Every drop counts, especially in California. That’s why May is officially recognized as Water Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the value of water in our lives, our landscapes, and our future.
Why Water Awareness Month?
Initiated in the early 1980s by the California Department of Water Resources, Water Awareness Month was created to promote the wise and efficient use of California’s most precious natural resource: Water. The timing in May is intentional. As spring gives way to summer, the water demand typically increases across the state, from urban homes and gardens to farms and recreation areas. It’s a critical time to educate and inspire Californians to be thoughtful about how we use water and protect it.
Spotlight on Southern California
In regions like Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, water agencies are hosting events and initiatives to educate and engage communities.
Here's a look at what's happening in these areas:
Orange County
1. Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD)
On Saturday, June 7, SMWD will host its annual Water Festival at their headquarters in Rancho Santa Margarita. The event features family-friendly activities, including live animal exhibits, garden tours, and infrastructure tours of local water facilities. 🔗 Learn more.
2. Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC)
MWDOC continues its tradition with the Water Awareness Poster Contest, inviting K–12 students to create artwork highlighting water conservation. Winning entries were featured in the district's annual calendar. 🔗 Learn more and see the winners.
3. Orange County Water District (OCWD)
OCWD is offering a public tour of its Groundwater Replenishment System on Friday, May 9. Attendees can learn about the world's largest advanced water purification system for potable reuse. You can learn about their tours (🔗Orange County Water District) or 🔗 Sign up for a tour.
Los Angeles County
1. Pasadena Water and Power (PWP)
PWP is hosting several events for the month of May.
- Pop-In to Win: Educational booths at local farmers markets on May 3 and May 6.
- Virtual Water Town Hall: An online session on May 7 discussing water sources and sustainability efforts.
- Monk Hill Water Facility Tour: An in-person tour on May 10 showcasing Pasadena's water treatment processes.
2. Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District
Throughout May, the district is highlighting its programs and initiatives on social media to promote water awareness. The district is holding their water fest on May 3rd, 2025.
Riverside County
1. Western Municipal Water District (WMWD)
WMWD hosted its Water Works Wonders open house on Saturday, April 26, offering interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and facility tours to educate the public about water services.🔗 Event recap
2. Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA)
IEUA is celebrating Water Awareness Month by partnering with regional agencies to promote public health and water conservation through various initiatives. 🔗 Explore their work
San Bernardino County
1. San Bernardino Municipal Water Department (SBMWD)
SBMWD is conducting its annual Water Awareness Poster Contest, encouraging students to express the importance of water conservation through art. 🔗 View submissions
2. Desert Water Agency
See how the Desert Water Agency has celebrated Water Awareness Month in the past. 🔗 More info here
UC ANR SoCal Water Resources and Water StewardshipAt University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), water stewardship is woven into everything we do, from research and community education to sustainable agriculture and urban landscape management. The Urban Watershed Resilience team at South Coast Research and Extension Center, Cooperative Extension Advisors, and campus-based Specialists work together to improve water efficiency, protect water quality, and build resilient communities. Water Awareness Month reminds us that we all have a role to play in safeguarding California’s water resources. Whether you're a farmer, a homeowner, a student, or simply a concerned citizen, your actions matter. |
📣 Get Involved & Stay Connected
Water Awareness Month is your invitation to act. Whether you patch a leak, attend a workshop, or share tips online, you’re part of the solution.
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📩 Email Dr. Esther Lofton at: anrsocalwater@gmail.com or call 858-282-6737
📲 Tag us with your water-saving actions and help spread the word!
Because the future of California flows through every drop we save. 💧
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