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On January 25, Olivenhain Municipal Water District received the “Community Engagement & Outreach Program of the Year” award from the San Diego section of the California Water Environment Association during the section’s annual awards ceremony. OMWD’s outreach program highlights the importance of investing in recycled water as a critical water source.

CWEA’s award program recognizes achievements in the wastewater industry and raises public awareness of the importance of wastewater treatment to public health and the environment.

“Our board is honored to receive this award in recognition of our outreach efforts,” said Board Secretary Bob Kephart. “OMWD is dedicated to engaging customers, legislators, and state agencies on the importance of recycled water as a drought-resilient source and protecting its use as a vital water supply.”

OMWD’s outreach program increases awareness of the wastewater treatment process and the high quality of the recycled water produced at OMWD’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility. Visitors to the facility follow the path of wastewater as it is transformed into a safe, environmentally responsible water supply for non-potable uses such as irrigation. OMWD serves approximately 14 percent of its overall demand from recycled water.

In addition to being recognized for outreach efforts, OMWD’s Pump/Motor Technician II, Dominic “Bruno” Brunozzi, has been named “Mechanical Technician of the Year” for the third time in five years. Dedicated to his duties as a technician, Brunozzi also trains operators on equipment and facility safety. 

OMWD will now be considered along with each of CWEA’s 16 other regional honorees for statewide “Community Engagement & Outreach Program of the Year” recognition. Brunozzi will also compete for state recognition as “Mechanical Technician of the Year.”

Founded in 1927, the California Water Environment Association is a not-for-profit association of 9,000-plus professionals in the wastewater industry. The association trains and certifies wastewater professionals, disseminates technical information, and promotes sound policies to benefit society through protection and enhancement of our water environment.

OMWD’s Dominic “Bruno” Brunozzi named “Mechanical Technician of the Year” for the third time in five years