Below are Western press releases. Click on the topic you are interested in for full details. For Western's FACT sheet, click here.

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Western’s GM John Rossi appointed chairperson of the Riverside County Water Task Force
RIVERSIDE, CA – March 25, 2008 – Western Municipal Water District’s General Manager, John V. Rossi, was appointed chairperson of the Riverside County Water Task Force last week. The Task Force is being reconvened after a brief hiatus to address several key water issues affecting the region and the state as a whole.

Western Conservation Specialist Appointed to State Model Landscape Ordinance Stakeholder Committee - Along with new appointment come improvements to ordinance
RIVERSIDE, CA – MARCH 26, 2008 – Western Municipal Water District’s conservation specialist, Pam Pavela, was recently appointed to the California State Model Landscape Ordinance Stakeholder Committee. Pavela has been involved in the development of the Riverside County, as well as the cities of Riverside and Murrieta, regional model landscape ordinance and now has the opportunity to share her knowledge and expertise at the state level. The committee reports to the California Department of Water Resources.

Temporary Urgency Water Right Permit Granted for Use of Seven Oaks Dam Stored Water
RIVERSIDE, CA – March 27, 2008 – Western Municipal Water District, along with the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District, has received permission for immediate use to capture up to 42,100 acre-feet of Santa Ana River water stored behind the Seven Oaks Dam that would otherwise be released downstream.

RECENT MEDIA COVERAGE

• The Press-Enterprise, Water Reason, April 1, 2008
• The Californian, Rossi named water task force chair, March 31, 2008
• The Press-Enterprise, Murrieta closer to replacing septic systems with sewer lines, March 30, 2008; Rocky Salmon
• The Press-Enterprise, Utilities get temporary access to Seven Oaks Dam water, March 28, 2008; Jennifer Bowles
• The Press-Enterprise, Western Municipal Water District candidates lay out opinions early, March 27, 2008; Sandra Stokley
  

Rancho California Water District receives a check for $335,601 from Western Municipal Water District for water conservation efforts
TEMECULA, CA – MARCH 13, 2008 – At 8:30 a.m. today during the Rancho California Water District (RCWD/District) Board of Directors meeting, Western Municipal Water District (Western) presented a check to the District in the amount of $335,601. The check was awarded to RCWD as a result of their weather-based irrigation controller program, which preserves and sustains water resources throughout the Valley. “Western is committed to increasing water use efficiency in our region and is very pleased to support RCWD for their conservation efforts,” says S.R. “Al” Lopez, Western Board President. “The weather-based irrigation controller program is effective in meeting the water-saving goals for the program. We’re proud to be a part of this innovative effort.”

WRCOG Expands Membership to Include Two Regional Water Districts
RIVERSIDE, CA – MARCH 11, 2008 - The Western Riverside Council of Governments will expand its membership for the first time since its inception to include non-jurisdictional members as it voted to include Western Municipal Water District and the Eastern Municipal Water District

Five Western Municipal Water District Employees Set the PACE

Riverside, CA – February 19, 2008 – Five individuals were chosen to receive Western’s 2007 PACE award for their Pride, Achievement, Creativity and Enthusiasm on the job. Dave Escalera, Monique Navarrette, Margo McDaniels, Ray Marshall and Tom Tabor were awarded the PACE.

Water Agencies Enter into Facilities Sharing Agreement

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – February 6, 2008 – Today, three Inland Empire water agencies entered into a facilities sharing agreement that will increase local water supplies, improve efficiency and save money. Under the agreement, the agencies will share existing facilities and land to capture water from the Santa Ana River and store it in the local groundwater basin for use as drinking water by local communities. The agreement will open existing facilities and lands to new uses by cooperating water agencies resulting in more efficient use of the local water resources needed to maintain water supply reliability of the increasing demands of the region.

Regional Water Crisis Prompts Water Agency-City-County
Roundtable - candid discussion will focus on understanding and mitigating water shortages
Riverside, CA – Jan. 28, 2008 – With major cutbacks of water imported from the Delta simultaneous with a severe drought in the Colorado River Basin, the General Managers of water agencies serving inland cities and county areas have concluded there is no time to waste in helping their local government counterparts understand and responsibly mitigate the potential impacts of the crisis.

Backyard Composting Workshop Comes to Riverside

RIVERSIDE, CA - Jan. 25, 2008 - The Riverside County Waste Management Department Backyard Composting Program comes to Riverside on Saturday, April 19.

Western Riverside County Teachers to Be Recognized for Their
Commitment and Dedication to Water Education
RIVERSIDE, CA - January 21, 2008 – Three teachers selected as 2007 Western Riverside County Water Educators of the Year and fifteen educators awarded nearly $8,000 for 2008 Lois B. Krieger Water Project Grants for Educators will be recognized Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. at Western Municipal Water District, 450 E. Alessandro Boulevard in Riverside. Western’s Board members, S.R. “Al” Lopez, Tom Evans and Brenda Dennstedt will be on hand to present the awards.

Western's Board President and former Corona Mayor Seated on Metropolitan Board RIVERSIDE, CA - Jan. 9, 2008 ~ Former mayor of Corona and Riverside County water official S.R. “Al” Lopez was seated today as a member of the board of directors of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.

Western’s Representative to the Metropolitan Water District, John M. “Terry” Mylne, ends term
RIVERSIDE, CA – January 8, 2008 – John M. “Terry” Mylne III ended his term representing Western Municipal Water District on the Metropolitan Water District board of directors Dec. 30, 2007. He had represented Western since 1993. Western’s Board and general manager, John Rossi, recognized his dedicated service at a December board meeting, presenting him with a framed copy of the retirement resolution.

Former Board Member Wayne H. Holcomb Honored Posthumously

RIVERSIDE, CA – December 17, 2007 – Western Municipal Water District posthumously recognized former board member Wayne H. Holcomb for his long-standing service on the Board of Directors by dedicating a water pump station and planting a water-efficient Crape Myrtle tree in his memory Dec. 5.

Riverside County schools selected for Solar Cup Sponsorship
Western Municipal Water District, Rancho California Water District and Riverside Public Utilities underwrite $15,500 for Funding
RIVERSIDE, CA – November 30, 2007 – Citrus Hill High School, Elsinore High School, Jurupa Valley High School, John W. North High School and Murrieta Valley High School were all selected to be a part of the 2008 Metropolitan Water District Solar Cup competition, an innovative educational program that introduces students to science while providing an awareness of water quality issues. Western Municipal Water District is sponsoring teams Citrus Hill, Elsinore, and Jurupa Valley; Rancho California Water District is sponsoring team Murrieta Valley; and Riverside Public Utilities is sponsoring John W. North.

Western to address 2008 agriculture water cutbacks with area growers at November 20th forum
Riverside, CA – November 16, 2007 – Western Municipal Water District, the Riverside County Farm Bureau and other water and industry agencies have invited Riverside County farmers, ranchers and nursery growers to learn more about 2008 agricultural water cutbacks. The “AG Water Outlook for 2008” event will be held November.

RECENT MEDIA COVERAGE

• The Press-Enterprise, Inland Farmers Among First In Line to Feel Strain From Drought, Nov. 17, 2007

Rancho California Water District to be recognized for water-use efficiency efforts
TEMECULA, CA – NOVEMBER 6, 2007 – Rancho California Water District (RCWD) will be recognized by Western Municipal Water District with a $110,193.67 rebate check for its water-use efficiency efforts at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 8 at the RCWD Board Meeting. The acknowledgment is for the replacement purchase and installation of smart irrigation controllers at Paseo Del Sol through a partnership with their homeowners association. The check will be presented by Western’s board director, Brenda Dennstedt, who represents the area in Division 3.

“Water Efficient Gardens in Full Bloom” Premieres Oct. 15th
Western’s Landscapes Southern California Style Featured

RIVERSIDE, CA - October 11, 2007 - “Water Efficient Gardens in Full Bloom,” the 16th episode of the “California’s Water” public television series produced by Huell Howser, is set to air Oct. 15th at 7:30 p.m. on KCET. This episode features Western Municipal Water District’s Landscapes Southern California StyleSM. The segment will then be available to air statewide on PBS stations. Check your local listings for details.

Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District to be recognized for water-use efficiency efforts
LAKE ELSINORE, CA – SEPTEMBER 25, 2007 – Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) will be recognized by Western Municipal Water District with a $135,430 rebate check for its water-use efficiency efforts at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27 at the EVMWD Board Meeting. The acknowledgment, which is mainly for the replacement of 460 non-conserving toilets with high-efficiency models, will be given by Western’s board director, Brenda Dennstedt, who represents the area in Division 3.

Water supply disinfection to be converted to chloramines

RIVERSIDE, CA – September 20, 2007 – Western Municipal Water District’s Murrieta Division will be converting its water supply for a period of approximately one month to water treated with chloramines instead of chlorine that the District normally uses. Western is making necessary adjustments to its water system in response to a recent elevated test result for arsenic in one of its Murrieta wells – the New Clay Well. No reportable violation for arsenic levels, as established by the California Department of Public Health, has occurred. The water has been, and remains, safe to drink. These actions are being taken as precautionary steps.

RECENT MEDIA COVERAGE

• The Press-Enterprise, For now, Inland water shortage won't prompt mandatory savings, Oct. 8, 2007
• The Press-Enterprise, Inland lawns are chief drain on water supply, Sept. 27, 2007
• The Californian, Chloramine treatment coming to old Murrieta, Sept. 6, 2007
• The Press-Enterprise, Ruling spurs 'great deal of uncertainty over water supply’, Sept. 6, 200
• The Press-Enterprise, Op-Ed by Board President Don Galleano, July 15, 2007

Iris Sale Slated for Sept. 15th & 16th at Western
Hundreds to choose from at Landscapes Southern California StyleSM

RIVERSIDE, CA – September 7, 2007 – The Inland Region Iris Society is having their annual Fall Rhizome Sale on Sept. 15th (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and the 16th (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) at Western Municipal Water District’s Landscapes Southern California StyleSM. Many beautiful iris will be available to choose from – pinks, bitones, yellows, purples, near blacks and many other special colors including water iris.

Learn How To Create a Lush, Water-wise Landscape - Free Courses at Western
RIVERSIDE, CA – September 4, 2007 – Western Municipal Water District is offering a new four-part Saturday series of classes designed to help customers and area residents create beautiful, water efficient landscapes. These free workshops will feature in-depth classes in:
• Landscape Design Basics
• California Friendly Plants
• Efficient Irrigation Systems
• Soils, Fertilizers & Watering

Public Open House scheduled for Aug. 18 for major pipeline construction project in Mission Grove Area

The public is invited to learn more about a major Metropolitan Water District pipeline construction project set to begin next month along Alessandro Boulevard in the Mission Grove area of Riverside at a special open house Saturday, Aug. 18.

“Native Nights” at Landscapes Southern California Style

Local water agencies to host California native plant event
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Riverside, CA – August 1, 2007 – Riverside County residents are invited to participate in an enchanted evening event at Western Municipal Water District’s water conservation garden, Landscapes Southern California StyleSM, Thursday, Aug. 30 at 6 p.m. “Native Nights” is a free water-wise event being hosted by Western, Eastern Municipal Water District and the Corona Department of Water and Power. The event will showcase California-friendly and native plants and how to incorporate them into landscapes.

“A Summer Must, Only Water After Dusk”
Consortium of water agencies launch summer water conservation campaign
RIVERSIDE, CALIF. ~ June 20, 2007 ~ A new summer conservation campaign for Western Riverside County will launch just in time for the first day of summer on June 21. During the hot summer months, consumers are being urged to pay close attention to water use with a focus on outdoor watering practices. "A Summer Must, Only Water After Dusk" is the campaign slogan and encourages watering only after dusk, for 15 minutes, 4 times a week*. The community outreach campaign is sponsored by six local water and power utilities.

MEDIA COVERAGE

Recent coverage for the "Summer Must" campaign.

House of Representatives authorizes HR 1139 and joins Senator Feinstein in supporting a major regional drought-proofing project – Western Municipal Water District’s Riverside-Corona Feeder

Riverside, CA –June 5, 2007 – The House of Representatives passed HR 1139 today, strongly reinforcing U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein’s late May introduction of S 1474, a bill that will help fund an integrated water supply system that could sustain the western San Bernardino-Riverside county region during a drought period or due to a loss of imported water supplies – Western’s Riverside-Corona Feeder.

MEDIA COVERAGE

Recent coverage for the Riverside-Corona Feeder.

Splash Fest flows to The Crossings at Corona Saturday!
CORONA, CA – MAY 10, 2007 – Follow the drops of knowledge and excitement to Saturday’s Splash Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Crossings at Corona. In the spirit of being water-wise and to celebrate Water Awareness Month, kids and adults alike can partake in this May 12th learning-soaked, activity-laden event. A free, fun and educational event, the festival is hosted by a halfdozen water agencies and other community organizations.

Western Municipal Water District’s drought-proofing project,
the Riverside-Corona Feeder, gains $4.3 million in funding
Riverside, CA – April 12, 2007 – The Riverside-Corona Feeder, Western Municipal Water District’s drought-proofing project, was recently infused with $4.3 million from a State Water Resources Control Board grant providing greater regional water supply reliability.

Ladybugs take flight for Earth Day to help students learn about water
RIVERSIDE, CA ~ April 12, 2007 ~ Two fifth grade classrooms from John F. Kennedy Elementary School will partake in Earth Day activities and have fun learning about the importance of water Monday, April 16, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Western Municipal Water District’s outdoor water conservation demonstration center, Landscapes Southern California StyleSM.

Water-wise plants on sale at event hosted by Western

RIVERSIDE, CA ~ March 5, 2007 ~ Hundreds of water-wise plants will be on sale Saturday, April 21, from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Western Municipal Water District’s Landscapes Southern California StyleSM water conservation education center in Riverside.

New board members join Western Municipal Water District; governing board elects officers

Riverside, CA – January 11, 2007 – At its regular meeting yesterday, the Board of Directors of the Western Municipal Water District elected new officers:
Donald D. Galleano, president
S. R. “Al” Lopez, vice-president
Thomas P. Evans, secretary-treasurer
Three new Directors - Charles D. Field, Brenda Dennstedt and Evans - were elected to the Western’s Board of Directors last November and began their four-year terms of office Jan. 8. Two Directors - Galleano and Lopez - are returning to continuing terms of office.

Western Municipal Water District recommends caution regarding door-to-door solicitation
Riverside, CA – January 10, 2007 – Western Municipal Water District has recently been alerted that solicitors may be attempting to gain access to customers’ homes in the Murrieta area by posing as Western Municipal Water District employees. Western neither supports nor endorses any third-party water testing or treatment vendors.

Western Riverside County teachers to be recognized for their commitment and dedication to water education - 2006 Water Educators of The Year and
2007 Lois B. Krieger Water Project Grants for Educators
RIVERSIDE, CA - January 2, 2007 – Two teachers selected as 2006 Western Riverside County Water Educators of the Year and fifteen educators awarded the Lois B. Krieger Water Project Grants for Educators will be recognized Thursday, Jan. 4 at 7 p.m. at Western Municipal Water District.

A free water conservation theatre program for students in western Riverside County
RIVERSIDE, CA - January 2, 2007 – Students in grades kindergarten through third attending schools throughout western Riverside County have been invited to watch, listen and learn from “The Adventures of the California Hydroforce,” a free theatre style water education performance that will take place in February and March.

Western Municipal Water District garners top honors for legislative outreach

Riverside, CA – December 27, 2006 – Western Municipal Water District received the highest honor from the Association of California Water Agencies (AWCA) for outstanding achievement in legislative outreach during 2006.

Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District to receive $4.7 million grant from Metropolitan Water District for water supply reliability project
Lake Elsinore, CA – Dec 13, 2006 – Thanks to a $4.7 million grant from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, customers of the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District will benefit from enhanced water supply reliability during dry years.

Three Directors to join Board of Western Municipal Water District in ‘07

Riverside, CA – December 13, 2006 – As a result of the November 7, 2006 election, three new members will join the governing board of the Western Municipal Water District on January 8, 2007.

Water Education Advisory Council selects Rubidoux High School for Solar Cup Sponsorship Western Municipal Water District underwrites $3,000 for funding
RIVERSIDE, CA – December 6, 2006 – Teacher, Jennifer Jiannino, and her team of students at Rubidoux High School were selected to represent the Water Education Advisory Council of western Riverside County in the 2007 Metropolitan Water District Solar Cup competition, an innovative educational program that introduces students to science while providing an awareness of water quality issues.

Ground Water Institute for Teachers to be held Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at Western Municipal Water District

Riverside, CA –November 29, 2006 – A contingent of Inland Empire teachers will reap the rewards of in-depth groundwater information and training during the two-day American Ground Water Trust Institute for Teachers, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, at Western Municipal Water District’s headquarters.

Western Notes Passing of Former Board Member Wayne H. Holcomb
Riverside, CA – November 21, 2006 – Western Municipal Water District is saddened to note the passing of former Board member Wayne H. Holcomb. Holcomb, 82, had resigned from the Board of Directors on October 6.

Riverside forum to feature Public Policy Institute’s research on “Lawns and Water Demand in California”

Riverside, CA – October 19, 2006 – Landscapes Southern California Style, Western Municipal Water District’s outdoor water conservation education center in Riverside, will be the site for a landscape water use forum on October 30 at 11:30 am. “Outdoor Water Use…Consumers and Conservation” is sponsored by Western, the Public Policy Institute of California, as well as Eastern Municipal and Rancho California Water Districts.

Western Municipal Water District joins with local nursery for seminar on California Friendly plants
RIVERSIDE, CA ~ October 13, 2006 ~ Western Municipal Water District and Louie’s Nursery in Riverside will be sponsoring a free seminar on California Friendly plants on Saturday, October 21, at 10 am at the nursery. 

Western Municipal Water District announces retirement of Board Member Wayne H. Holcomb
Riverside, CA – October 12, 2006 – Wayne H. Holcomb, member of the governing board of the Western Municipal Water District, has retired from the District’s Board effective October 6.

“California Friendly Gardening for the Water-wise Gardener” - A free class offered by Western Municipal Water District

Riverside, CA – September 1, 2006 – Western Municipal Water District is offering a free water-wise landscape class, “California Friendly Gardening for the Water-wise Gardner”, Saturday, Sept. 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Irises galore at Western Municipal Water District - Annual Iris Sale Sept. 9 & 10
Riverside, CA – September 1, 2006 – For two full days, Saturday and Sunday Sept. 9 and 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., a fine selection of irises will be available at Landscapes Southern California Style.The Iris Sale offers a large variety of quality Tall Bearded Iris rhizomes, as well as potted Iris. It’s recommended that attendees arrive early for the best selection. The sale is a benefit for the Inland Region Iris Society.

“How Much Water is Enough?” Summer Water Conservation Campaign Launched
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Murrieta, CA – June 16, 2006 – A new summer water conservation campaign has been launched by local water agencies in Southwest Riverside County.

Hydrant flushing causes discolored water

Murrieta, CA – May 2, 2006 – A contractor working near Teneja and Hayes in Murrieta used three fire hydrants to flush newly-constructed water lines on Tuesday, stirring up sediment in existing water lines. About 30 residents in the area reported discolored water at their tap to their water service provider, Western Municipal Water District.

Corona business to be recognized for water conservation efforts
CORONA, CA – APRIL 28, 2006 – Ayres Inn, located at 2260 Griffin Way in Corona, will be recognized for its water saving efforts at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 1 by the Corona Department of Water & Power and the Western Municipal Water District of Riverside County. Corona Mayor Karen Spiegel and Western’s Division Five Director S.R. “Al” Lopez will be on-hand to thank owner Douglas Ayres for the inn’s water conservation efforts via the replacement of non-conserving toilets with ultra low flush models.

Local Fifth Graders Celebrate Earth Day with Traditional Lady Bug Release
RIVERSIDE, CA – April 20, 2006 – More than 50 students from John F. Kennedy Elementary School in Riverside spent Thursday morning playing with bugs and eating ice cream, and they also learned a whole lot. It was all part of Western Municipal Water District’s Earth Day celebration at Landscapes Southern California StyleSM, the District’s outdoor water conservation education center.

Employees set the PACE at Western Municipal Water District

Riverside, CA – March 27, 2006 – Recognized March 6 for making outstanding contributions to Western Municipal Water District in 2005 were a half dozen employees – Sonia Huff, Phil Calderon, Luis Sahagun, Jim Boucher, Brenda Escoto and Bob Frosheiser. The six employees were presented with the PACE (Pride Achievement Creativity Enthusiasm) Award. The PACE Award provides formal recognition to individual employees who go above and beyond in the performance of his or her job duties demonstrating teamwork, professionalism and creativity while also contributing to the enhancement of Western’s image.

Two Jurupa students recognized for outstanding science fair projects
Riverside, CA – March 10, 2006 – Two Jurupa area students were recognized for having the top water-related science fair projects submitted to the Jurupa Unified School District Science and Engineering Fair held in March.

Jeff Sims Appointed Assistant General Manager for Western Municipal Water District Riverside, CA – March 6, 2006 – Jeff Sims has been appointed assistant general manager for the Western Municipal Water District.

A free water conservation theatre program for students in western Riverside County
RIVERSIDE, CA - February 9, 2006 – Students in grades kindergarten through third attending schools throughout western Riverside County have been invited to watch, listen and learn from “The Adventures of the California Hydroforce,” a free theatre-style water education performance that will take place in February and March.

Western Municipal Water District recognized for Outstanding Environmental Document

Riverside, CA – February 3, 2006 – Western Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors accepted the Outstanding Environmental Analysis Document award for 2005 from the Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP), Inland Empire chapter on February 1.

High nitrate level reported in one well in Murrieta

MURRIETA, CA – JANUARY 31, 2006 – The water sample from one well within the Western Municipal Water District drinking water system in Murrieta showed a nitrate level that exceeded state regulations. Tests on the Holiday well, collected on January 26, 2006 and confirmed January 30, showed a nitrate level of 49 milligrams per liter (mg/L). The state maximum contaminant level is 45 milligrams per liter. Western has shut down the well. The well will remain off until an engineered solution can be developed to ensure nitrate levels remain well below the state MCL.

First meeting of Western Municipal Water District Murrieta Advisory Committee scheduled for January 24
Murrieta, CA – January 20, 2006 – The first meeting of the citizen’s advisory committee to the Western Municipal Water District will be held on Tuesday, Jan 24 at 7:00 pm at Western’s Murrieta offices, 42290 Ivy Street, Murrieta.

Western Riverside County teachers recognized for their commitment and dedication to water education 2005 Water Educators of The Year
RIVERSIDE, CA - January 13, 2006 – Three teachers selected as 2005 Western Riverside County Water Educators of the Year and thirteen educators awarded the Lois B. Krieger Water Project Grants for Educators were recognized Jan. 11 at a reception held at Western Municipal Water District.

Western Municipal Water District offers free water-wise landscape workshops

Riverside, CA – January 6, 2006 – Western Municipal Water District is offering its renowned two-part, water-wise landscape workshop series, “Getting Rooted Right” and “Water-wise Technologies for Any Yard”, January 28 and February 11, two Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon. Attendees who put the concepts and information from the classroom to work in their own landscapes can reduce outdoor water usage by up to 50 percent.

Western Board Elects Officers

RIVERSIDE, CA – January 4, 2006 – At its January 4 meeting, the Board of Directors of the Western Municipal Water District elected new officers: Kevin D. Jeffries, president; Elizabeth L. Cunnison, vice-president Wayne H. Holcomb, secretary-treasurer.

Western Riverside County Teachers to be Recognized for their Commitment
RIVERSIDE, CA - January 6, 2006 – Three teachers selected as 2005 Western Riverside County Water Educators of the Year and thirteen educators awarded the Lois B. Krieger Water Project Grants for Educators will be recognized Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. at Western Municipal Water District, 450 Alessandro Boulevard in Riverside.

New Water Conservation Technology On Tap For Colony

MURRIETA, CA – December 14, 2005 - The Colony Homeowners Association in Murrieta is joining the water conservation team. On Monday, December 19, it will hold a ground-breaking ceremony at the Colony Clubhouse at 10:00 am to mark the beginning of a major irrigation overhaul in the community’s common areas. The irrigation retrofit will save 98 acre feet of water annually. An acre foot of water is about 326,000 gallons, enough to supply two average families for one year.

RIVERSIDE BUSINESS RECOGNIZED FOR WATER CONSERVATION EFFORTS
RIVERSIDE, CA – DECEMBER 5, 2005 – Jurupa Coin Laundry was presented with a water conservation rebate November 30 for $1,600 by Western Municipal Water District of Riverside County and the City of Riverside Public Utilities. Western Director Wayne Holcomb and City of Riverside Public Utilities Account Manager Lynn Scott were on-hand to present the check.

LAKE ELSINORE BUSINESS RECOGNIZED FOR WATER CONSERVATION EFFORTS LAKE ELSINORE, CA – NOVEMBER 23, 2005 – Lakeview Inn was presented with a water conservation rebate check Monday for $3,480 by Western Municipal Water District of Riverside County and the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District. Representatives from both districts were on-hand to present the check.

JURUPA VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL TO COMPETE IN ANNUAL SOLAR CUP - WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT PRESENTS $3000 SPONSORSHIP CHECK
RIVERSIDE, CA - November 22, 2005 – Western Municipal Water District, along with Jurupa Community Services District, presented a check for $3,000 to the Jurupa Valley High School in order to sponsor their participation in the 2006 Metropolitan Water District Solar Cup competition.

PUBLIC INVITED TO OPEN HOUSE INTRODUCING WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT; FINAL BOARD MEETING OF MURRIETA COUNTY WATER DISTRICT IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING OPEN HOUSE
RIVERSIDE, CA – NOVEMBER 18, 2005 – Customers of the Murrieta County Water District (MCWD) are invited to attend an open house on Tuesday, November 22 at 4:00 pm and be introduced to their new water and wastewater service provider, Western Municipal Water District. The open house will take place at MCWD’s offices, 42290 Ivy Street, Murrieta, immediately following the final MCWD Board meeting. The Board meeting is open to the public as well and starts at 3:00 p.m.

LAKE ELSINORE LAUNDROMAT RECOGNIZED FOR WATER CONSERVATION EFFORTS
LAKE ELSINORE, CA – OCTOBER 26, 2005 – Clay Saunders, owner of Launderland, was presented with a water conservation rebate check for $1,700 by Western Municipal Water District and the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 16746 Lakeshore Drive in Lake Elsinore. Representatives from both districts were on-hand to present the check.

CELEBRATING WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT'S NONPOTABLE WATER PROJECT
RIVERSIDE, CA – October 31, 2005 – Western Municipal Water District marked the completion of its nonpotable water conveyance system with a celebration in late October that culminated with the release of the new water source for irrigation.

INLAND RESIDENTS CAN LEARN HOW TO CHOOSE AND CULTIVATE CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANTS

September 1, 2005 – Riverside County water districts host a free unique water-wise evening workshop, “Native Nights”, tonight at Landscapes Southern California StyleSM in Riverside. Beginning at 7 p.m., attendees will be treated to a healthy dose of water-wise information focusing on the use of California native plants in their landscapes.

WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT RECEIVES GRANT FUNDS TO HELP ENHANCE LOCAL WATER SUPPLIES

RIVERSIDE, CA – MAY 31, 2005 – Two state grants – one to study the feasibility of increasing drinking water supplies from a local desalter and one to help fund a reclaimed water master plan in Riverside County – have been awarded to the Western Municipal Water District. The two grants total $325,000.

WESTERN'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPROVES NEW WATER RATE STRUCTURE PROVIDING EQUITY AMONG THE DISTRICT'S RETAIL CUSTOMERS
RIVERSIDE, CA – MAY 18, 2005 – At its board meeting today, Western Municipal Water District’s board of directors voted to approve and adopt Ordinance 360 that will restructure the District’s retail water rates. This change in retail water rates will become effective October 1.

TOUR WESTERN'S WATER CONSERVATION EDUCATION CENTER AND LEARN ABOUT WATER-WISE LANDSCAPING
RIVERSIDE, CA – MAY 4, 2005 – In celebration of Water Awareness Month, Western Municipal Water District is offering free guided tours each Friday in May at 11 a.m. Tour attendees will learn about water conservation and the principles of water-wise landscaping at Western’s outdoor water conservation education center, Landscapes Southern California StyleSM.

WESTERN'S WATER TALK SPEAKERS EXPLAIN THE REGION'S WATER SOURCES, SYSTEMS, SAFETY AND RELIABILITY

RIVERSIDE, CA – April 26, 2005 – Inland Empire community groups can learn about the region’s water supplies and related water issues by requesting a Western WATER TALK speaker for their group’s monthly meetings. Western Municipal Water District can provide expert speakers on these subjects for area community groups, shedding light on topics like water conservation, Southern California’s water supply outlook and water quality via its WATER TALK speakers bureau program.

LOCAL STUDENTS TO RELEASE LADYBUGS IN CELEBRATION OF EARTH DAY 2005

Riverside, CA - April 18, 2005 - Students from Taft Elementary School in Riverside will reach to the sky Thursday, April 21, and release thousands of ladybugs, culminating a morning at Western Municipal Water District's outdoor water conservation education center Earth Day celebration.

FORMER GENERAL MANAGER HOWARD A. HICKS DIES APRIL 5

RIVERSIDE, CA – April 11, 2005 – Howard A. Hicks, general manager at Western Municipal Water District from 1964 to 1989, passed away April 5 at the age of 84. Hicks joined Western in 1964 as assistant general manager. In 1967, he became general manager, also serving as treasurer for the District. Among his many professional accomplishments, Hicks was a founder of the Santa Ana Watershed Planning Agency, now known as the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority. He was also instrumental in championing the agricultural industry in Riverside and was among the first to urge agricultural water conservation.

FIVE EMPLOYEES SET THE PACE AT WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT
RIVERSIDE, CA – March 4, 2005 - Western Municipal Water District recognized five outstanding employees with its PACE (Pride Achievement Creativity Enthusiasm) Award for the 2004 work year. The PACE Award provides formal recognition to individual employees who go above and beyond in the performance of his or her job duties demonstrating teamwork, professionalism and creativity while also contributing to the enhancement of Western’s image. Ed Acosta, Son Bui, Fernando Garcia, Scott McAnally and Jean Perry were chosen by their supervisors for the PACE Award.

FEDERAL LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE WATER SUPPLY AND DROUGHT PROTECTION IN WESTERN RIVERSIDE COUNTY INTRODUCED The Riverside-Corona Feeder project also supported by Riverside County Board of Supervisors
Riverside, CA – March 2, 2005 – Federal legislation to authorize the Riverside-Corona Feeder, a drought protection project proposed by the Western Municipal Water District, has been introduced by Congressman Ken Calvert.

WESTERN OFFERS FREE WATER-WISE LANDSCAPE WORKSHOPS
Riverside, CA – February 14, 2005 – Western Municipal Water District is offering its renowned two-part, water-wise landscape workshop series, “Getting Rooted Right” and “Water-wise Technologies for Any Yard”, February 26 and March 5.

WESTERN THANKS CUSTOMERS FOR CONSERVATION EFFORTS DURING MAINTENANCE SHUTDOWN

Riverside, CA – February 6, 2005 – More than 17,000 retail water customers of the Western Municipal Water District demonstrated outstanding water conservation from February 1 through 5, allowing the District to maintain water levels to meet health and safety needs during a maintenance shutdown.

WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT ELECTS OFFICERS

Riverside, CA – January 5, 2005 – At its January 5 meeting, the Board of Directors of the Western Municipal Water District elected officers. The term of office for the officers is one year.S. R. “Al” Lopez was elected president, Kevin D. Jeffries, vice-president, and Elizabeth L. Cunnison, secretary-treasurer.

DONALD D. GALLEANO JOINS WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Riverside, CA – January 5, 2005 – Donald D. Galleano of Mira Loma was seated on the Board of Directors of the Western Municipal Water District at its January 5 meeting.

S. R. “Al” LOPEZ BEGINS SECOND TERM ON
WESTERN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Riverside, CA – January 5, 2005 – S. R. “Al” Lopez of Corona began his second four-year term as a director on the Western Municipal Water District Board on January 5.

Four Riverside County teachers to be honored as Water Educators of the Year

RIVERSIDE, CA - December 17, 2004 – Four teachers selected as Western Riverside County Water Educators of the Year will be recognized Monday, December 13 at 7 p.m. at Western Municipal Water District, 450 Alessandro Boulevard in Riverside.

Western Riverside County teachers awarded grants for water-related classroom projects
RIVERSIDE, CA - December 17, 2004 – A dozen teachers from throughout western Riverside County schools were selected as recipients of the Lois B. Krieger Water Project Grants for Educators, funded by Western Municipal Water District. Each grant winner will implement water-related classroom projects funded by the grants within the 2004-05 school year. Corona teachers. Southwest County teachers. Riverside teachers.

Norco High School to receive $3,000 from Western Municipal Water District in support of participation in solar-powered boat competition

RIVERSIDE, CA – December 7, 2004 – An enterprising teacher, Challyn LeFever, and her team of engineering-minded physics students at Norco High School were selected to represent Western Municipal Water District in the 2005 Metropolitan Water District Solar Cup competition, an innovative educational program that introduces students to science while providing an awareness of water quality issues.

Imported water supply returns to usual disinfection method

Riverside, CA – September 7, 2004 – An imported water supply for western Riverside County water consumers will return to its usual water treatment process on September 7.

City of Riverside apartment complex recognized for water conservation efforts
Riverside, CA – August 19 2004 – Waller Properties LLC of Riverside was presented awater conservation rebate check for $4,500 by Western Municipal Water District and the City of Riverside Public Utilities.

Free water-wise landscaping workshops begin in September

Riverside, CA – August 19 2004 – Riverside county homeowners who want to save on their outside water bills have the opportunity to learn how by signing up for Western Municipal Water District’s two-part water-wise landscape workshops series. The free workshops are two consecutive Saturdays, September 11 and September 18. The seminars will be held at the District’s offices, adjacent to its water conservation education center, “Landscapes Southern California StyleSM”, 450 Alessandro Blvd., Riverside.

Eastern and Western Municipal Water Districts to host evening water-wise plant seminar - “Native Nights” will highlight California native plants

Riverside, CA – August 10, 2004– The Eastern and Western Municipal Water Districts will jointly host a special water-wise evening landscape seminar, “Native Nights” on Thursday, August 26, 2004. The session will begin at 7:00 pm at Western’s water conservation education center, Landscapes Southern California Stylesm 450 Alessandro Blvd., Riverside. Admission is free-of-charge.

Beat the heat and visit “Landscapes Southern California StyleSM” in the morning

Riverside, CA – August 10, 2004 – “Landscapes Southern California StyleSM”, Western Municipal Water District’s nationally-recognized, preeminent water conservation education center is opening earlier in the morning to accommodate visitors who’d like to avoid the summer heat. The center is now open from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. In the fall, the center will return to its regular hours of 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The center is always open seven days a week, except holidays.

Temporary water disinfection process change may affect taste and odor

Riverside, CA – July 26, 2004– Water consumers in western Riverside County who receive their water supplies from Western Municipal Water District or Eastern Municipal Water District may notice a slight change in the taste or odor of their tap water for five weeks, beginning Monday, August 2 and ending Tuesday, September 7. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, which supplies water to both Western and Eastern, will make a temporary switch in the disinfection process for maintenance.

Local agencies reach historical water rights settlement agreement
Redlands, CA -- July 21, 2004 – Water purveyors in the San Bernardino valley with existing historic rights to Santa Ana River water, including the Bear Valley Mutual Water Company, City of Redlands, East Valley Water District, Lugonia Water Company, North Fork Water Company, and Redlands Water Company, have reached agreement with Western Municipal Water District (Western) and San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District (SBVMWD) regarding water rights on the Santa Ana River.

Riverside County and Western Municipal Water District adopt Joint Policy Resolution regarding conservation of Santa Ana River Water resources

Riverside, CA -- June 22, 2004 – The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and the Western Municipal Water District have jointly adopted a policy resolution that will pave the way for the two entities to explore joint participation in water conservation projects on the Santa Ana River.

New general manager appointed for Western Municipal Water District

Riverside, CA – May 10, 2004 – At Western Municipal Water District’s May 5th board meeting, the Board of Directors selected John V. Rossi as Western’s general manager. Rossi, who will be responsible for the planning, direction, management, and overall supervision of the activities and operations of the District, had been chief executive officer for the Chino Basin Watermaster.