley Water Conservation Art Contest for K-12th-grade students. This year’s theme, “Habitat Heroes: Transforming Lawns into Vibrant Native Gardens”, encourages students to let their imagination “go wild” by creating artwork showcasing how replacing thirsty lawns with California native plants can conserve water, support biodiversity, and build healthier habitats. Submissions may include photography, painting, digital artwork, and more! “This contest empowers students to use their creativity to inspire change in our community,” said Valerie Pryor, Zone 7 General Manager. “By creating art that showcases the beauty and benefits of native gardens, students will help inspire families to consider replacing their lawns with sustainable habitats that conserve water and support local wildlife, encouraging a deeper connection to the environment, and a lasting impact on water conservation.” The Water Conservation Art Contest originated as a collaboration between Cal Water and the City of Livermore for Livermore students. This year’s contest marks the first time the competition has been expanded to the entire Tri-Valley, allowing Pleasanton, Dublin, and Dougherty Valley students to enter. Inspiring students as water champions The Tri-Valley Water Conservation Art Contest aligns closely with Zone 7 Water Agency’s broader educational program to empower students as stewards of California’s water resources. Reimagined for the 2023-24 school year to reengage schools in proactive water education, the Zone 7 Water Academy introduces interactive, standards-aligned lessons taught by certified educators that inspire lifelong water champions. From Transitional Kindergarten to high school, these lessons provide hands-on, academically rigorous activities, including water cycle models and stories about saving water, to spark curiosity and understanding. The art contest extends this mission, providing students with a creative outlet to apply their knowledge and advocacy while fostering a shared commitment to sustainability and equipping young leaders to address pressing water challenges today and in the future. Learn more about Zone 7’s Water Academy Program at https://www.zone7water.com/water-academy. Contest Details: For more information on how to participate and resources to inspire student artwork, visit www.zone7water.com/artcontest.

###

About the Tri-Valley’s Water Agencies Zone 7 Water Agency treats and manages water supplies for eastern Alameda County, including the city limits of Livermore, Pleasanton, and Dublin and the Dougherty Valley area of San Ramon. Drinking water service is provided to these regions by the Tri-Valley’s water retailers – Cal Water, the cities of Livermore and Pleasanton, and DSRSD.

Three PWD Board Incumbents Begin Four-Year Terms After Being Sworn In

PALMDALE – Palmdale Water District (PWD) Board Directors Kathy Mac Laren-Gomez, Scott Kellerman and Cynthia Sanchez started new four-year terms after taking their oaths of office Monday night. They were individually sworn in by attorney Pam Lee of Aleshire & Wynder, PWD’s legal counsel.  In the November elections, President Mac Laren-Gomez won her seat with 4,388 votes, or nearly 78%, against challenger Brian Uribe, while Director Sanchez received 4,838 votes, or 76%, against opponent Linda Godin.  Director Kellerman was unopposed in the election. “I am honored to be re-elected and will continue to advocate for all PWD ratepayers,” said President Mac Laren- Gomez, who represents Division 4.  “I am committed to ensuring that we have the resources to provide clean water for our community, now and in the future.” President Mac Laren-Gomez is serving her fourth term.  Elected to the Board in 2011, she works in business development for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers/National Electrical Contractors Association/LMCC. Appointed by the PWD Board to fill a vacant position in April 2022, Director Kellerman was not on the November ballot due to running unopposed.  He is co-owner of Antelope Valley Harley-Davidson. “It was a relief to not have an opponent,” he said.  “It gave me more time to do my job as a Director.  I’m grateful to retain my seat and continue representing Division 1.” Director Sanchez was appointed to the Board this past February to fill a vacant seat in Division 3.  A healthcare provider for most of her career, she has been a nurse at Kaiser Permanente for the past four years. “I am very pleased to have been elected to continue representing Division 3,” Director Sanchez said.  “It’s a wonderful feeling to have the support of my constituents.  I look forward to serving my first full term on the Board.” 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.

###