Photo: Representatives from MSWD attended the CWEA Awards ceremony held in Palm Springs, April 24, 2025 (Left to Right: Stephanie Douglas, Project Manager for Mott McDonald & CWEA Board Member; Ted Mayrhofen, Director; Danny Friend, Director of Operations; Amber Duff, Director; Greg Chapman, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II; April Scott, Programs and Public Affairs Specialist; Robert Griffith, Board Vice President; Russ Martin, Director; Chris Jacobson, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II; Brian Macy, General Manager; and Jenn Jones, CWEA Executive Director.)
DLNews Biz:
Mission Springs Water District has been recognized statewide, earning first place in the California Water Environment Association’s (CWEA) Community Engagement & Outreach Program of the Year award. The honor celebrates the District’s extensive outreach campaign surrounding the Nancy Wright Regional Water Reclamation Facility — a transformative project for the agency and the community it serves.
The award was presented during CWEA’s recent statewide awards ceremony, underscoring the effectiveness and transparency of MSWD’s public engagement throughout the facility's design, construction, and completion. Officially opened in September 2024, the Nancy Wright Regional Water Reclamation Facility now stands as the largest infrastructure project in the District’s history, treating up to 1.5 million gallons of water per day.
“This was more than just a construction project—it was a commitment to our future,” said Ivan Sewell, President of the MSWD Board of Directors. “From the onset, we understood the importance of engaging with our customers to convey the long-term benefits this facility would bring to the District and the future growth of Desert Hot Springs. As the largest project in the District’s history, it was equally important to maintain full transparency regarding costs, particularly bringing awareness that it was part of a $68 million grant-funded project.”
The outreach campaign that accompanied the facility’s construction helped residents and ratepayers stay informed at every stage. With consistent updates, public tours, and educational messaging, MSWD emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of expanding local water reclamation. The facility protects local groundwater resources while supporting population growth and water security for decades.
CWEA, founded in 1928, represents thousands of water professionals across California and provides training, advocacy, and recognition to help shape the future of wastewater treatment and environmental stewardship. The association’s annual awards honor those who go above and beyond to serve their communities through innovation, service, and outreach.
This marks the third time Mission Springs Water District has received top honors from CWEA at the state level, further establishing MSWD as a public service and sustainability leader. For a complete list of MSWD’s awards and recognitions, visit www.mswd.org/awards.
With this latest achievement, MSWD continues to prove that good infrastructure and great communication can go hand in hand.
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