Yuba Water, UC Davis and Others Move Forward with Plans for Collaborative Research Center
Yuba Water Agency, the University of California, Davis, the City of Wheatland and Beale Air Force Base signed a memorandum of understanding today outlining plans for future projects and a collaborative, applied research facility in Yuba County. The partnership aims to address regional challenges such as flooding, wildfire, emergency response, agricultural technology, and water and energy management by leveraging each organization’s expertise. Initial projects already underway include training artificial intelligence to analyze large datasets for rapid decision-making during emergencies, like a pandemic or natural disasters. “This is an exciting opportunity to bring forth new ideas and extend the impact to our community through a collaboration amongst organizations with shared goals and complimentary expertise,” said Cristina Davis, associate vice chancellor for research at UC Davis. “In particular, I think the potential advancements related to energy and environmental resilience could have tremendous impact addressing the critical challenges faced by our region and help to bolster the local economy.”Plans for a future applied research center
Beale Air Force Base, the largest employer in Yuba County, serves as a growing hub for research and development in national defense and space systems integration. UC Davis, ranked #6 overall among U.S. public universities, conducts research confronting today’s most pressing challenges. Yuba Water Agency is recognized for its leadership in sustainable natural resource management and flood risk reduction, while the City of Wheatland is focused on expanding employment and development opportunities as one of Beale’s closest neighbors. “It’s rewarding to see this partnership come to life knowing all the good things it means for our agency and our communities,” said Jon Messick, Yuba Water’s board chairman. “The research center will give us access to world-class researchers and technologies to tackle challenges like reducing flood risk while also supporting regional economic development and creating high-quality jobs and internships.” Sacramento-based AKT Investments has pledged land in Wheatland for the future research center. Yuba Water and the City of Wheatland have formed the Yuba Applied Research Center nonprofit to accept the donation and secure funding for future projects. The center will operate virtually until a facility is built. The proposed location is approximately five miles from Beale Air Force Base. The benefits of its close proximity creates enhanced security, access to a skilled workforce, improved logistics, technology partnerships and a stronger local economy. “Beale Air Force Base is committed to our local community through the development of a collaborative research facility in Wheatland to support Homeland Security and National Defense, said Col. Keagan McLeese, 9th Reconnaissance Wing commander. “We look forward to working together to drive innovation, create new opportunities and build a strong foundation for a sustainable future.” This new agreement builds on a memorandum of understanding signed last year by Yuba Water, the City of Wheatland, and the Center for Information Technology Research in the Interest of Society and the Banatao Institute. Yuba Water has committed up to $360,000 over two years to support research efforts, including the use of advanced sensing technologies at various levee sites to enhance monitoring during high water events. These efforts will transition to the Yuba Applied Research Center once it becomes operational. ABOUT THE MOU SIGNATORIES Based in Yuba County, Beale Air Force Base is home for the U-2 Dragon Lady and T-38 Talon. Beale’s mission is to deliver persistent, integrated reconnaissance and combat power for our nation. At any given moment, day or night, twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, there is probably a 9th Reconnaissance Wing aircraft flying an operational mission somewhere in the world. The University of California, Davis was founded in 1908 to serve the state of California. Today, the seed that was planted those years ago has grown into one of the world’s top universities. Ranked #1 in the nation for agriculture and veterinary medicine, and with over a billion dollars annually in research funding, researchers at UC Davis are unlocking insight and solutions that prepare our world for a better tomorrow. Yuba Water Agency is a stand-alone public agency dedicated to serving the people of Yuba County through its missions of flood risk reduction, water supply reliability, Yuba River fish habitat protection and enhancement, hydroelectric power generation and recreation at New Bullards Bar Reservoir. In addition to serving Yuba County through its core missions, each year, Yuba Water invests significant revenue back into the community through its Community Impact Grant and Loan Program. Incorporated in 1874, the City of Wheatland is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, maintaining a rich history while building a bright future. The city maintains many of the special qualities that still give it that “small-town feel,” while still keeping an eye on the future. In 2014, Wheatland annexed approximately 4,500 acres, creating tremendous opportunity for new employment and housing investments in the region. The city is also making significant infrastructure improvements such as water service upgrades, increased sewer capacity and improved traffic circulation.Agencies Collaborate to Provide Spawning Habitat for Endangered Salmon
REDDING — Efforts to provide spawning habitat for endangered winter-run Chinook salmon in the upper reaches of the Sacramento River continue with the Sacramento River Settlement Contractors, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation placing more than 20,000 tons of gravel downstream of the Keswick Dam in Redding.
The gravel project at Keswick Dam is part of a larger watershed-wide rehabilitation and restoration program implemented by the Sacramento River Settlement Contractors, which is funded by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Additional partners involved in the Keswick gravel injection project include the City of Redding, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sutter Mutual Water Company and Reclamation District 108.
“This gravel is critical for all four runs of Chinook salmon that utilize the Sacramento River,” said Matt Johnson, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Environmental Scientist, in a news release. “Water flows will push the gravel downstream over time, providing spawning habitat in a vital stretch of river these fish depend on. We want to ensure these fish have the greatest chance to reproduce and it is projects like this allow us to increase the odds of success.”
This gravel augmentation project will add to the more than 50,000 tons of rock placed in the upper reaches of the Sacramento River since 2022.
“When multiple public and private agencies come together, we can have a positive impact on our native fish species,” said Roger Cornwell, Sacramento River Settlement Contractors Board President, in the news release. “The gravel project is one of two-dozen habitat improvement efforts undertaken by landowners and public agencies to help provide a working river system that benefits fish, wildlife and people the year round.”
Watch the work underway at: https://youtu.be/IUAp3o9ZefE
ABOUT THE SACRAMENTO RIVER SETTLEMENT CONTRACTORS
Sacramento River Settlement Contractors (SRSC) are dedicated to providing reliable, affordable water supplies to their landowners and water users, while ensuring the environmental and economic viability of the region. Among the largest irrigation districts in the Sacramento Valley and with senior water rights, they have a long history of serving farmers and the agricultural community and maintaining critical wildlife habitat. The member districts fulfill their mission of efficiently and effectively managing and delivering water through an ever-improving delivery system and responsible policies, while maintaining a deep commitment to sustainable practices. Looking ahead, the SRSC will remain focused on continuing to deliver a reliable and sustainable water supply by positioning themselves to respond proactively, strategically and responsibly to California’s ever-changing water landscape. For more visit https://www.sacvalleywater.com
Sweetwater Authority Hosts Stanford on Climate Change Solutions
CHULA VISTA – Last Friday, Sweetwater Authority (Authority) hosted fifteen students and faculty from Stanford University’s the Bill Lane Center for the American West as part of the university’s multidisciplinary course of study on “Coastal Resilience: Problems and Solutions to Extreme Weather Challenges on the West Coast.”
The students and faculty first toured the Robert A. Perdue Water Treatment Plant and Sweetwater Reservoir, where they learned how the Authority secures and treats local water, maintains a historic dam and manages watershed activities for the beneficial use of agency operations and the protection of environmental resources.
The group then visited the Richard A. Reynolds Groundwater Desalination Facility in Chula Vista. There, the students and Authority representatives discussed challenges facing groundwater supplies as a result of climate change before touring the award-winning facility.
“The challenges presented by climate change as it relates to providing a sustainable and drought-proof water supply are great, and we need the brightest minds working to ensure long-term resilience for the western region,” said Board Chair Paulina Martinez-Perez. “It was our honor to host the Stanford group and engage in these important discussions with the next generation of leaders.”
In its vision to become a leader in sustainability and the fight against climate change, the Authority’s Governing Board sets objectives within the agency’s Strategic Plan to work toward achieving carbon neutrality. Current fiscal year objectives include implementing a Green Fleet Plan, installing EV stations at its facilities, and exploring
green energy solutions like a proposed floating solar project at Sweetwater Reservoir to reduce costs and offset carbon generated as part of water agency operations. For more information, visit www.sweetwater.org/workplan.
Sweetwater Authority is a public water agency providing safe, reliable water to National City, Chula Vista and Bonita.
Innovative Project Enhances Regional Water Quality and Safety
BEAUMONT — In June 2024, San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) launched an advanced algae abatement project in collaboration with EarthTec to address harmful algal blooms (HABs) within the State Water Project (SWP) conveyance system. This initiative aims to safeguard clean, quality water for the community.
Close monitoring of the conveyance system over multiple months revealed increased HABs of concern, believed to be exacerbated by high nutrient concentrations, intense sunlight, warm water, and prolonged droughts. These conditions create an ideal environment for harmful blue-green algae that produce cyanotoxins and pose significant health risks to humans and animals.
SGPWA worked with Beaumont Cherry Valley Water District (BCVWD) to install more than $19,000 worth of equipment at the Mountain View Turnout. This included a custom Conex box for $6,600, a 275-gallon EarthTec tote for $5,225, Carson manhole covers for $5,043, new electrical conduits and wiring for $1,480, and safety supplies and signage totaling $688. Through this strategic partnership, SGPWA was able to significantly reduce the overall cost of the project by utilizing external support. BCVWD staff provided labor hours, assisted in operating heavy equipment, and helped cover other incidental expenses, ultimately saving SGPWA’s ratepayers thousands of dollars in additional expenses.
“When we identify a challenge, we take action immediately. By leveraging state-of-the-art solutions like EarthTec, we are protecting and enhancing water quality, protecting public health, and paving the way for long-term ecological resilience,” said SGPWA Board President Mickey Valdivia. “This project demonstrates our dedication to forward thinking and securing a sustainable water future for our community.”
The active ingredient in EarthTec, cupric ion (Cu2+), is a highly effective form of copper that controls algae and bacteria and significantly enhances overall water quality. Following the EarthTec system installation, SGPWA will actively collect data and monitor this project to keep the community informed and involved in its development.
SGPWA is proud to have the support and techniques needed for a swift and efficient response to HABs. This project is one of several initiatives that SGPWA is actively involved in to protect our water supply and best serve the community. Through proactive stewardship and inventive solutions, the Agency continues to prioritize the well-being and sustainability of our region.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in community discussions. For more information, visit www.sgpwa.com.
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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.
Rancho Water Named 2024 Large Business of the Year by Local Chamber
MURRIETA — Rancho California Water District (Rancho Water/District) is proud to announce that it was recently named as the 2024 Large Business of the Year at the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards ceremony, held on September 14, 2024. The prestigious award recognizes excellence in business practices, community engagement, and leadership within the region. Rancho Water emerged as the winner among dozens of highly respected companies competing for the title.
John Rossi, Rancho Water Board President expressed his gratitude and pride in the recognition: “This award is a testament to the dedication of our entire team and their commitment to serving the community with excellence. We are proud to be part of the Murrieta community that values innovation, sustainability, and partnership.”
Rancho Water’s General Manager, Jason Martin, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration: “Rancho Water is honored to be recognized among so many outstanding businesses. Our focus has always been on working for our community by providing forward-thinking water solutions, adapting to the evolving needs of this diverse area, and being a productive partner to our cities of Murrieta and Temecula. This award reflects our high value on community and leadership.”
The Large Business of the Year award recognizes organizations that deliver exceptional contributions to their industry, a commitment to leadership and training, and active involvement in community initiatives. Rancho Water’s recent accomplishments, including the expansion of the regional CropSWAP program, a management leadership and mentorship program aimed at professional development, and its engagement in important legislative advocacy for its region, have solidified its reputation as a collaborative, community-focused utility provider.
For more information about Rancho Water and its services, please visit RanchoWater.com.
Regional Water Authority Releases Video on In-Lieu Recharge
The Regional Water Authority (RWA) has released a new video that explains in-lieu recharge, a vital process that has been the backbone of groundwater replenishment in the Sacramento region for over two decades. This process not only preserves groundwater for future use but also allows groundwater supplies to naturally increase within our aquifers.
Titled “In-lieu Recharge: Enhancing Nature’s Rainy Day Fund,” the video describes how in-lieu recharge provides an opportunity to utilize excess river and lake water —water that might otherwise be lost—to replenish groundwater resources. You can find the video here.
During wet periods, excess surface water is delivered to customers who usually receive groundwater. By reducing groundwater use, aquifers naturally refill as rainwater and stormwater seep into the soil, increasing groundwater supplies deep below our feet.
“In-lieu recharge blends managed and natural processes to assist Mother Nature in replenishing groundwater,” said Jim Peifer, Executive Director of RWA, which represents nearly two dozen water providers serving 2.2 million people in the Sacramento region.
“Because it incorporates natural recharge, this water storage process may seem less visible than reservoirs, spreading basins, or injection wells,” Peifer added. “But it is widely acknowledged, with decades of practical application and a documented history of successfully replenishing groundwater basins in the Sacramento region and other parts of California.”
Advancing in-lieu recharge is critical for adapting the region’s water system to climate extremes of hotter, drier, and wetter rain-driven conditions. The existing water management system was not designed to handle these challenges characterized by climate change.
In-lieu recharge has already proven effective, as demonstrated by rising groundwater levels in the Sacramento region, even after 20 years of megadrought. There is significant potential to expand this success, and doing so will require extensive planning and investment from water providers, even though the process leverages natural systems.
Local water providers are expanding in-lieu recharge by reoperating existing infrastructure through the Sacramento Regional Water Bank. “For our region, in-lieu recharge is the most cost-effective, scalable, and technically feasible method for recharging groundwater,” said Peifer. “With the continued advancement of in-lieu recharge and the successful operation of the Water Bank, we are well-positioned to address the challenges of climate change and secure a sustainable water future for our community.”
The Regional Water Authority (RWA) is a joint powers authority representing nearly two dozen water providers serving 2.2 million people in the greater Sacramento region. Formed in 2001, its primary mission is to help its members protect and enhance the reliability, availability, affordability and quality of water resources. Learn more at rwah2o.org. Learn more about the Water Bank at SacWaterBank.com.
Jason Martin Selected as New General Manager for Rancho Water
The Board of Directors of the Rancho California Water District (Rancho Water/District) has officially appointed Jason Martin as the new General Manager, effective immediately. This decision comes after an extensive selection process, following Mr. Martin’s successful term as Interim General Manager since June 1, 2024.
Mr. Martin, who has been with Rancho Water since 2006, previously served as the Assistant General Manager and Director of Administration. During his tenure, he oversaw key departments including customer service, IT, administration, and water use efficiency. His strong leadership and innovative approaches have played a vital role in the District’s success and community impact.
Board President John Rossi expressed his support of the Board’s decision, stating, “Jason has years of experience leading teams at Rancho Water and has consistently demonstrated his dedication and leadership during his time with the District. His deep understanding of Rancho Water’s operations, combined with his forward-thinking approach, makes him the ideal choice to take on this important role. We are excited that one of our own Rancho Water staff is prepared to lead us into the future.”
Upon accepting the position, Mr. Martin shared his enthusiasm for the new position: “Stepping into this role is a true privilege. I look forward to working closely with the Board, our staff, and the community to ensure Rancho Water continues to lead the way in sustainable water management, innovation, and service excellence.”
Throughout his career at Rancho Water, Mr. Martin has spearheaded several key initiatives, including the regional CropSWAP program, a groundbreaking initiative which offers significant financial incentives for implementation of sustainable practices, with the goal of empowering farmers to use water more efficiently while fostering a resilient agricultural economy. In addition, Mr. Martin has led the way on the Water Resource Program, a series of infrastructure construction projects which will expand the District’s groundwater banking capacity and allow Rancho Water to purchase lower-cost water as a regional investment in long-term water supply storage.
For more information about Rancho Water, please visit us at RanchoWater.com.
CSDA “Innovative Project of the Year” Award Presented to Rancho Water
TEMECULA — The Rancho California Water District (Rancho Water/District) was this year’s recipient of the Innovative Project of the Year Award from the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) for its development of an innovative well depth measurement system (WDMS). The award was presented at the CSDA Annual Conference and Exhibitor Showcase in Indian Wells, California on September 11, 2024.
Rancho Water’s WDMS is a groundbreaking system that significantly improves upon traditional well depth measurement methods – an important tool for monitoring water levels in drought-prone California. Traditional practices, such as manual sounding, require significant human labor, are susceptible to inaccuracies, and necessitate frequent maintenance. The WDMS, developed by Rancho Water’s Electrical Services department, automates the well depth measurement process, thereby eliminating the inefficiencies and limitations of manual methods.
Following prototype development and implementation, the WDMS is now functional in many of the District’s wells and in consistently delivering precise and reliable water measurements. It offers a cost-effective, accurate, and low-maintenance solution to well monitoring that is scalable and easily integrated into existing wells. The District plans to share its design with other water agencies so they may replicate this solution for their own water infrastructure.
“The district is quite impressed with our team for devising this innovative idea, which goes above and beyond their usual responsibilities,” Rancho Water General Manager Jason Martin said. “The Electrical Services team not only had the vision to conceive this idea but also the dedication to successfully implement it. Their extraordinary effort surpasses all expectations.”
The CSDA Innovative Project of the Year Award is given on an annual basis to special districts in recognition of programs and projects which have shown originality, produced tangible results, and decreased district costs while creating value and enhancing quality of service. The CSDA represents more than 1,300 organizations throughout California including water districts, parks, libraries, community services, and more. Find more information about the CSDA at csda.net.
Helix Water District recognized for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Helix Water District is the recipient of the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the district’s fiscal year 2024-25 budget document. This is the highest award in governmental budgeting. The district has won this prestigious award three years in a row.
“The district’s board of directors and staff are committed to transparency, fiscal accountability and integrity,” said Helix Water District Board President Dan McMillan. “It is our responsibility to be good stewards of ratepayer dollars. We work hard to ensure that our customers know how we are controlling costs and what their rates are paying for.”
Producing the budget takes coordination from the entire organization. The document gives residents and businesses within the district’s service area a clear picture of the district’s operating costs and financial outlook.
GFOA is a nonprofit association of public finance officials in U.S. and Canada that establishes accounting standards and best practices for federal, state and local government. The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award recognizes budgets that serve as a public agency’s policy document, financial plan, operations guide and customer communications. To win the award, budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories and in the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories.
Over 1,800 public agencies participate in the budget awards program. You can find the most recent budget award recipients posted quarterly on GFOA’s website at gfoa.org.
September 2024 Priority Issues Update Now Available
The September 2024 Priority Issues Update is now available online to members.
The update is a summary of the latest developments on issues of interest to ACWA members. This issue contains information on AB 2257, direct potable reuse and more.
The new and previous Priority Issues Updates can be found here.