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ON THE COVER Brown pelican, Photo by Joel Sartore/National Geographic Photo Ark. Also shown below.
Animals lack the means for political influence —Joel Sartore gives them a voice! T he animal kingdom has no political influence, no microphones, no megaphones. For nearly three years, we worked with National
Stephens’ kangaroo rat, photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
Photo Ark Founder Joel Sartore: Focusing on Species for 20 Years By Elizabeth Smilor Executive Editor
N ational Geographic Explorer and Photo Ark Founder Joel Sartore has just one question for the Civic Digital crew before his on-camera interview in a Los Angeles hotel suite: “How do you stand the traffic?” His reaction is similar after a helicopter ride above the metropolis. “My first impressions were of the enormity of the city, how much traffic there was, and the air pollution caused by the exhaust from all those millions of cars,” he said. A Nebraska native
Geographic to arrange an on-camera interview with renowned photographer and Photo Ark creator Joel Sartore. Last month, we finally caught up with him in Los Angeles. If you’ve ever looked into an animal’s eyes and felt something stir, you’ve likely seen the world through Sartore’s lens. He is more than a photographer — he is a storyteller for creatures that cannot speak for themselves. Most importantly, he is a relentless messenger warning us of a sobering truth: wildlife is vanishing at an alarming rate. If we don’t act swiftly, much of the planet’s extraordinary biodiversity will disappear, not just from ecosystems, but from memory. Animals cannot hold press conferences, lobby lawmakers, or launch viral campaigns. They have no
“People protect what they care about.” Chris Lancaster, Publisher, Civic Publications
National Geographic Museum of Exploration Marking its 20th anniversary, The Photo Ark will be the inaugural exhibition at the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, opening June 26 in Washington D.C. Sartore said: “To me, ‘Animals of Earth’ is more than an exhibit — it’s an opportunity to use this groundbreaking interactive technology to bring visitors face to face with all of the wonderful species that I have had the pleasure to photograph from around the globe, while also serving as a testament to the species diversity on our planet that we must work together to protect.” moe.nationalgeographic.org
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who prefers nature over human crowds, Sartore is celebrating his 20th year working on the Photo Ark project. He has traveled the world to document more than 17,000 species in human
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voice in policy or public debate. That’s what makes Sartore’s work so powerful: he gives them one. Through his striking portraits, we are compelled to see animals not as background scenery, but as living, vulnerable co-inhabitants of Earth. His images spark empathy — and empathy is often where action begins. People protect what they care about; they care about what they understand; and they understand what they see. Sartore has turned photography into advocacy.
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care, and isn’t stopping. In fact, Sartore has expanded the project to include scientific efforts such as rescues, bird banding and stream surveys to photograph more species. “I expanded it because I want people to see what all biodiversity looks like. Most zoos don’t display beetles, ants,
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minnows, and sparrows. They display juicy things: tigers and elephants and giraffes. The underdogs need a voice. The little things drive the world’s ecosystems,” Sartore said. “We see extinction accelerating and it’s a trend that we’d like to slow at least. And so that’s why we’re doing the Photo Ark. Just trying to get people to care while there’s still time.” Sartore, who is now assisted by his son Cole on international trips, follows a simple
Photo Ark Founder Joel Sartore hopes his photography inspires human action. Photo by Steven Georges.
California desert tortoise photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
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intentional. We can no longer think that nature will be ok if we sit back and hope for the best.” So, what does that intentionality look like? “One of the easiest ways people can help protect wildlife and provide them a safe haven is by planting a pollinator garden with plants native to your area. Pollinator gardens provide essential food and shelter for bees, butterflies, birds and many other insects, establishing a strong foundation for a healthy ecosystem,” Sartore said. “We can get really creative in the spaces where we live and play. You don’t need a big yard, or even a back yard to make a difference. Consider working with your
formula for the Photo Ark: Images on black or white that entice people to look into the animals’ eyes, no matter their size, “they all have equal say.” The project also amplifies the work and message of many zoos and other conservation nonprofits that provide the Photo Ark with access and information, and use the images to further their outreach. “I find good people doing good things and celebrate that. People don’t realize that water doesn’t just come out of a tap and food doesn’t just land in a grocery store, it’s all process of nature and we’re really tied to it,” Sartore said. “The vast
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majority of the species we evolved with are still here. From now on, saving nature must be
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“The choice is really up to us, but if money is all that matters, it’s going to be game over. The future, quite literally, is in our hands now.” Joel Sartore
Yellow-billed magpie, Photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
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Baby Gray’s monitor, Photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
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P hoto Ark Founder Joel Sartore photographed Nabire, one of the last three northern white rhinoceros left on Earth just one week before she died in 2015. Decades before, he watched bulldozers scrape away vegetation near Los Angeles — critical habitat for a tiny bird called the California gnatcatcher. “We came back the next day to find a singing male on top of a brush pile left over from the land clearing work. It was pretty heartbreaking,” he said. “The gnatcatcher is a classic example of a species that’s ‘the least among us.’ It’s tiny and gray and overlooked by everyone. And yet it matters so much when you stop and think about it. That bird needs a little bit of land in its natural state, plus clean air, clean water, and a stable climate in order to survive. In other words, the same things we all need to make it ourselves.” Sartore is documenting as many species as possible regardless of their conservation status, but has witnessed A Closer Look at Endangered Species
the extinction or near extinction of species. Worldwide more than 16,300 animal species are thought to be endangered, and more than 38,500 plant and animal species are under threat, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In California, there are about 180 animal species currently listed as threatened or endangered under either Federal and/or California endangered species acts. There are 34 species classified as fully protected in California because they face possible extinction. They range from the tiny Colorado pikeminnow and Santa Cruz long-toed salamander to the California Condor and southern sea otter. Some species, including the brown pelican and bald eagle, are success stories thanks in large part to the 1972 ban on the pesticide DDT. The California brown pelican, a subspecies that moves along the Pacific Coast from British Columbia to northern Mexico, continues to be monitored through annual surveys. The population is still threatened by coastal development, fishing gear entanglement and other human disturbances. A much smaller and less noticeable bird, the coastal California gnatcatcher has been listed as federally threatened since the 1990s despite many efforts to restore its coastal sage scrub habitat that was removed for developments. The tiny bird exists from southern Ventura County to Baja California, Mexico. Baja California is also home the most endangered sea mammal in the world — the Vaquita. It’s believed that only 10- 15 individuals remain in Mexico’s Gulf of California. The small porpoise with a distinct dark eye ring, is often caught in gillnets used by illegal fishing operations.
These are only a few examples of threatened and endangered species. The Photo Ark has books devoted to these species. Our annual Earth Day publication has featured many,
A great blue heron at Rio Hondo Spreading Grounds, which uses recycled water to replenish groundwater.
from the monarchs to the California condor. Read more about the Photo Ark, www.joelsartore.com and see past Earth Day publications, www.civicpublications.com —Elizabeth Smilor
We all have a role in protecting our planet. The Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts help protect the environment by converting sewage into clean water and waste into recycled commodities and green energy. You can help by: Properly disposing of your household hazardous and electronic waste at one of our free local roundups (www.lacsd.org/hhw). Keeping trash off of streets by placing in trash cans. Putting paper, cans, bottles and other recyclables in the bin for recyclables. For more ways to be green, visit www.lacsd.org/begreen.
LACSD • SanDistricts SanitationDistrictsLACounty LosAngelesCountySanitationDistricts www.lacsd.org
Northern white rhinoceros Nabire, photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
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more livable communities across Los Angeles County. For Metro to fulfill its mission – to provide a world-class transportation system that enhances the quality of life for all who live, work and play within LA County – the agency is cognizant of and accountable for the potentially harmful impacts of running that system and takes action to mitigate them wherever possible. For nearly two decades, Metro has instituted policies, plans, initiatives and reporting that have embedded sustainability, community resilience and equity into decision-making and operations. In 2020, the 10-year strategic sustainability plan, Moving Beyond Sustainability (MBS), was approved. This past January a five- year update was presented to
the Board of Directors. The update shows that 80% of Metro’s MBS targets have been achieved or are on track for achievement within the next five years. Sustainability at Metro extends beyond infrastructure and operations – it is also about improving health outcomes, expanding opportunity, and preparing the next generation to lead a more sustainable future. In 2023, Metro’s Board adopted regional vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reduction targets to align with California’s statewide climate
Making Communities More Livable By Elizabeth Smilor Executive Editor
goals, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. These include goals based on a VMT reduction scenario that would reduce VMT across Metro’s LA County Service Population by 12.3% (from a 2016 baseline). Reducing VMT is central to lowering emissions and improving air quality across LA County. As a major transportation provider, Metro plays a critical role in reducing reliance on single- occupancy vehicles while improving
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A Metro bus travels along Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica.
A ngelenos who choose to ride public transit are helping to save our planet with every mile, every day, not just on Earth Day. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) , which serves the most populous county in the United States, is responsible for preventing over a million metric tons of greenhouse gases (GHGs) from entering the atmosphere and contributing to climate change. ”We serve nearly a million
of our planning and operations, investing in our workforce, and partnering across the region to deliver a transportation system that is not only cleaner, but more inclusive and more resilient.” Metro reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 68% since 2017, and is on track to achieve a 79% reduction by 2030. Metro also has cut nitrogen oxides by 92% and particulate matter by nearly 74% since 2018. Furthermore, across Metro’s facilities, water consumption
Above, the Metro J (Silver) Line is a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) connection between San Pedro and El Monte. At right, the Metro E Line (Expo) train heads toward Santa Monica from East Los Angeles.
riders each day, and with every ride on a Metro Bus or on Metro Rail there is a measurable, positive impact on our environment and climate,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “As Los Angeles prepares to host major events including the 2028 Summer Games, Metro is redefining what a world- class, climate-ready transit agency looks like. We’re embedding climate adaptation into every aspect
and energy use are down due to ongoing conservation efforts and the continued use of onsite renewable energy. Fifteen Metro buildings have achieved LEED certifications. Beyond climate benefits, these investments also improve public health. Cleaner air, especially in communities historically overburdened by pollution, helps reduce respiratory illnesses such as asthma, while expanded transit access supports more active lifestyles through walking and first- and last-mile connections. In this way, sustainability is not only about the environment, but about healthier,
“The challenges ahead are real – from fiscal pressures to the evolving climate – but they are matched by opportunity.” Stephanie Wiggins, Metro CEO
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reliability, safety and security across the system, especially as Los Angeles prepares for major global events. Metro is also investing in the next generation of climate leaders through its Youth Programs. By working directly with young people from across Los Angeles County, Metro creates opportunities for youth to help shape real-world sustainability solutions, contribute to ongoing initiatives, and engage in real-world climate action. At the same time, Metro is helping prepare the region’s future workforce through its Growing Greener Workforce program. Through training, education and career pathways in clean transportation and sustainable infrastructure, the agency is building a pipeline of talent needed to deliver and maintain a low-carbon transit system. “The challenges ahead are real – from fiscal pressures to the evolving climate – but they are matched by opportunity,” said Wiggins. “Metro’s leadership, innovation, and commitment to people will continue to drive our success. Together, we are shaping a future where sustainable mobility is not just an aspiration, but a way of life for every Angeleno.” Going forward, Metro will continue issuing biennial progress reports and annual performance updates via Metro’s Sustainability Dashboard. These reporting mechanisms, coupled with ongoing governance improvements, will ensure accountability, transparency and responsiveness to emerging challenges. Metro will also continue collaborating with community-based organizations, labor partners and education institutions to align sustainability goals with regional equity and workforce development priorities.
EARTH EARTH DAY DAY 2026 2026 Save water S ave water today for a today for a greener world greener world
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Bees & Earth Day: Small Creatures, Big Impact City of Industry Supports Local Education About Bees
“The City of Industry is known as a center of economic strength, but we also want to be known as a city that invests in the future of our environment. This project is a meaningful step in that direction.” Mayor Cory Moss
By Amy Bentley Special Sections Writer B ees are true climate heroes. As key contributors to pollination, bees help plants reproduce, supporting ecosystems and producing nearly one-third of the food we eat. Fruits, vegetables, nuts and countless wild plants depend on the daily work of bees. Earth Day is a good occasion to remember that protecting bees means protecting our natural ecosystems, our food supply and the planet. Bee populations are under threat from habitat loss, pesticides and climate change. Organizations like OC Beekeeping Supplies and its non-profit partner, Bees Feed Us, are making a difference. Through education, research, sustainable hive management and by providing healthy bees to local beekeepers, these organizations are strengthening bee populations, promoting
too, as it supports healthy hives while connecting people to local agriculture and environmental stewardship. Bees Feed Us is the family’s non-profit education and community outreach organization. Sons Gavin, 16, and Grady, 10, take active roles. “Everyone in our family loves the bees. This is a passion we all have. It just keeps growing,” Laurie said. Bill added, “Proper education is probably one of the most important factors for successful beekeeping.” One of the family’s successful endeavors is a partnership with the City of Industry to establish a five-acre teaching apiary in the City of Industry where community members can experience the magic of bees up close by appointment. “The City of Industry is known as a center of economic strength, but we also want to be known as a city that invests in the future of our environment. This project is a meaningful step in that direction,” said Mayor Cory Moss. “This is more than an apiary — it’s a living classroom. We
environmentally responsible practices, educating others about the importance of bees, and encouraging communities to plant pollinator-friendly gardens.
Also helping the effort is the City of Industry, which has partnered with these organizations to teach people about bees and their important role. OC Beekeeping Supplies and Bees Feed Us are the passions of the Gibson family of Fullerton. Bill and Laurie Gibson established OC Beekeeping Supplies in 1995. They sell bees, hives, supplies and pure, award-winning honey under the brand Hapa Honey Farm. Responsibly harvested honey is important
The Gibson family, from left, Bill, Grady, Laurie, and Gavin run OC Beekeeping Supplies and Bees Feed Us.
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San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District Highlights Community-Driven Greening Project T he San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District is proud to shine a spotlight on the transformative campus greening effort at Fremont Elementary School in Alhambra, led by Asian Pacific Islander Forward Movement in partnership with Alham - bra Unified School District. This project reflects a shared com - mitment to creating healthier, sustainable, and climate-resilient environments for students. In fall 2025, APIFM conducted an extensive community
want families, students, and residents to experience firsthand the importance of pollinators and the role we can all play in protecting them,” Moss said. City Manager Josh Nelson added, “Bees play a vital role in sustaining our environment, our food supply, and our quality of life. This teaching apiary is an investment in education, conservation, and community engagement, and we’re proud to bring an initiative like this to the City of Industry.” Bill Gibson also collaborates with the agricultural, chemistry and engineering departments of local universities while his wife focuses on sustainable hive management and reaches out to schools, festivals and community programs — spreading the message that organic hive practices work and anyone can help create a pollinator-friendly environment. Gavin and Grady are conducting research with universities and mentoring new beekeepers. They are the official beekeepers of the Centennial Farms hive located on the Orange County Fairgrounds. Gavin also leads high school outreach and internship programs while Grady assists with hive splits and building nucleus colonies. Grady also speaks at the Orange County Fair and in elementary school classrooms.
engagement process involving approximately 669 students and 146 parents, teachers, and staff. The effort centered on gathering meaningful input to guide the redesign of outdoor campus spaces, ensuring that improvements reflect the real needs of those who use them every day. Community Voices Shape the Vision The engagement findings revealed strong consensus around several key priorities. Students emphasized the importance of nature-based features, cooler outdoor spaces, and increased shade to make school grounds more comfortable. Meanwhile, parents and staff prioritized infrastructure improvements such as a forest walking trail, outdoor learning and gathering areas, and additional greenery along campus edges to address air quality and privacy concerns. Across all groups, one message stood out: Outdoor spaces are more likely to be used when they are cooler, greener, and thoughtfully designed. At the same time, the community stressed that enhancements should not
Learn more at Beesfeedus.org and hapahoneyfarm.com.
Next Steps and Continued Collaboration The project team, including landscape architects from Herrera Environmental Consultants, will incorporate community feedback into the design updates. Ongoing coordination with the Alhambra Unified School District, Fremont Elementary staff, and the Parent Teacher Association will guide the implementation plan. Advancing Regional Water and Climate Goals For the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, projects like this represent an investment in the region’s future. Greening initiatives support water conservation, reduce urban heat island effects, and promote environmental stewardship. As this project moves forward, the District looks forward to seeing Fremont Elementary School become a model for climate-resilient, student- centered campus design.
City of Industry City Council | email: COICouncil@cityofindustry.org | phone: (626) 333-2211
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By Amy Bentley Special Sections Writer A small mollusk is proving to be a growing problem in California’s water delivery system. Golden mussels are freshwater mollusks native to the rivers and lakes of China and Southeast Asia. They were unintentionally introduced to South America in the 1990s, likely by ship ballast water discharges in shipping ports. Since then, golden mussels have rapidly spread through South America, and in 2024 were detected in California’s Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta, Water Delivery Infrastructure Golden Mussels Challenge
Gardner added that treatment chemicals capable of limiting golden mussels are already being used safely to control algae. They pose no danger to people or the environment, she said. Jose Reynoso, General Manager of the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (SGVMWD), a direct State Water Project (SWP) contractor, said, “It’s important to note that the water continues to flow. The golden mussels will ultimately increase the cost of water but the intrusion won’t prevent us from delivering water to the region. The golden mussel has brought all the agencies in the San Gabriel Valley together for a common cause and we are working together toward a solution.” The Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster, SGVMWD, Upper Water, Three Valleys, and the Los Angeles County Public Works Department are working together to devise a Golden Mussel Control Plan – science-based, effective pretreatment measures to prevent golden mussel propagation. The water agencies are
“Eradication is not possible once they are in these water systems.” Tom Love, General Manager, Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District
“Eradication is not possible once they are in these water systems. The State Water Project is too big. So we will come up with a plan to control the population and spread, and mitigate the impacts on local infrastructure,” Love said. “As long as we have an effective control plan, there won’t be other environmental impacts.” Love said the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
Photo Source: California Department of Water Resources
(Metropolitan) – where the Upper District gets its water – is adding chlorine to the water as it leaves the Colorado River to go into pumping stations. Chlorine won’t kill the mussels but it does kill 80 percent of the larvae. Metropolitan is also inspecting pipes during routine maintenance shutdowns to look for large clusters of mussels to remove them if necessary. Love said Los Angeles County in September 2025 suspended Upper Water’s new water deliveries pending submission of their acceptable golden
make sure this gets under control. Challenges come in all shapes and sizes but how we band together as a region shows how resilient we are,” said Kelly Gardner, Executive Officer of the Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster, the agency which oversees the allocation of water rights in the Main San Gabriel Basin. The biggest challenge: golden mussels can cause damage to water infrastructure. They can rapidly colonize in water infrastructure by attaching to pipes, gates and pumps, multiplying quickly and forming dense colonies, clogging water infrastructure and restricting water flow. They do not affect water quality, said Matt Litchfield, General Manager and Chief Engineer for Three Valleys Municipal Water District (Three Valleys), a wholesale water agency serving over half a million people in northeast Los Angeles County. “It’s important for people to know that there is no impact to the quality of treated water,” Litchfield said. “It’s still new to us and we will have to adapt to this over time, but it’s not like we haven’t dealt with different challenges before in water treatment.”
“Our goal is to make sure that water is at the tap when it is called up and we are working together to make sure this gets under control.” Kelly Gardner Executive Officer, Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster
mussel control plan. Upper Water has plenty of water in the meantime stored in the San Gabriel Basin and expects to have its plan done within a few months, with the delivery issue resolved soon. Love anticipates the district will also use chlorine close to where it takes delivery of water, at the San Gabriel River just below Morris Damn, near Azusa. Adult golden mussels have been detected at the Three Valleys’ surface water treatment plant in Claremont, which takes in water from the SWP, Litchfield said. Three Valleys also has a plan to pretreat that water as soon as it is delivered, he said. Reynoso said his agency is working on an individual control plan as well to protect their infrastructure and could have water delivered to isolated storage basins. SGVMWD owns a 36-mile pipeline from San Bernardino to Azusa Canyon that will be treated against the mussels, Reynoso said.
developing their own control plans, too. They are required by law to submit such a plan to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife if their water system operations will result in the transportation of golden mussels; any local water district taking water from the SWP is either doing this already or will have to, Love said.
which supplies drinking water to more than 25 million people. It’s likely they got in the Delta and the California Aqueduct the same way – from a cargo ship emptying its bilge water into the bay system. This spring, they were found locally in Claremont. “They are now at our back door and we need to address this,” said Tom Love, General Manager of the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (Upper Water), whose service area includes the cities of Arcadia, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, City of Industry, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Glendora, Irwindale, La Puente, Monrovia, Rosemead, San Gabriel, South El Monte, South Pasadena, Temple City and West Covina.
“It’s important for people to know that there is no impact to the quality of treated water.” Matt Litchfield, General Manager and Chief Engineer, Three Valleys Municipal Water District
“It’s important to note that the water continues to flow. The golden mussels will ultimately increase the cost of water but it won’t prevent us from delivering water to the region.” Jose Reynoso, General Manager, San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District
“Our goal is to make sure that water is at the tap when it is called up and we are working together to
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DID YOU KNOW ? The Main San Gabriel Basin provides groundwater for more than more than 1.5 million people. It’s a massive underground water bank that provides 80% of the area’s drinking water. The Basin is the largest EPA Superfund Site for Groundwater. It was declared a contamination cleanup site in 1983. The San Gabriel Basin Water Quality Authority was created in 1993 by the California Legislature to coordinate the cleanup of the Basin. As of June 2025, 2,132,998 acre-feet of groundwater has been treated in the San Gabriel Basin. One acre- foot is equal to 325,851 gallons; enough to fill the Rose Bowl more than 258 times.
WQA BOARD MEMBERS
who we are The local agency responsible for overseeing the cleanup and restoration of the San Gabriel Groundwater Basin. what we do COORDINATE Groundwater Cleanup INFORM the Public ASSIST Cooperating Respondents PREVENT or Minimize Migration of Contamination PROTECT Groundwater Resources by Removing Contamination Quickly and Efficiently INTEGRATE Cleanup with Water Supply MINIMIZE Economic Impact to the Public FUND WQA Projects and Programs with Outside Funding Sources staff RANDY SCHOELLERMAN, P.E. Executive Director DAN COLBY Assistant Executive Director/ Senior Project Manager MARITZA CARDENAS Director of Finance STEPHANIE A. MORENO, MPA Director of Communications/Board Relations MICHELLE SANCHEZ Senior Administrative Assistant/ Office Coordinator
Lynda Noriega Chairwoman
Robert Gonzales Vice Chairman
Stormwater is not wasted. During storms water is diverted to spreading grounds near the 605/210 freeway interchange where water slowly replenishes the Basin. Local water equals reliable water. The huge groundwater basin makes the San Gabriel Valley less dependent on imported water from the State Water Project and the Colorado River. The polluters pay the price. More than 70% of the Basin cleanup cost has come from the responsible parties. Most of the contamination is from industrial chemicals.
Valerie Muñoz Secretary
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JACKIE MONTGOMERY Accounting Specialist PEARL ESCOBAR Project Resource Specialist RICHARD PADILLA Legal Counsel
WATER WOES: Funding could run dry for San Gabriel Basin groundwater cleanup
Who decontaminates San Gabriel Basin drinking water?
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New Metropolitan General Manager Addresses Water Resiliency Shivaji Deshmukh Speaks at Three Valleys’ Leadership Breakfast By Elizabeth Smilor Executive Editor address included: challenges on the Colorado River; the State Water Project and the proposed Delta Conveyance Project;
From left, Walnut Valley Water District staff members Lily Lopez and Bertha Perez with Arrica Jimenez from the San Gabriel Basin Watermaster.
City of Industry City Manager Josh Nelson and La Verne Mayor Tim Hepburn.
Metropolitan’s joint recycled water project, Pure Water Southern California; infrastructure maintenance; skilled workforce development; and budget concerns.
“We are experiencing the worst hydrology on record in the Colorado River Basin. On the State Water Project, we’re seeing good precipitation, but we’re seeing that melt off more quickly.
TVMWD, one of 26 Metropolitan member agencies, is a wholesale water supplier with 13 members serving about 500,000 people. About half of Three Valleys’ supply is imported through Metropolitan. The Claremont-based agency is also a “letter of intent” holder to purchase up to 6,500 acre-feet from the Pure Water Southern California project, a joint venture of Metropolitan and the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts in the planning phase. At full capacity, the program would provide enough water for 1.5 million people. “Collaboration and partnerships are key. There’s no successful project in water that’s taken place within a single entity,” Deshmukh said. “It’s important for us to find mutual benefit through not only different water agencies but through different sectors. Water recycling is a perfect example of a way to not only develop projects from a reliability standpoint but also partner with environmental protection on the wastewater side.” Claremont City Councilman Corey Calaycay left the breakfast impressed with Deshmukh’s perspective and leadership. “Water is the lifeblood of our communities. It impacts all of our residents. It impacts all the development in our city,” he said. “It’s always good to be aware of what’s happening.”
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s new General Manager Shivaji Deshmukh highlighted agency priorities and challenges recently at the Three Valleys Municipal Water District Leadership Breakfast. “This is an honor of a lifetime. Metropolitan is the nation’s largest water agency. The scale at which we operate is exciting and inspirational,” said Deshmukh of his new leadership role. “Metropolitan has established itself as a true partner not only to its member agencies, but to entities throughout the state and the Colorado River Basin. What that has resulted in is the ability to be flexible in times of drought. It’s important for us to continue that ethic in terms of how we look to the future.” Deshmukh’s tenure as Metropolitan’s General Manager began Jan. 1 after a two-month transitional period with past General Manager Deven Upadhyay, who retired. Deshmukh addressed about 115 regional water leaders and government officials on Feb. 26 at the Three Valleys breakfast at the Kellogg West Conference Center at Cal Poly Pomona. All seven members of the Three Valleys Board of Directors were in attendance. “It was great opportunity for our members and all of our guests to hear what Metropolitan’s priorities are under his leadership. He hit on all the big-ticket items,” said Three Valleys General Manager and Chief Engineer Matthew Litchfield, P.E. “I don’t envy all of challenges before him.” Those “big ticket” topics highlighted in Deshmukh’s keynote
Because of over pumping in the Central Valley, there are also subsidence issues with that conveyance system,” said Deshmukh in answering a question as to Metropolitan’s greatest challenges. “I say all this not to be dramatic, but these are the challenges we face with accessing these supplies. Our challenge is to deal with that in an affordable way. All the solutions are going to quite expensive.”
“At the Board level there is a very clear direction given to us and a path laid out over the next couple of years of what we need to do. I represent staff reporting to a board of 38 for an agency serving 19 million people,” Deshmukh said. “While we’ve focused on imported water since the start of Metropolitan, we have not rested in that and relied on that as our only source. We view a wide spectrum of investment opportunities.” Deshmukh explained how Metropolitan’s Climate Adaptation Master Plan for Water (CAMP4 Water) guides decision-making for staff members at the agency that delivers 40% of California’s water.
Three Valleys Board President Mike Ti appreciated that Deshmukh addressed the big potential projects as well as the importance of affordability. “Reliability and affordability go hand in hand. We are always cognizant of the impacts on our ratepayers. You can have the lowest rates, but if you don’t have the reliable water supply, it doesn’t really matter,” Ti said. “There’s a balance that we need to maintain and we have to communicate well that there are a lot of people behind the faucet. We have to explain the value that we provide.”
Three Valleys’ next Leadership Breakfast will be on June 25. For more information, visit www.threevalleys.com.
Guest speaker and Metropolitan General Manager Shivaji Deshmukh, third from left, with Three Valleys directors Jorge Marquez and Bob Kuhn on his left, and TVMWD Board President Mike Ti, directors David De Jesus and Jody Roberto, Vice President Carlos Goytia, General Manager Matt Litchfield, and Secretary/Treasurer Jeff Hanlon, on his right (L to R).
Shivaji Deshmukh addresses attendees at the Three Valleys Municipal Water District Leadership Breakfast.
20 | Earthday 2025
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Fun Facts About the Earth
By Amy Bentley Earth is a remarkable planet. Here are 10 fun facts about our planetary home:
AMAZING ATMOSPHERE: Near the surface, Earth’s atmosphere consists of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% other gases such as argon, carbon dioxide, and neon. The atmosphere shields humans from much of the sun’s harmful radiation. The atmosphere also protects us from meteoroids, most of which burn up in the atmosphere and are seen as meteors in the night sky before they can hit Earth as meteorites. EARTH IS NOT ROUND: We all
WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE: Earth is the only planet in our solar system with liquid water on the
know by now that the Earth isn’t flat, but it’s not perfectly round, either. The Earth’s rotation causes the planet to bulge at the equator
surface. About 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered in water; 97% is saltwater. LIFE SUPPORT: Earth is the only planet or place we know of in the universe that is inhabited by living things and can support life. SIZE MATTERS: With an equatorial diameter of 7,926 miles, Earth is the fifth largest
and flatten at the poles, while the distribution of mass on Earth (which is not perfectly uniform) causes small variations in the gravitational pull at different locations on Earth. Earth is actually an ellipsoid, or a slightly squashed sphere.
This Earth Day, we are sharing the story behind our message, “For Our Groundwater, Our Care Is Constant.”
“For Our Groundwater” Our story starts with groundwater—local rain and snowmelt, along with imported water. Our ground- water is held deep down underground in earth’s natural holding area called the Main San Gabriel Basin. Groundwater provides nearly all of our water. “Our” There’s 1.5 million of us in the San Gabriel Valley. If you call the cities and communities in this valley home, our groundwater and its earthen basin connect us as our common ground and common cause.
“Care” At Watermaster, we care for our groundwater by protecting it and its natural basin. We also share the story of how we all have a role in our groundwaters care. Just imagine what 1.5 million of us can accomplish by living a water-wise lifestyle together! “Is Constant” Rain or shine, we are never out of a drought cycle. The drought cycle is constant, so all of our care needs to be constant too.
EARTH IS ANCIENT: By researching Earth’s rocks, scientists have calculated the Earth to be about 4.5 billion years old.
planet in our solar system. Just slightly larger than nearby Venus, Earth is the biggest of the four planets closest to the sun, all of which are made of rock and metal.
SUPER CONTINENT: Some 300 million years ago, Earth had only one massive supercontinent called Pangaea which was surrounded by a single ocean called Panthalassa. CORAL REEFS: Coral reefs are the largest living structure on Earth. These underwater ecosystems provide habitat and protection for many species and act as a natural barrier helping to protect coastlines from storms and erosion. Coral reefs face environmental threats including ocean acidification, rising temperatures and global warming.
WHAT’S IN A NAME?: Earth is the only planet in the solar system whose English name does not come from Greek or Roman mythology. The name was taken from Old English and Germanic. It simply means “the ground.” FLY ME TO THE SUN: Earth is 93,327,712 miles from the sun. If you took a passenger jet flying about 550 mph to fly to the sun, it would take 18-21 years to arrive. (And you’d earn lot of frequent flyer miles.)
To know more about the Main San Gabriel Basin, please visit: thewatersthatconnectus.com
Sources: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Geographic Kids, the European Space Agency, Livescience.com.
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Jerusalem cricket, Photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
Watch Live: The Big Bear Bald Eagle Family
FOBBV Eagle Nest Cam
From Photo Ark, Page 4
Red octopus, Photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
apartment building to find a spot for a shared pollinator garden, even if it’s on a roof. Or, think about working with local groups to build community native plant gardens in other shared spaces, like schools, community centers or parks. No action is too small when it comes to protecting wildlife and safeguarding their critical habitats.” DePaveLA, a collaborative project between Accelerate Resilience L.A. and Hyphae Design Laboratory, reported in January that 44% of Los Angeles County’s 312,453 acres of pavement is unnecessary. Sartore was not surprised by this finding following his ride on an Angel City Air helicopter. “The helicopter pilot pointed out how, in his 30 years of flying the LA Basin, how nearly all the green space had been swallowed up by development,” Sartore said. “Pretty soon the only undeveloped land will be the steepest hillsides and that’ll be it (the pilot said).” In addition to huge cities, California is also the most biodiverse state in the lower 48, Sartore points out. Habitat loss driven by human population growth and development is a primary cause of species extinction. “Until we humans start setting aside large tracts of protected forests, prairies, tundra and oceans, big spaces where we don’t swoop in and consume everything, we’re going to see plants and animals disappear at an even faster rate,” Sartore said. “The choice is really up to us, but if money is all that matters, it’s going to be game over. The future, quite literally, is in our hands now.”
Crested capuchin, Photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
F ollowing the excitement of last year’s successful fledging of Sunny and Gizmo, Big Bear eagle cam viewers and Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) volunteers have had a rollercoaster season leading up to pure joy on April 4 and 5 when two chicks hatched on Jackie and Shadow’s nest. Now, people around the world are watching and rooting for the bald eagle family again. In late January, Jackie laid her first clutch of two eggs, but they were destroyed by ravens just days later. The second clutch was laid in late February. On Feb. 11, the FOBBV community suffered a great loss when longtime executive director and fierce environmental advocate Sandy Steers succumbed to cancer. Along with neighbors, Steers founded the nonprofit educational organization in 2001 and in 2015, with the help of a U.S. Forest Service biologist, the nest cam was installed. Today, FOBBV operates two webcams near the nest, 24/7 advertising free; and moderates daily live chats. The FOBBV YouTube channel has more than 700,000 subscribers. In remembrance, the FOBBV team wrote: “Sandy was a strong, independent and determined woman! We could and we all did learn a thing or two from her. She brought nature into our homes with the eagle cam, her presentations and
her colorful eagle stories. She made us think and look at nature in a whole new and deeper way.” A public, outdoor celebration of her life will be held this spring. FOBBV is continuing Steers’ decades-long fight to prevent a luxury home development called Moon Camp that would be built less one mile from the nest tree. After years of court battles, the development was approved last year. Steers led negotiations that led to a limited agreement between the developer and the San Bernardino Mountain Land Trust (SBMLT) for the trust to buy the land for $10 million to permanently conserve and preserve its nearly 63 acres. After the sale, the land will become part of the United States Forest Service (USFS). SBMLT only has until July 31 to raise the funds. Nearly $2 million has been raised and the two nonprofits are seeking major donors. To donate, go to SaveMoonCamp.org Per wildlife regulations, no one is allowed to go near the nest which is 145 feet up a Jeffrey Pine tree. In fact, the San Bernardino National Forest closes hiking trails in the area every year during the brooding season. However, everyone is welcome to tune into the two FOBBV live cam feeds, just be aware of adorable chick obsession syndrome! ~Elizabeth Smilor
Santa Catalina Island fox, Photo by Joel Sartore/ National Geographic Photo Ark
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17445 E. Railroad St., Industry, CA 91748 800-442-6454 residentialservices@myvvs.com ValleyVistaServices.com VISIT US! they’re more likely to recycle properly, helping reduce landfill waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and make these systems work as intended. The organic waste we collect is transformed into beneficial products like compost and renewable energy. Our role at Valley Vista Services is to provide clear guidance and education. The more we can connect with people and simplify the recycling process, the more those small, everyday actions in your home will turn into real environmental impact. Visit https://www.valleyvistaservices.com, email customerservice@myvvs.com or call 1-800-442-6454 or 626-961-6291. of all residential waste produced is organic material that can be recovered and turned into useful byproducts, such as compost, fertilizer, biofuel and electricity. By collecting household food scraps, you are helping to create a cleaner, more sustainable environment. Nearly 40% • Food waste like meat and fish scraps, bones, banana peels and egg shells go in a clear or transparent bag, tied securely, and placed in the green organics cart. • Yard waste goes directly into the organic waste cart without a plastic bag. • Valley Vista provides kitchen pails to help integrate food waste separation into daily routines and make it easier for customers. We continually Look inside for 3 simple steps to help you succeed in collecting food scraps When it comes to food waste recycling, Valley Vista Services has kept the process as simple and practical as possible: work to increase participation and improve consistency. We believe people want to do the right thing! We hope we are helping our customers develop better habits while reducing contamination in the organics carts. What happens at home drives the success of our recycling programs. When residents are informed and understand the impact of their actions,
Valley Vista Services: A Champion of Organics and Food Waste Recycling A t Valley Vista Services, we truly care about the communities we serve. It’s important for us to help our customers understand the role they play in recycling and how their everyday actions can make a real difference. Valley Vista Services is a family-owned and operated El Monte, Huntington Park, and Cypress, as well
INCLUDE THE FOOD WITH GREEN WASTE Place kitchen pail in a convenient place. Line pail with a clear plastic bag and place all food scraps inside. Empty tied bag of food scraps into your green waste cart. By collecting household food scraps, you are helping to create a cleaner, more sustainable environment. Here are 3 simple steps to help you succeed in collecting food scraps: Nearly 40% of all residential waste produced is organic material that can be recovered and turned into useful byproducts, such as compost, fertilizer, biofuel and electricity,
as the unincorporated communities of East Los Angeles, Hacienda Heights, Bassett, Valinda, and South San Jose Hills can take comfort in knowing that their organic waste is being diverted from landfills, thus minimizing methane emissions. Grand Central Recycling was built to support California Senate Bill 1383, which mandates recycling of food and other organic waste to reduce climate-harming methane gas emissions from landfills. Senate Bill 1383, passed in 2016, requires the state to reduce organic waste in landfills by 75% and increase edible food recovery by 20% by 2025 (compared to 2014 levels). The law mandates statewide organic waste collection for all residents and businesses, aiming to slash methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, and fight climate change. All residents and businesses must separate organic materials from their trash and use designated green/ organic containers. Kitchen Pail Tips Empty food scraps into green waste cart often. Wrap food items, like meat and fish, in newspaper and store it in the freezer until collection day. Wash kitchen pail in the dishwasher or by hand. Use smartphone to scan for additional resources:
waste and recycling company proudly serving the greater Los Angeles area since 1957. For more than six decades, we have worked alongside our communities to keep neighborhoods clean, protect the environment, and make recycling easier for everyone. The Valley Vista Services sustainability and outreach team regularly participates in local events, partners with schools, and facilitates recycling workshops to connect with residents, answer questions, and make recycling more accessible and meaningful. We also work directly with our commercial and multifamily customers, providing on-site training to support proper waste sorting and create more efficient, consistent practices across all service sectors. Since opening our organics processing facility, the Grand Central Recycling and Transfer Station in March 2025, we have processed over 138,000 tons of recyclable material, including both organic waste and traditional recyclables. This expanded state-of-the-art organic waste processing facility is greatly improving the efficiency and capacity of organic waste recycling.
ACCEPTABLE ITEMS IN THE FOOD PAIL
Meat, poultry and bones Fish and shellfish Eggs and eggshells Cheese and dairy products Bread & baked goods Pasta, rice, cereals and grains Beans, legumes, nuts and seeds Vegetable & Fruits
Peels and pits (remove stickers)
Coffee grounds & filters Paper tea bags (remove staple) Leftover scraps Spoiled food Plate scrapings Food-soiled paper
With the goal of diverting up to 95% of source-separated organic waste, over 90,000 customers from the cities of Industry, La Puente, Walnut, Diamond Bar,
DO NOT PLACE THESE ITEMS INTO THE FOOD PAIL
Food Waste Recycling Guide Liquid waste Packaging Paper plates and cups Paper cartons Plastic Styrofoam Takeout containers Wax paper
Cat litter/ pet waste Coffee cups & k-cups “Compostable” or “biodegradable” takeout containers and utensils Corks Diapers Facial tissue Fast-food wrappers
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