TUD Completes Critical Fuels Reduction Project
Tuolumne Utilities District (TUD) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the TUD Critical District Fuels Reduction (Phase 2) Project, which reduced hazardous fuel loading around the Twain Harte Wastewater Treatment Facility.
The $160,522 project, funded by a grant from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Climate Investments Wildfire Prevention Grant Program, treated 22.2 acres around the critical wastewater infrastructure using a combination of hand thinning and mastication. This strategic effort has made the facility more resilient and better able to withstand a wildfire event, demonstrating TUD’s ongoing commitment to community goodwill by enhancing safety and resilience for not only the facility, but the surrounding residential area. “TUD sees investing in critical infrastructure protection as a key strategy for building community wildfire resilience,” said TUD General Manager, Don Perkins.
The TUD Critical District Facilities Fuels Reduction Project is part of the district’s broader efforts to reduce community wildfire risk and protect its water and wastewater infrastructure. The district aggressively seeks grant funding to fund much needed projects like this, with the completed project being the second CAL FIRE grant-funded project the district has undertaken which included performing fire protection and resiliency on eight critical water storage facilities throughout the TUD service area in a year. Additionally, the district is currently working with a consultant to develop a Wildfire Defense Plan and a Wildfire Protection Draft Points Plan, both grant funded and focused on wildfire risk for TUD water systems and surrounding lands. Key objectives include mapping essential district, community, and natural resources and identifying and prioritizing specific locations and opportunities to manage the system for protecting water resources and community assets. The Draft Points Plan will evaluate water draft points of raw-untreated water and determine the highest priority locations for water drafting to enhance community wildfire protection.
Brad Koehn Appointed General Manager at TID
Groundbreaking Marks the Start of JCSD’s Recycled Water Project Construction
JURUPA VALLEY – A groundbreaking ceremony held by the Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) marked the start of construction for the JCSD Regional Recycled Water project, which plans to deliver 350 million gallons of recycled water – enough to offset our local supply of drinking water for more than 3,000 homes per year. Recycled water, also called reclaimed water, is treated wastewater that is safe to use to irrigate landscaping, certain crops, parks, schools, golf courses, and for various commercial and industrial uses. The event welcomed over 20 public agencies and dignitaries, including remarks by California Senator Richard Roth, Senator Jim Brulte (Ret.), and a video message from Riverside County Supervisor Karen Spiegel. The groundbreaking was held at JCSD’s American Heroes Park in Eastvale, which will receive recycled water for irrigation. Distribution of recycled water is expected to begin by late 2026, and available to certain public entities, schools, and businesses that meet the required criteria near the distribution pipeline. An interactive construction map was unveiled and is accessible via the following link: JCSD’s Regional Recycled Water Pipeline Is Set to Begin Construction! – Google My Maps . This resource provides real-time updates as construction spans throughout the cities of Eastvale and Jurupa Valley. Construction to install the purple pipeline will begin with a pump station at the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority (WRCRWA) wastewater treatment plant in Eastvale. A recycled water conveyance system will stretch from the plant to irrigation customers throughout JCSD’s service area. Purple-colored pipes are used to transport recycled water, which avoids potential cross-connection with drinking water pipes. Strict federal and state regulations ensure that recycled water is treated and monitored to meet all public health and safety guidelines. “The purple pipe system is a safe way to reuse water, our most precious resource,” said JCSD President Bart Moreno. “This regional project makes a sustainable investment for future generations by protecting our water supply against drought and other potential impacts from elements we cannot control.” “JCSD proactively sought grant funding and leveraged our regional partnerships to secure more than $33 million in grant funding plus $ a low-interest loans,” added JCSD General Manager Chris Berch. “These funding sources offset project costs to help minimize the financial impact on residents from this investment in our water supply.” For more information, visit www.JCSD.us/RecycledWater###
Founded in 1956, the Jurupa Community Services District is a public agency providing services and programs to Jurupa Valley and Eastvale. It is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of five elected representatives from both cities. Serving over 130,000 people in a 40-square-mile area, JCSD provides a variety of community services and programs, including water, sewer, streetlights, frontage landscape maintenance, graffiti abatement, and parks and recreation services.Media Contact Arman Tarzi Manager of Government & Public Affairs Outreach@JCSD.us
June 2024 Priority Issues Update Now Available
The June 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 the climate resilience bond, Bay-Delta Plan, Proposition 218 legislation and more.
The new and previous Priority Issues Updates can be found here.
Small Water System Support Yields Critical Improvements in Banning
BEAUMONT – In its latest gap funding effort, San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) will aid High Valleys Water District (HVWD) as the water retailer upgrades essential infrastructure along Twin Pipes Road. These improvements ensure adequate fire flows, maintain consistent pressure throughout the system, and facilitate the construction of new homes on vacant property.
HVWD received Proposition 1 Integrated Regional Water Management Plan (IRWM) grant funds through the Department of Water Resources (DWR) in January 2024. The project will include upgrading the approximately one mile of existing two-inch pipeline mains to eight-inch, installing hydrants every 500 feet, and connecting 12 new meter connections to the newly realigned main along Twin Pipes Road.
“We are happy to continue supporting small water systems like HVWD through our gap funding assistance,” SGPWA Board President Mickey Valdivia said. “Their work ensures stability and water security for the Pass area. This partnership is beneficial for the whole region.”
SGPWA’s gap funding program enables small water systems to use state funds when they lack financial reserves to handle the up-front costs of accepting grants. Contractors, for example, need to be paid at the time of construction while grant reimbursement can be stalled for more than six months. SGPWA’s gap funding ensures steady progress on vital infrastructure strengthening the region.
HVWD is part of a series of successful gap funding partnerships, starting with Cabazon Water District in 2022. In March, the SGPWA Board of Directors agreed to provide $10.2 million in gap funding assistance to South Mesa Water Company (SMWC) for the County Line Pipeline Replacement Project. This work was integral to the County Line Road Project, a joint effort between SGPWA, SMWC, and the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District (SBVMWD). The County Line Road Project will recharge up to 1,500 acre-feet of State Water Project water in the Calimesa area for the Yucaipa Sustainable Groundwater Management Agency — enough to serve about 18,000 people a year.
HVWD expects to complete the project along Twin Pipes Road by the end of 2024. Learn more at www.sgpwa.com.
About San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency
Formed in 1961, SGPWA is a State Water Project (SWP) 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 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.
Littlerock Dam Celebrates 100th Anniversary
PALMDALE – With the serene blue water of the reservoir serving as the backdrop, nearly 100 dignitaries, community members and water agency staff gathered this past weekend to commemorate Littlerock Dam’s centennial. Palmdale Water District (PWD) and Littlerock Creek Irrigation District (LCID) hosted the celebration on June 1 to mark the exact day 100 years ago that the state of California gave permission for the Littlerock Dam to begin service. For the past century, the dam has continuously provided water for PWD and LCID customers while also controlling floods. “What an honor it was to celebrate the Littlerock Dam’s very important milestone with everyone,” said PWD Board President Kathy Mac Laren-Gomez. “It was a day to remember those who built the dam 100 years ago and our predecessors who made all the right decisions to keep the dam in working condition. We also heard verbal commits to re-open the area for recreation, which I wholeheartedly support.” Attendees included California Senator Scott Wilk, who recalled many visits to the Littlerock Dam as a child with his father, and Assemblymember Tom Lackey. They joined Assemblymember Juan Carrillo’s field representative in presenting PWD and LCID with a Joint Resolution from the Legislature. The offices of U.S. Congressman Mike Garcia and Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger also provided a certificate and scrolls, respectively, from their representatives. Following all the speakers’ support for re-opening of the dam, San Gabriel Mountains National Monument Manager Matthew Bokach told the crowd that his office is working hard to see the popular landmark open for recreation. Since 2015, it has been closed by the U.S. Forest Service because of health and safety issues. PWD General Manager Dennis D. LaMoreaux briefly shared the dam’s history while welcoming the guests. “We need to recognize and remember the Bent Brothers and their staff of skilled workers,” LaMoreaux said. “It’s hard for us to imagine what equipment and methods they used to build this immense structure in just two years. What we can see is its enduring quality and workmanship. Despite the required changes over the past century, the original dam still holds the water needed to serve our communities.” For the past century, the Littlerock Dam and Reservoir has played an important role in the growth and success of Palmdale, Littlerock and other communities in the southern Antelope Valley. It was built on Little Rock Creek to store water for agricultural use and provide some flood control. Construction of the Littlerock Dam began in 1922 and was completed in two years. Plans for the dam began six years earlier in 1918 when the Palmdale Water Company, PWD’s predecessor, and LCID hired engineer John S. Eastwood to design a 182-foot-tall, multi-arch dam on Little Rock Creek with a capacity to hold 7,460 acre-feet of water. It would be the tallest multi-arch dam in the country. Following the official program, guests enjoyed lunch provided by Smash Bros. food truck and cold treats from Kona Ice. PWD also had historical photos of the dam displayed, a painting of the Littlerock Dam by former PWD Director Gloria Dizmang and a plaque commemorating the 100th anniversary. 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.###
Congresswoman Torres Presents Check to MVWD for Pipeline Replacement
MONTCLAIR – U.S. Representative Norma Torres (CA-35) presented a $959,757 check to Monte Vista Water District (MVWD) on Wednesday for the State Street Pipeline Replacement Project – Phase II. This project will replace 12,240 linear feet of aged, undersized, steel water distribution pipeline that has experienced multiple leaks resulting in disrupted service in the area. “Inland Empire families know the importance of clean, affordable, and efficient water systems to keep our families safe and our communities thriving. That is why I am proud to deliver $1 million of federal funding to the Monte Vista Water District through our most recent community project funding efforts,” said Congresswoman Norma Torres. “This critical funding will invest in a new major water pipeline to prevent leaks causing damage to the roads in the area and major water loss. Recent storms exacerbated stressors on the existing water systems in our communities and this investment will future-proof our most vulnerable pipes to maintain access to safe drinking water throughout the Inland Empire.” The current pipe, constructed of bare or galvanized steel, was installed between the late 1950s and early 1960s to support the water demand based on the City of Montclair’s general plan at the time. This area has seen significant urban growth which means the pipelines are undersized for current and future demand, and the materials have exceeded their life expectancy of 30 to 50 years. “The communities served by MVWD have seen tremendous growth since we were founded in 1927,” said Sandra S. Rose, MVWD Board President. “We are committed to providing high-quality drinking water to our customers, and it is critical to address aging infrastructure to ensure a reliable water supply. We are incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Torres for selecting this project for Community Project Funding in this year’s government funding package.” The State Street Pipeline Replacement Project – Phase II is part of an ongoing project to replace aging pipeline infrastructure. Old, steel distribution pipes will be replaced with new polyvinyl chloride (PVC), larger diameter pipelines that have a service life of 100+ years. Additionally, this project will address water quality and flow restrictions caused by pipe corrosion. The overall project will consist of eight locations in Montclair, bordered by Grand Ave. to the south, Vernon Ave. to the east, Orchard St. to the north, and Mills Ave. to the west. Since the project will occur in narrow roadways with high-volume traffic, most of the work will be conducted at night to minimize traffic impacts.###
Federal Investment Funds California Surface Storage Projects
The Department of the Interior has announced a $242 million investment as part of President Joe Biden’s Investing in America agenda that will bring clean, reliable drinking water to communities across the West through five water storage and conveyance projects.
The projects in California, Colorado and Washington are expected to add at least 1.6 million acre-feet of additional water storage capacity, enough water to support 6.4 million people for a year.
The funding package includes two California surface storage projects involving ACWA member agencies:
- B.F. Sisk Dam Raise and Reservoir Expansion Project — $75 million for the enhancement of off-stream storage capability. The project is in addition to the B.F. Sisk Safety of Dams Modification Project already underway and is in partnership with the San Luis and Delta-Mendota Water Authority.
- Sites Reservoir Project: — $67.5 million for the off-stream storage project that will develop up to 1.5 million acre-feet of new water storage on the Sacramento River system located in Northern California.
TID General Manager Michelle Reimers Announces Departure
TURLOCK – Turlock Irrigation District General Manager, Michelle Reimers, has announced her resignation effective June 21, 2024. Reimers has served as General Manager since January 2020. “It has been an honor and privilege to lead the organization I have called home for the past 18 years. I am proud of the progress that we have made as an organization, and I believe that TID is well positioned to continue to meet our mission of providing reliable and affordable water and power for years to come.” Reimers, who started her career at TID in 2006 working in public information, led with a focus on transparency, collaboration, and a commitment to customers throughout her career at TID. Reimers held various leadership roles at the District, ultimately becoming the first woman general manager in the agency’s 137 year history. Reimers is known for her tenacity in tackling problems pragmatically and encouraging an environment of collaboration. Reimers’ leadership helped influence the widespread understanding of the benefits of public power and the importance of efficient, data-driven water and energy management through advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels. During her tenure as General Manager, Reimers focused on ensuring our community’s water supply future through negotiating a Voluntary Agreement for the Tuolumne River and filing for new water rights to capture flood flows to enhance our water resources. She focused on improving the customer experience through launching the customer portal MyTID.org for electric customers and the development of online grower tools for irrigation customers. As a professional communicator, Reimers represented TID on numerous association boards and frequently, through political testimonies, advocated on behalf of the needs and interests of TID’s customers. “Michelle has been a tireless advocate of our community and has always led with the customer in mind. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Michelle for her dedication to the organization, its customers, and the community.” stated TID Board President, Ron Macedo. The TID Board of Directors is appreciative of Reimers commitment to a smooth transition while they consider the next General Manager for the organization.###
About the Turlock Irrigation District (TID) Established in 1887, the Turlock Irrigation District (TID) was the first irrigation district in the state. Today it is one of only four in California that also provides electric retail energy directly to homes, farms, and businesses. TID delivers irrigation water through over 250 miles of a gravity-fed canal system that irrigates approximately 150,000 acres of farmland. TID owns and operates an integrated and diverse electric generation, transmission and distribution system that provides power to a population of 240,000 within a 662 square-mile area. With a drive towards innovation, TID has been a leader in new initiatives and data-driven practices to provide value to its customers. For more information about TID visit TID.org, follow @TurlockID on social media platforms and subscribe to TID Water & Power Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.Sites Would Be 100% Full at Close of 2023-‘24 Wet Season
SACRAMENTO —The Sites Project Authority (Authority) announced May 28 that at the close of this storm season, Sites Reservoir could have captured in excess of 1.5 million acre-feet of water from early 2023 through April 2024. Based on an analysis of 2023 flows and significant storms this year, it is estimated that Sites Reservoir would be at full capacity today.
“We’re seeing that Sites would perform as expected during these wet years, saving us much needed new water supply for the dry years,” said Fritz Durst, Chair of the Sites Project Authority Board of Directors. “If Sites were operational today, the project beneficiaries would be heading into summer with additional stored water that they could manage and use when they need it. Having that extra savings account can make a huge difference during dry years that we know are coming.”
Sites Reservoir is specifically designed to capture and store water generated during wet periods, like the atmospheric rivers that seasonally make landfall in California, to increase water flexibility, reliability, and resiliency in drier years. Estimates show that since January 2024, Sites Reservoir would have diverted and captured about 840,000 acre-feet of water. This would have been in addition to the about 700,000 acre-feet diverted and captured last year, resulting in a full reservoir headed into this summer.
A single acre-foot of water is enough to exceed the average annual indoor and outdoor water use of one to two California households, according to the Water Education Foundation. The analysis shows that Sites could be filled by safely and protectively diverting a relatively a small portion of Delta outflow, leaving a significant amount of water in the Sacramento River, which then flows into the Delta and serves environmental and other purposes.
“The computer simulations we are able to run on the current, real-world conditions show that Sites will increase water reliability for California and help address the challenges of climate change,” added Durst. “We have some big milestones coming over the next year, and we are getting closer to putting shovels in the ground to build this generational project.”
Sites is an off-stream reservoir proposed north of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, where it would provide unique water supply and environmental benefits during dry periods, especially during extended drought. Additional information can be found at sitesproject.org/ or on Facebook and Twitter at @SitesProject.