News

Olivenhain Municipal Water District recognized at its November 18 board meeting nine individuals and businesses making a significant, positive impact over the last year in the community, the San Diego region, or local water systems.

“It is always important to celebrate stand-out efforts by individuals and companies, and this year, it may be needed even more,” commented OMWD Board President Ed Sprague. “Tonight’s award winners represent a wide array of fields, abilities, and services, but all have used their talents to make a difference in our communities.”

D&H Water Systems was recognized as Business of the Year for its critical part in recent upgrades to systems at OMWD’s David C. McCollom Water Treatment Plant. Chuck Badger, named Agricultural Customer of the Year, was acknowledged as a resource in the development of OMWD conservation and agricultural programs. Laura Lisauskas, Residential Customer of the Year, created a water-efficient and colorful yard that serves as an example of a California-friendly landscape.

Close coordination with OMWD staff during OMWD’s headquarters renovation project earned Carter’s Hay and Grain recognition as Commercial Customer of the Year. Leucadia Wastewater District, named Recycled Water Customer of the Year, partnered with OMWD on a project to utilize recycled water for sewer cleaning and street sweeping. The Escondido Creek Conservancy was honored as Non-Profit of the Year for its dedication to protecting habitat in the Escondido Creek Watershed and connecting students to their natural environment.

Adena Boxer-Capitano, Volunteer of the Year, has been a volunteer for the Escondido Creek Conservancy and OMWD’s Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve since 2014, and helps to develop educational programs at the Reserve’s Interpretive Center. Creator of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan Internship Program, Bill Dean educates and trains students to develop sustainable solutions to reduce stormwater pollution, earning Educator of the Year honors. Leonard Wittwer was recognized with the Presidential Award for a lifetime of dedication to the community, Escondido Creek Watershed, and Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve.