News

Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility was honored today by California Water Environment Association as its 2021 Plant of the Year (Small).

Presented during CWEA’s Virtual Conference and Expo, the award recognizes accomplishments with regard to regulatory compliance, innovative practices, employee development, cost-effectiveness, and other evidence of superior plant operations.

“Our board is honored to have CWEA recognize at the state level OMWD’s fiscal accountability, efficiency, and innovation in the operation of our 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility,” said OMWD Vice President Kristie Bruce-Lane. “With California facing its third consecutive dry year, we need to invest in more local and regional water supply facilities like this. Without them, water scarcity due to the effects of climate change and water policies in Sacramento will continue to impact people’s health and access to water.”

4S WRF can produce up to two million gallons of high-quality recycled water each day, reducing the use of drinking water to irrigate properties such as schools, parks, golf courses, streetscapes, and homeowner association common areas. OMWD meets approximately 14 percent of its overall demand with recycled water and continues to expand the use of recycled water within its service area. OMWD also promotes the expanded use of recycled water throughout the state.

CWEA’s award program serves to recognize professional achievements within the wastewater industry and raise public awareness of the importance of wastewater treatment to public health and the environment. 4S WRF received the same designation at the local level earlier this year from CWEA’s San Diego Section.

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

Water Reclamation Operators Jason Emerick and Raymond Motas with Water Reclamation Facilities Supervisor John Onkka at OMWD’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility