EMWD honored for classroom education efforts

Press release from Eastern Municipal Water District:

PERRIS -- Eastern Municipal Water District has been recognized as a “Utility of the Future Today” for its industry-leading classroom education program that engages students throughout the region.

The Utility of the Future Today is presented by the Water Environment Federation, along with its partners, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), the Water Research Foundation (WRF), WateReuse Association, and the United States Water Alliance, and their advisory partners, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the United States Department of Energy (DOE). The award recognizes forward-thinking utilities that develop and implement programs on behalf of their customers.

EMWD has previously been recognized for its energy management and recycled water efforts. This marks the third consecutive year that EMWD has received the award. A total of 34 agencies were honored this year.

EMWD received the recognition for the Partnering and Engagement category for its commitment to ensuring it has a well-educated and informed customer base, including with its youngest customers.

For several decades, EMWD has hosted a robust education program that educates students of all ages about water, wastewater and recycled water issues. This includes in-person and virtual classroom presentations, art and storybook contests, field trips, theater assembly programs, and more.

“We are proud of the work we have done in educating our youngest customers so that our next generation of ratepayers will understand the value of water,” EMWD Board President Phil Paule said. “We appreciate the Water Environment Federation and its partners for this honor, and we look forward to continuing the work we do in educating our community.”