CALIFORNIA
SAN GABRIEL VALLEY SPRING 2026 EDITION
ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE LOS ANGELES TIMES. Supplement did not involve the editorial or reporting staff of the Los Angeles Times.
Californians to tighten the tap every time a drought shows up, especially when we know another one is coming. So what do we do? We get serious about flexibility. That means modernizing and stabilizing big systems like the State Water Project. It means smarter Delta conveyance that allows us to move water with fewer environmental disruptions. It means investing in storage, especially underground, where depleted aquifers can become an asset again. And it means having honest conversations about how large statewide projects and local resilience efforts work together, what they cost, and the value they provide. Progress is happening. We have the data. We know the strategies, and they’re not new. What we can’t afford is delay or finger-pointing between agencies and regions. When that happens, ratepayers and communities pay the price. California has always argued about water. But innovation, transparency, and collaboration can move us forward and help ensure every Californian has reliable access to clean, safe water in a climate that’s anything but predictable.
GUEST COLUMNIST
DWR Director Karla Nemeth Outlines California’s Water Challenges By Elizabeth Smilor Executive Editor
Water Reality Check
By Charley Wilson, I f it feels like California’s water conversation is getting more complicated and more urgent, you’re not wrong. As Karla Nemeth, Director of the California Department of Water Resources, shares in this issue, we are living with hard realities that are no longer
theoretical. Precipitation is more volatile. Temperatures are higher. Snowpack is peaking earlier or barely forming at all. These aren’t future scenarios to plan for someday. They’re happening now, and they’re challenging a water system built for a very different climate. Here’s the uncomfortable truth: California is on track to be short roughly 9 million acre-feet of water by 2040. And while conservation will always matter, we can’t keep asking
C alifornia’s water future in one word: “Innovative.” California Department of Water Resources Director Karla Nemeth says state and regional leaders must innovate to secure a resilient water supply for all people and the environment for the next 100 years. “If we do nothing, things will get worse and worse for Californians,” Nemeth said in an extensive interview with Southern California
weather and to meet the needs of people and nature.” Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan), which has 26 member agencies serving 19 million people, created
Charley Wilson is the Executive Director of the Southern California Water Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to informing Californians about our water needs and resources.
its Climate Adaptation Master Plan for Water as a roadmap to “invest wisely, act decisively, and stay ahead of climate threats to every part of our supply,” said General Manager Shivaji Deshmukh. “It’s not a choice between new infrastructure or smarter operations — we need both. We must reinvest in our existing infrastructure and protect our imported supplies, while also accelerating investments in conservation and storage, and advancing local, climate-resilient projects, like recycled water,” he said. “At the same time, our teams are continuously innovating to push our water system to perform smarter and more strategically based on a range of conditions and the needs of our communities. We’re moving water in ways we never have before, and building new flexibility into our system so that we can adapt to constantly evolving challenges.” Nemeth, Deshmukh and San Gabriel Valley water managers agree that coupled with flexibility, cooperation throughout the
Water Coalition (SCWC) Executive Director Charley Wilson. “Every time we have a drought, we can’t just ask Californians to conserve. How do we save water for the drought we know is coming? The most affordable way is to optimize our existing system, then look at things to do to expand the system.” For the whole of Southern California, about 30% of water supply comes from Northern California via the State Water Project (SWP) and 20% from the Colorado River via the Colorado River Aqueduct. Both water delivery systems face hydrologic changes — decreased snowpack, earlier snowmelt and more intense storms — and aging infrastructure. “One word solves two problems: flexibility,” Nemeth said. “We need flexibility to respond to hydrologic volatility and we need flexibility to move water to where it’s needed as it is needed. Our water infrastructure was built in a different era. Community needs have changed. We need to make our backbone water systems more flexible in the face of extreme
Publisher
Chris Lancaster Elizabeth Smilor Scott Pasewalk
Executive Editor
Art Director
CALIFORNIA WATER is published by Civic Publications, Inc. ©2026. For comments or questions, email Chris Lancaster at chris.lancaster@civicpub.com www.civicpublications.com
Chief Strategist and Consultant
Mary Lou Echternach
Government Affairs Consultant
Cathleen Galgiani Steven Georges
Photographer Videographer
Mik Milman Multi-Media Journalist Julia Deng Contributors Charley Wilson Amy Bentley
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From Nemeth, Page 3
Sheryl Shaw, retired WVWD General Manager and Chief Engineer. “As imported supplies become less predictable, strengthening local resilience and planning ahead is essential. Our priority is ensuring our communities continue to receive safe, reliable water at a cost that remains responsible for ratepayers.” California Senate Bill 72 is the state’s updated water plan. At the center of SB 72 is an interim statewide planning target of 9 million acre-feet by 2040, which is the amount of water supply California could lose as climate change reduces snowpack and intensifies drought. That target is roughly equal to two Shasta Reservoirs, or enough for 18 million homes, according to DWR. SB 72 guides supply, conservation, recharge, and storage strategies. San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (SGVMWD) is a State Water Contractor like Metropolitan and relies on the SWP for the supplemental water it provides for more than 200,000 people. “Today’s drought conditions require a different mindset than
state and region is imperative. “We’re planning knowing that imported supplies from both the Colorado River and the State Water Project will be less reliable and more expensive going forward,” said Tom Love, General Manager of Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (Upper Water). “That’s why we’re prioritizing diversified supply strategies, regional coordination, and investments that strengthen local resilience. The future depends on flexibility and multiple options — not a single source.” Upper Water is a Metropolitan member
valuable as new infrastructure,” said Matt Litchfield, Three Valleys Chief Engineer and General Manager. One of Three Valleys’ members is Walnut Valley Water District (WVWD), which provides drinking and recycled water to about 100,000 people through imported supplies. “Walnut Valley Water District is focused on long- term reliability through
and wholesale water supplier for 18 cities and portions of unincorporated Los Angeles County with almost 1 million residents. Another Metropolitan member and wholesaler is Claremont-based Three Valleys Municipal Water District (Three Valleys), which has 13 members serving about 500,000 people. “We’re investing in both infrastructure and smarter operations, but flexibility is becoming the real advantage. Better interconnections, real-time operational coordination, and system efficiency allow us to respond faster when supplies fluctuate. In today’s climate reality, adaptability is just as
past dry years because the uncertainty is long-term,” said SGVMWD General Manager Jose Reynoso. “We’re making decisions earlier, strengthening regional partnerships, and treating drought preparedness as a permanent operating condition. The focus now is on reliability and readiness, not reaction.” Nemeth agrees that the most affordable solution is to optimize
a balanced approach of conservation and operational efficiency,” said
California Department of Water Resources Director Karla Nemeth (center) addresses news media on April 1 alongside Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager Andy Reising (left) and Public Information Officer Jason Ince. Photo by Melissa Sanchez Robinson/DWR.
(Left to Right) Laura Hollender, Deputy Director for Flood Management and Dam Safety at the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Karla Nemeth, Director of DWR, and Mark Pestrella, Director of Los Angeles County Public Works, participated in a briefing at the Pasadena Rose Bowl staging area before touring the Eaton burn scar. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has deployed Watershed Protection Specialists to supervise the placement of materials aimed at protecting the watershed in the Palisades and Eaton burn scar areas of Los Angeles County. Photo by Ken James / DWR
existing systems with the SWP at the center because it provides water for 27 million Californians. The The Delta Conveyance Project (DCP) would divert water through a tunnel around the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta, rather than relying solely on pumps in the Delta that have to be turned down in large storm events to protect migrating salmon. However, along with infrastructure updates, innovative storage and recycling efforts are necessary. Sites Reservoir would create 1.5 million acre-feet of off-stream storage for dry years for communities, farms and protected wildlife areas. “We have to understand how these big projects interact with smaller local resilience projects and have a real conversation of
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DWR Director Karla Nemeth speaks at a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the beginning of operations for California Department of Water Resources Big Notch Project. Photo by Andrew Nixon / DWR
OVER 60 YEARS of Water Recycling
From Nemeth, Page 5
“While we’ve made major progress cleaning up contamination in the San Gabriel Basin, emerging contaminants like PFAS are driving new treatment challenges and costs.” The Basin along with all the agencies that hold water rights would also benefit from Pure Water Southern California, a massive joint water recycling project by Metropolitan and the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts that would include a pipeline to the Basin. At full buildout, the Carson facility would produce up to 150 million gallons per day, enough water to meet the annual needs of about 500,000 homes — the largest in the U.S. “Given the ongoing drought affecting the Colorado River and the uncertain supplies from the State Water Project, the importance of the Pure Water Southern California project is steadily growing,” said LACSD General Manager Robert Ferrante. “The state has provided funding to support planning and preliminary design efforts. It is hoped the state will maintain its support under the new administration.”
the cost and the value,” Nemeth said. In the San Gabriel Valley, about 80% of the water supply for about 1.5 million people is stored in the Main San Gabriel Groundwater Basin. The Main San Gabriel Watermaster administers the Basin’s water rights, and manages and protects the supply. “One major risk is the assumption that groundwater can always fill the gap when imported supplies decline” said Watermaster Executive Officer Kelly Gardner. “Groundwater is a critical resource, but it must be carefully managed and recharged to remain sustainable over the long term.” Gardner also points to contamination challenges in the Basin. The San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority (WQA) was established by the state legislature in 1993 to coordinate groundwater cleanup after industrial contaminants were discovered. “Groundwater reliability depends on water quality as much as supply,” said WQA General Manager Randy Schoellerman.
Partially treated wastewater at Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant in 1962. OVER 1 TRILLION GALLONS RECYCLED
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In Los Angeles County, about half of our drinking water comes from wells pumping up groundwater and the remainder is imported from hundreds of miles away—from the Colorado River and Northern California. In 1962, our Whittier Narrows Water Reclamation Plant began producing recycled water that is used to refill our groundwater basins. Since then, we have been recycling at 10 of our 11 wastewater treatment plants and, along with our water agency partners, have recycled over 1 trillion gallons. That’s enough water to fill an 8-foot diameter pipe that circles the earth 23 times! This recycling reduces the need to import water and makes our region more sustainable. Nonetheless, we are striving to do more. We have partnered with the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California on a project to reuse the water from our 11th treatment plant. This project could produce enough water for 1.5 million people, making it one of the world’s largest water recycling projects. For more info, contact us at info@lacsd.org or 562-908-4288, ext. 2301, or visit us at www.lacsd.org/waterrecycling.
LACSD SanDistricts SanitationDistrictsLACounty www.lacsd.org
Water percolating into the ground to refill a groundwater basin.
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PCL Construction Builds a Sustainable Water Future By Amy Bentley, Contributor
PCL Construction’s Water Reuse Projects
Treasure Island Water Resource Recovery Facility in San Francisco, California: PCL Construction is currently building the new Treasure Island Water Resource Recovery Facility, which replaces aging infrastructure and meets the island’s future wastewater and recycled water needs. Originally constructed in 1961, the existing plant became outdated and under-sized. The new facility will have an annual average wastewater treatment capacity of 3.9 million gallons per day for Treasure Island and adjacent Yerba Buena. It will also have an annual average recycled water treatment capacity of 0.4 million gallons per day for Treasure Island. Completion is expected by the end of this year. The significance of this San Francisco Public Utilities Commission project extends beyond the immediate need for upgraded infrastructure. The island is projected to gain 20,000 residents by 2036 – eight times its current population, and this new facility will play a crucial role in meeting the wastewater treatment demands of this expanded community. Half of the treated wastewater produced by the facility will be recycled for irrigation, lawns, landscaping, and community parks. This state-of-the-art facility will replace the existing plant and include a range of advanced processes to ensure efficient and effective treatment. Aligned with the Envision ® Sustainable Infrastructure Framework, awarded to infrastructure projects that excel in sustainability, resilience, and equity, this project set ambitious
Ventura Water Reclamation Facility in Ventura, California: P CL Construction began construction in September 2025 on a transformative upgrade to the Ventura Water Reclamation Facility, marking a major step forward in sustainable water treatment for the city of Ventura. This project will replace aging secondary, tertiary, and disinfection systems with new Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) and Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection technologies. These improvements will enhance nutrient removal and overall treatment performance, supporting cleaner water, healthier ecosystems, and long-term regulatory compliance. During preconstruction, the team identified an alternative site within the facility that offers better construction access and fewer conflicts with existing infrastructure. This strategic pivot enables the team to maintain the original timeline while delivering substantial cost savings to the city. This project offers a perfect example of the many benefits of pre-construction work. “We thoroughly evaluated the original site, but persistent construction challenges were driving up costs,” said Jon Merryman, PCL Project Manager. “Relocating the project within the facility allowed us to streamline construction, preserve the schedule, and deliver significant savings to the city.” The project is scheduled for completion in December 2030.
A s Southern California faces growing pressure from uncertain Colorado River and Northern California supplies, increasing water demand, and the urgent
background and oversees major civil infrastructure projects across the western United States, including complex water/wastewater and utility construction work
need to develop more reliable local water sources, companies like PCL Construction are playing a critical role in helping water agencies build the next generation of water infrastructure projects that will strengthen the region’s long-term water sustainability and resiliency. An award-winning company with large financial and staffing resources, PCL has decades of experience delivering complex, large infrastructure projects and extensive experience with progressive design-build. This delivery model allows for optimal collaborative development and is increasingly being used by public and private entities as the best way to complete a large complex project – on time and on budget. “PCL has been a large plant builder across the nation for over 40 years,” said Ankur Talwar, PCL’s Civil Division district manager, who has a chemical and professional engineer
Continue Projects, Page 11
PCL is especially proud of its extensive work building massive water infrastructure projects and its strong relationships with many of Southern California’s large water agencies. “When government teams up with large, experienced builders like PCL for the public good, it’s government at its best,” Talwar said. Today, many water agencies and municipalities worldwide are prioritizing water reuse for a sustainable and reliable water future. In the era of persistent droughts and high water-use data centers, drought mitigation and water reuse are critical. For Southern California and the West, water reuse has become even more essential as future water allocations from the Colorado River will likely be reduced because it is already at a dangerously low level. The State Water Project (SWP) is
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From PCL, Page 8
the Water Collaborative Delivery Association, and the WateReuse Association, where he collaborates on advancing innovation in infrastructure delivery. Talwar’s expertise in progressive design-build and pre-construction services has resulted in clients getting the project they envisioned – not more, not less, with top-quality work, on budget and on schedule. Through early collaboration and phased
also under stress as climate change has resulted in longer wet and dry periods and an earlier snowmelt. Several wastewater recycling projects are in development in the Southern California region. These would increase water resiliency, help replenish
From Projects, Page 9
and reliability of the local water supply by including a new and truly sustainable water source. It will provide a buffer during peak summer demand to compensate for unreliable surface water deliveries and reduce groundwater pumping to help preserve aquifers. Pure Water Center is scheduled to open in 2028. “EPWater is proud to partner with PCL on this transformational water reuse project for our community,” said Gilbert Trejo, EPWater Vice President of Operations and Technical Services. “Their expertise, technical knowledge, and proven experience in complex infrastructure construction give us great confidence as we work together to deliver the state- of-the-art Pure Water Center that will strengthen El Paso’s long-term water resilience and sustainability.” Pure Water Center will also feature a state-of-the-art visitor center offering educational opportunities to learn about water sources, water supplies, environmental stewardship, and advanced water treatment processes.
goals related to neighborhood outreach, waste reduction, habitat restoration, and emissions and energy reduction. The goals were exceeded, earning the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission an Envision Platinum Award for the new facility. The award recognizes projects that demonstrate exceptional environmental, social and economic benefits. This is only the second wastewater treatment plant in California to earn this award. “The Treasure Island Water Resource Recovery Facility represents a significant stride towards a greener future, with improved aesthetics, increased capacity, and advanced treatment processes,” said Richard Hewitt, Vice President and District Manager of PCL’s Civil Infrastructure Division.
groundwater basins, and create a new local water supply – important goals PCL has advanced in its water infrastructure projects. PCL has undertaken numerous large-scale water reuse projects that align with California’s long‑term drought mitigation strategy and efforts to shore up regional water source reliability. “The water community is such a wonderful space,” Talwar said. “The work water agencies’ staffs, boards, leaders, and stakeholder groups are doing to advance water sustainability and reliability is tremendous. I give them a lot of credit. Their leadership and forward thinking are critical and appreciated. They are challenging us to collaborate with them to design and build water solutions and we are excited to meet that challenge.” Expertise and Leadership in Progressive Design-Build Talwar brings over three decades of experience in civil infrastructure development and construction to his role and focuses on sustainable water infrastructure solutions — particularly ensuring access to safe water through advanced water and wastewater projects. He is active in industry associations such as the Design Build Institute of America,
design development, the progressive design-build model can help address challenges sooner, streamline the decision-making process, and move construction forward more efficiently. “Trust and providing value during pre-construction is crucial,” Talwar explained. “Much of the work we do is to provide value during the pre-construction phase, whether it’s supporting the client with permits and studies they need, or providing significant savings to the project. When we work in a collaborative environment, we meet the client’s actual needs. We work together to meet expectations, solve any problems that may arise, and stay on schedule and on budget.”
PCL Construction Named to Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For ® List for the 17th Year!
Flythrough rendering of Pure Water Center by Carollo Engineers
Pure Water Center in El Paso, Texas: In February 2025, El Paso Water broke ground on the Pure Water Center, the first direct-to-distribution, direct potable reuse facility in the United States, that will deliver high- quality drinking water across El Paso. The Pure Water Center will receive treated water from the Roberto Bustamante Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is currently used for irrigation and discharge to the Rio Grande. This water will undergo a multi-step advanced purification process to exceed drinking water quality standards before distribution to customers. PCL/Sundt Joint Venture is leading the construction of Pure Water Center, which will provide an additional 10 million gallons of drinking water per day directly to El Paso residents. Once the Pure Water Center is complete, the facility will supplement existing water sources, increasing the diversity
Awards Recognize PCL Construction’s Excellence
Great Place To Work® and Fortune media recognized PCL as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® in 2026. This award was announced in April and it’s PCL’s 17th time being named to this prestigious list, this year coming in at 91. In addition, last year, PCL was recognized in Engineering News-Record’s 2025 Regional Best Projects and Excellence in Safety & Sustainability competitions, earning eight awards nationwide. The diversity and impact of these projects reflect PCL’s commitment to delivering meaningful work across a wide range of communities. Engineering News-Record’s annual Best Projects program is one of the industry’s most prestigious award platforms. An independent panel of architecture,
Salt Lake City New Water Reclamation Facility in Salt Lake City, Utah: PCL Construction is building the Salt Lake City New Water Reclamation Facility which is rated to treat an average of 48 million gallons of water per day once completed and will have the ability to expand capacity in the future. This project is the largest public works project ever undertaken by the City of Salt Lake Department of Public Utilities. The project is on track to achieve Envision Platinum certification, a sustainability rating system that has become prominent in civil infrastructure projects. Completion is expected later this year.
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3 Key Facts About Our Groundwater
Morris Dam
msgbwatermaster
We All Have A Role In Its Care
Watermaster Protects Vast Groundwater Basin By Elizabeth Smilor, Executive Editor
than they do. Flood Control’s job is to protect life and property, but they have worked with us since the 1970s to hold as much water here without putting
As Water Awareness Month closes, we’re sharing the story of 3 key facts about our groundwater:
Fact 1
anyone at risk,” Gardner said. “They capture 95% of all rainfall in this watershed because we have soft bottom channels. Other areas, including the Los Angeles River, have concrete channels for flood control. A 95% capture rate is unheard of anywhere else in the County.” Gardner was appointed executive officer for Watermaster in March 2025 and for the Raymond Basin Management Board in January 2023. She previously held the position of assistant executive officer for both agencies and has more than 35 years of water management and resource planning experience in the region. She oversees groundwater quality and supply management activities as well as administration of the Basin’s groundwater adjudication. She directs staff functions associated with basin management as it directly relates to groundwater production, well construction, groundwater treatment and resource planning. “Mrs. Gardner’s 15 years of dedicated service to Watermaster have equipped her with the knowledge and expertise necessary to effectively manage the Basin’s groundwater quality and supply initiatives in accordance with the judgement,” said Watermaster Board of Directors Chair Lynda Noriega. Watermaster has a nine-member board with each member
100% of us in the San Gabriel Valley depend on our groundwater every day. We are 1.5 million people who are connected to this one source of water. From the San Gabriel Mountains to the Puente Hills, our groundwater is our common ground and common cause.
I n terms of water supply, Kelly Gardner says the San Gabriel Valley won the “geographic lottery” — making the region more sustainable and resilient. “Under our feet is a groundwater basin that can hold about 8.6 million acre-feet of water and it is replenished via the protected spreading grounds at the 605/210 freeway interchange,” said Gardner, Executive Officer of the Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster that administers the Basin’s adjudicated water rights. “When the water is in the groundwater table it’s safe. It doesn’t evaporate. It doesn’t suffer from a potential dam failure or other disruptions.” The Main San Gabriel Groundwater Basin provides about 80% of the water supply for more than 1.5 million residents in the San Gabriel Valley. The water that is held more than 100 yards below the surface over approximately 167 square miles is mostly local — from rainfall, snowmelt and conservation. A smaller portion is imported from Northern California via the State Water Project (SWP). While Watermaster, formed in 1973, manages the Basin, the Santa Fe Spreading Grounds are maintained by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District. “I often say that we care more about the spreading grounds
Fact 2
80% of the water we use every day in the San Gabriel Valley comes from groundwater. It supplies most of the water needed for every shower, cup of coffee, dishwasher and hose. That groundwater is held deep down underground in the Main San Gabriel Basin.
Fact 3
100% of the time, our groundwater is in a drought cycle. When you replace the idea of being in or out of drought with being in a constant drought cycle, it’s clear why our care of our groundwater must be constant, too.
Watermaster is here for our groundwater and for you. To know more about the Main San Gabriel Basin, please visit: thewatersthatconnectus.com
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Walnut Valley Water District New Headquarters Boosts Safety, Community Engagement
By Amy Bentley Contributor
meetings, and public engagement events can be held. Design elements like skylights for natural light, open office areas, outdoor seating spaces, shade structures, and thoughtful landscaping reflect the district’s connection to water and the environment. The project architect was La Cañada Design Group. “This has been decades in the making,” said WVWD retired General Manager and Chief Engineer Sheryl Shaw, who recently retired after 25 years with WVWD. “We’re elated because we are helping our employees and also the community that we serve. Our employees are working in a safe space that is accessible and designed to support collaboration. When you invest in your people, they show up stronger for each other and the community.” Shaw especially enjoys how the architectural features and design evoke the feeling of flowing water, from the curved wall designs in the interior lobby to the exterior entryway, where free-hanging aluminum square panels look like ripples of water in the wind and take on different color hues in varied lighting conditions. “We see this new headquarters as a foundation for deeper community connection,” said Lily Lopez, Director of Affairs &
T he Walnut Valley Water District (WVWD) invites the community to join in celebrating the opening of its new headquarters, a project that was years in the making and reflects the district’s strategic investment in modern facilities to better serve customers, the community and support district operations. The headquarters was built on land already owned by the water district and represents a milestone achievement that will enhance organizational efficiency and community engagement. The new headquarters is a more modern, efficient, and welcoming space for employees and the public. The headquarters opened in January at 235 S. Brea Canyon Road in Walnut. WVWD’s previous administrative offices were built in 1952, when the district was formed, and had not been updated previously. The project repurposed existing warehouses into a modern office and community-oriented building with an elegant customer service lobby, expansive conference and boardrooms, and community spaces where workshops,
From left: Retired WVWD General Manager and Chief Engineer Sheryl Shaw, WVWD Board Members; Director Scarlett Kwong, Assistant Treasurer Theresa Lee, President Jerry Tang, Second Vice President Edwin M. Hilden, First Vice President Henry Woo; and Interim General Manager Jared Macias.
Sustainability. “As a community anchor, it allows us to bring people together, share knowledge, and build trust in meaningful ways. It’s about creating a place where our community feels welcomed, informed, and part of the bigger picture.” WVWD Board President Jerry Tang emphasized the importance of having a safe and accessible workplace for employees and the public. Tang noted that the old building did not have an elevator or escalator to reach the second floor, lacked earthquake safety measures, and lacked modern security systems. “The old building was obsolete. A safe workplace is our primary concern,” he said. Plans were already underway for the new headquarters when Bertha Perez joined the water district about three years ago as Director of Engineering. Perez is grateful she got to be involved in the construction. “We were long overdue for a new building,” Perez said, adding that the board room was too small,
the building didn’t meet Americans with Disability Act (ADA) standards, and loose carpet was a tripping hazard. Manny Rodriguez, Water Maintenance & Facility Manager, said, “This building brings a lot of pride not only to our team members but to the community. We’ve been operating out of some pretty outdated buildings. To see something come to fruition this large that will affect our community is a big deal.”
The project was the first phase of a broader campus development, laying the foundation for future additions like an Operations & Maintenance building remodel and a new drought-tolerant community garden focused on water education and sustainability. “This is a long-term project for our next generation,” Tang said. The WVWD provides safe and reliable water to nearly 100,000 residents and businesses across the city of Diamond Bar and portions of Walnut, Rowland Heights, Pomona, City of Industry, and West Covina. Visit https://walnutvalleywater.gov.
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SUMMER CONSERVATION TIPS FOR THE SAN GABRIEL VALLEY
From Watermaster, Page 8
“Sustainability is something we all have to consider,” Gardner said. “When we do have rain, it rains a lot for a short period of time, and we have to capture that water. You can’t plan for the weather fluctuations, but you have to prepare for them.” That unpredictability is why Watermaster and many San Gabriel Valley water agencies support Pure Water Southern California, a Metropolitan and Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts joint recycling project that would include a pipeline to the area. “All our imported water comes from Morris Dam
serving a one-year term. Six members are elected by water producers directly, two members are appointed by the Board of Directors of the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (Upper Water), and one member is appointed by the Board of Directors of the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (SGVMWD). Upper Water and Three Valleys Municipal Water District are members of the
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan) that holds a SWP contract to bring imported water to the
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the SWP. If there is a disaster and fresh water stops flowing through the Delta, we can’t filter degraded water into the system, or we might not even be able to convey it here,” Gardner said. “Pure Water is the only source of new water available to the region. It’s water that otherwise would be disposed of. It would be fully treated and then percolated into the spreading grounds.” A new local source to this Basin could
region. SGVMWD is a smaller SWP contractor and brings water into the Basin via a different system, offering operational flexibility, Gardner explained. “These three agencies, called Responsible Agencies, serve an important role in the Basin as they
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CONSERVATION PROGRAMS, VISIT: UPPERWATER.ORG
TIP #1: Sprinkler Smart Check
Properly aimed sprinklers can cut outdoor water waste by up to 50%. Replace broken or clogged heads to keep your system efficient.
provide supplemental imported water to meet replacement obligations as well as cyclic storage deliveries,” she said. Watermaster also partners with the San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority (WQA)
result in more supply for SWP-dependent areas that have had hefty usage restrictions during droughts. Through conservation, San Gabriel Valley water use has declined by more than 20%. “Conservation alone is not the answer,” Gardner said. “There’s only so much conservation we can do while still maintaining a lifestyle we’re accustomed to. In the San Gabriel Valley, we are a suburban community with outdoor spaces. I think the bottom of conservation has been reached. I don’t think there’s any more we can give without risking more.” Even with conservation and education, she says many users don’t understand the real cost of water. “The public looks at water as a natural resource and thinks it should be free. I don’t disagree with that, but getting it to them safely and drinkable is where the cost comes in,” Gardner said. “You have to understand that everything comes with a cost and everything costs more today. Just because you’re using less water at your house, doesn’t mean that the treatment to make it safe for you is less.” Overall, Gardner is optimistic about the future of water in this “geographic lottery” winning region, primarily because of the partners in caring for the groundwater basin. “Our coordination with our partners is our biggest success,” Gardner said, adding that private and municipal water producers have different priorities, but work together well. “In the end, we all aim to bring safe, clean water to customers.”
that was formed in 1993 by the California Legislature to coordinate Basin cleanup after industrial contaminants were discovered in the groundwater. “WQA plays a huge role in the cleanup because they have successfully lobbied for funding from elected officials and have secured money from responsible parties for the cleanup efforts. Watermaster is only legally able to educate, not procure funds,” Gardner said. Under the court ruling, Watermaster is charged with managing the Basin and has annual obligations for the accounting of water rights and safe practices. Watermaster sets a yearly Operating Safe Yield (OSY) that establishes the amount of groundwater that can be withdrawn from the Basin without creating a replacement obligation or long-term damage. The groundwater level is measured regularly from a designated location called the “Key Well.” The current level is about 263 feet, which is above the operating range of 200-250 feet above sea level. Watermaster worked with Metropolitan to import more water during several wet years, but that reserve could be threatened by current challenges. The immediate issue is Los Angeles County’s imposed stop on SWP water deliveries because of the intrusion of the Golden Mussel that can damage supply infrastructure. Gardner is working with all the partners to resolve the issue and retain adequate supply. Longer term, changing weather cycles are creating uncertainty in local and imported supply.
TIP #2: Stop Sneaky Leaks
A small irrigation leak can waste hundreds of gallons over the summer. Look for dripping valves or soggy spots and fix issues early.
TIP #3: Go Native, Save Water
Native and drought ‑ tolerant plants use a fraction of the water traditional lawns need.
Ed Chavez Treasurer Division 3
Katarina Garcia President Division 4
Charles Treviño Director Division 2
Dr. Anthony Fellow Vice President Division 1
Jennifer Santana Secretary Division 5
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THREE VALLEYS MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT
From Nemeth, Page 6
Nemeth, who worked with both Gov. Jerry Brown and Gov. Gavin Newsom, has witnessed many changes, challenges,
“There’s very little stability right now in our climate and precipitation is unpredictable. So, every year is a new challenge. Those new challenges really do two things: They highlight the deficiency of our system,
and accomplishments in state water policy. She is optimistic that SB 72 will guide the administration of the next governor, to be chosen by voters this November.
which is painful. And if we don’t have a comprehensive strategy to respond to those conditions, it gets challenging to keep people working together. It’s hard to tell people in the throes of a water emergency that we’re getting to it,” Nemeth said. “There’s a human instinct to find the one thing or the one person that’s going to solve our problems. I think the path to success is more comprehensive. We need deep reflection on our institutions about the role we can play and how we show up to start addressing these issues.”
“Governors don’t necessarily come in with a water agenda, though they often
arrive with infrastructure agendas that include water,” said Nemeth. She added that a good understanding of water is necessary. “Everyone has lots of expectations of a governor when it stops raining.” SB 72 gives both the legislative and executive branch ownership of a useful and relevant state water plan, Nemeth said. However, a delay in progress by a new administration carries serious risk.
Karla Nemeth
From PCL, Page 10
Learn more about PCL at https://www.pcl.com/us/en.
engineering, and construction experts reviewed over 200 entries nationwide. Judges evaluated each project based on its ability to overcome challenges, contributions to the industry and community, safety performance, and construction and design quality. In Arizona, the 24th Street Water Treatment Plant Rehabilitation project, delivered by PCL Construction as Construction Manager at Risk in partnership with Carollo Engineers for the City of Phoenix, was named the Arizona Water Association’s 2026 Water Treatment Project of the Year. The award was announced this spring. It recognizes excellence in water infrastructure projects that demonstrate innovation, technical complexity, and a lasting benefit to the community. The 24th Street Water Treatment Plant Rehabilitation project strengthens the City of Phoenix’s water system resilience, helping mitigate the impacts of prolonged drought conditions and reductions to Colorado River water supplies. This spring, PCL Construction was a triple winner at the Canadian Construction Association National Awards ceremony held March 13. The annual awards recognize excellence, safety, and leadership in the industry. PCL received awards for Environmental Achievement, Excellence in Innovation and the Young Leader Award. PCL was recognized for its exemplary environmental work for a 10-story, net-zero mass timber educational facility, Limberlost Place in Toronto. PCL’s Beeline (digital construction optimization suite) was recognized for advancing innovation within the industry.
George Brown College’s (GBC) Limberlost Place
Three Valleys Municipal Water District's mission is to supplement and enhance local water supplies to meet our region's needs in a reliable and cost-effective manner
909 - 621 - 5568
www . threevalleys . com
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WQA BOARD MEMBERS
programs in the San Gabriel Basin, which is the primary source of drinking water for over 1 million people across the San Gabriel Valley. In 1979, industrial solvents and other contaminants were identified in the groundwater in the San Gabriel Valley. The contamination at the site is believed to be the result of decades of improper chemical handling and disposal practices. As a result, water suppliers had to shut down wells and large portions of the Basin were placed on the federal Superfund cleanup list in 1984. The WQA was created to manage and coordinate the cleanup with local, state and federal agencies. Funding for the cleanup has come from the responsible parties along with government funds. The cleanup cost to date has totaled about $1.1 Billion.
Lynda Noriega Chairwoman
Robert Gonzales Vice Chairman
Cleanup of the Contaminated San Gabriel Basin Continues With Critical Federal Support From left: WQA Vice Chairman Robert Gonzales, WQA Secretary Valerie Muñoz, Congressman Gil Cisneros, WQA President Lynda Noriega, WQA Board Member Ed Chavez
Valerie Muñoz Secretary
Bob Kuhn Treasurer
T he San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority (WQA) wishes to thank Congressman Gil Cisneros for supporting the ongoing groundwater cleanup in the San Gabriel Basin. On May 5, Rep. Cisneros presented WQA officials with a $3.2 million check from the Federal Government to continue the WQA’s important work. While Federal Funds have been authorized for the Basin Cleanup, a member of Congress each year must request an appropriation. “We just want to do our part to make sure that you get the money and the resources you need to make sure you are able to protect the groundwater and make sure it’s safe for the people here in the San Gabriel Valley,” said Cisneros, who represents California’s 31st Congressional District (about 750,000 constituents in Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Glendora, City of Industry, Irwindale, La Puente, La Verne, Monrovia, San Dimas, South El Monte and West Covina, plus several unincorporated neighborhoods). Cisneros visited the WQA offices to present officials with the check.
“Water is definitely one of the most important issues. It is something we all in a way take for granted,” Rep. Cisneros said. “We expect our water to be safe when we drink it, when we turn on the faucet, when we are using it. But if it isn’t, then that’s when it becomes a problem,” he said. “Fortunately, we’ve been able to make sure we are keeping the water safe so that people can drink it and use it. We don’t ever want to get in that spot where it is unsafe.” Continued federal funding is critical to complete the ongoing cleanup. WQA Chairwoman Lynda Noriega said, “This is going to go a long way to again having the San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority assist the producers with the cleanup efforts of this basin. It’s an ongoing effort that’s been going on for almost 30 years now and this $3.2 million is going to make that even more of a reality as we continue to do the work in this basin.” The California Legislature established the WQA in 1993 to develop, finance and implement groundwater treatment
Ed Chavez Board Member
Robert DiPrimio Board Member
Congressman Gil Cisneros & WQA Chairwoman Lynda Noriega
Watch the Interview with Lynda Noriega. youtube.com/watch?v=oazZ4tXyv2w
(626) 338-5555 info@wqa.com www.wqa.com
Watch the Interview with Gil Cisneros. youtube.com/watch?v=dNzb18-oUhU
Mark Paulson Board Member
Randy Schoellerman Executive Director
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Inform Engage Connect
Learn How Wastewater Becomes Drinking Water
Civic Publications Produces Videos for Public Agencies
GREEN GLOW-UP: NEW WATER HUB SUPERCHARGES SUSTAINABILITY
Why Video? Video turns government communication into something clear, engaging, and memorable. It helps your agency inform the public, highlight results, and strengthen confidence in the work you do. Increase Community Awareness of Services Many residents don’t know what services are available—from emergency preparedness and public works to water, parks, housing, and public safety. Video helps you reach more people faster. Improve Public Engagement People scroll past flyers and long reports—but they stop for video. Social media, websites, city council meetings, and email newsletters all become more powerful when video is included. Highlight Accomplishments and Progress Capital projects, community programs, infrastructure improvements, environmental initiatives—video makes results visible. It helps the public see progress, not just hear about it. Support Public Meetings and Presentations A short, professional video can summarize complex projects and make public hearings easier to understand, improving participation and reducing confusion.
NO DIRTY DEED: WHO CLEANS YOUR WASTEWATER?
Did you know that California now has some of the world’s strongest rules for direct potable reuse? Watch how advanced purification makes safe, great tasting drinking water.
The Southern California Water Coalition and its sponsors present Renewed: The Journey to Safe Drinking Water , a four-minute animated video that has been viewed more than 2 million times since its release in March 2026. The video illustrates how advanced purification technology accelerates the Earth’s natural water cycle, transforming wastewater into a pure, safe, and reliable drinking water source. Brought to you by Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Eastern Municipal Water District, HDR, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, Parsons, WateReuse, Inland Empire Utilities Agency, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District, Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, Moulton Niguel Water District, WateReuse California, Carollo, and Black & Veatch.
BACK TO THE FUTURE: REVVING UP LA’S ECONOMIC ENGINE
Watch the video in English or Spanish at
www.socalwater.org/renewed/ or by scanning this QR code.
We tell stories that make a difference.
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NONFUNCTIONAL GRASS WATERING BAN
01.2027 Time to Change is Now. ON COMMERCIAL & PUBLIC PROPERTIES The ban on watering unused grass on public and commercial properties, including HOA common areas, starts January 2027.
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