California’s First-Ever Water Professionals Appreciation Week Launches Oct. 7

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Oct. 04, 2017 -- California’s first-ever Water Professionals Appreciation Week launches Oct. 7 and runs through Oct. 15 as part of a new annual designation intended to highlight the important role of water industry professionals and local public water agencies in ensuring safe and reliable water, wastewater, and recycled water for California.

Water Professionals Appreciation Week was established by Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 80, authored by Sen. Bill Dodd (D-Napa).

“While this year’s rains eased drought conditions, supporting smart water policy and infrastructure has never been more crucial,” said Senator Dodd. “Our economy and our environment depend on water professionals working every single day to maintain and improve our water systems. Water truly is the lifeblood of our state and their work is indispensable.”

The measure was sponsored by an ACWA-led coalition that includes: WateReuse California, California Municipal Utilities Association, California Association of Sanitation Agencies, and the California Water Association. The California Water Environment Association also is a partner in the effort.

As part of Water Professionals Appreciation Week, local urban and agricultural water agencies across the state will host events and programs focused on staff appreciation, educating key audiences on the value of water and wastewater services, showcasing the important role that water professionals play in delivering water to California’s homes, businesses and farms, and promoting careers in the water industry.

“Water Professionals Appreciation Week is a proactive and exciting opportunity to showcase the ‘people behind the pipes and plants’ who work hard every day to ensure safe, reliable water for communities throughout California,” said ACWA Deputy Executive Director for External Affairs Jennifer Persike. “It also gives water agencies a chance to cultivate the next generation of water leaders by highlighting the rewarding careers in the water industry to young professionals and students.”

Other Contacts (Cosponsors and Partners):

• Adam Link, California Association of Sanitation Agencies, [email protected]
  
• Matt Williams, California Municipal Utilities Association, [email protected]
  
• Jack Hawks, California Water Association, [email protected]
  
• Alec Mackie, California Water Environment Association, [email protected]
  
• Jennifer West, WateReuse California, [email protected]

ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 430+ members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, visit www.acwa.com. ACWA also manages Save Our Water—the state’s official water conservation outreach program – in partnership with the California Department of Water Resources. More information is at www.saveourwater.com. 

Contact:  Pamela Martineau, Acting Communications Supervisor, 916/441-4545 or 916/832-7941