WRD_Fall 2025 Newsletter_Digital

2025 FALL NEWSLETTER WATER REPLENISHMENT DISTRICT

CLIMATE WHIPLASH,

A current rendering of the Torrance Groundwater Desalter Expansion Project that is part of WRD’s Brackish Groundwater Reclamation Program. Learn more inside this issue.

IN THIS ISSUE:

$9.6 MILLION FOR PFAS REMEDIATION

BGRP PROJECT UPDATE

GROUNDWATER LEVELS MONITORING

WRD BOARD OF DIRECTORS

A MESSAGE FROM BOARD PRESIDENT JOY LANGFORD Dear Friends, The effects of climate whiplash, a cycle of extreme drought followed by intense storms and rebounding back to drought conditions, continue to remind us just how critical long-term water resilience planning is for southern Los Angeles County. At the Water Replenishment District (WRD), we are actively monitoring drought conditions, preparing for variability, and most importantly, investing in the future of our groundwater.

Board President,

Joy Langford Division 1

Board Treasurer, Robert Katherman Division 2 Board Director, John D. S. Allen Division 3 Board Secretary, Sergio Calderon Division 4 Board Vice President, Vera Robles DeWitt Division 5

In this issue, we’re proud to share updates on the continued progress of our Brackish Groundwater Reclamation Program. This forwardthinking initiative will desalinate groundwater and purify it into a sustainable local supply for residents in the South Bay. It’s one of the many ways WRD is leading with innovation to protect and replenish our vital groundwater resources.

We also extend a sincere thank you to our partners and everyone who joined us for our 15th Annual Groundwater Festival! Your presence and enthusiasm help make our work meaningful, and we’re grateful for your continued engagement in the stewardship of our shared water future.

And great news, WRD has officially kicked off the annual Student Art Contest! This year’s theme is centered on resilience and water sustainability. We can’t wait to see how the next generation of artists envisions a brighter, more water-wise world.

Thank you for staying informed and engaged. As always, our team is here to be a resource and partner in groundwater education and management efforts.

With gratitude, Joy Langford WRD President of the Board

Follow us on our social media to stay up to date at @wrdsocal

WRD directors awarded the 2025 Groundwater Champions at the 15th Annual Groundwater Festival.

THE WRD SERVICE AREA THE WRD SERVICE AREA

Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling & Environmental Learning (ARC)

B

WRD‘s Robb Whitaker Treatment Facility, located on the campus of ARC, purifies 14.8 million gallons of water per day, providing a locally sustainable water supply for groundwater replenishment while bolstering drought-resiliency.

E

C

Leo J. Vander Lans Advanced Water Treatment Facility The Leo J. Vander Lans Facility purifies 8 million gallons of water per day for use in coastal injection wells, preventing seawater intrusion and providing supplemental groundwater replenishment.

D

Robert W. Goldsworthy Groundwater Desalter The Goldsworthy Desalter uses reverse osmosis to treat 5 million gallons of brackish (salty) groundwater that is trapped inland due to historical seawater intrusion.

The Water Replenishment District has been the steward of groundwater for southern Los Angeles County since 1959. Serving a region of 43 cities and nearly 4 million people, WRD manages two of the nation’s most utilized urban groundwater basins - the Central and West Coast Basins - which provide nearly 50% of the drinking water for our communities. The map above highlights our facilities. Together, these initiatives reduce our region’s dependence on imported water.

Perchlorate Cleanup Project in the Los Angeles Forebay WRD is leading efforts to clean up one of the state’s highest concentrations of perchlorate in groundwater located within the Los Angeles Forebay to protect the basin from further contamination and secure safe drinking water for the region.

CHECK OUT OUR SECURING OUR WATER FUTURE VIDEO BY SCANNING THE QR CODE TO SEE OUR TEAM AND PROJECTS IN ACTION.

PROJECT UPDATE: BRACKISH GROUNDWATER RECLAMATION PROGRAM The Brackish Groundwater Reclamation Program (BGRP) enhances climate resilience in the region by addressing critical water supply challenges in the West Coast Groundwater Basin by purifying a brackish (salty) groundwater plume in the South Bay, which occurred as a result of seawater intrusion from over-pumping in the early 1900s. To combat this, Los Angeles County Department of Public Works constructed seawater barrier injection wells that successfully prevented further contamination but trapped a plume of brackish groundwater that persists today.

ESTIMATED BRACKISH PLUME TOTAL VOLUME

405

= 600,000 acre-feet (20,000,000,000 gallons)

2017 Saline Plume Concentrations for the Silverado Aquifer mg/l = milligrams per liter

250 - 500 mg/l 500 - 1,000 mg/l 1,000 - 3,000 mg/l 3,000 - 5,000 mg/l > 5,000 mg/l

As part of the BGRP, the Torrance Groundwater Desalter Expansion Project includes four new extraction wells that will help double the facility’s capacity The graph shows the 14-square-mile plume of brackish groundwater trapped beneath the South Bay. to produce 6.2 to 7 million gallons per day (MGD) and support a sustainable drinking water supply for the community. We recently authorized construction of the conveyance pipelines that will support this project, and the next step is to officially begin construction on the facility.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BRACKISH GROUNDWATER RECLAMATION PROGRAM AND TRACK CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS, SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT: WWW.WRD.ORG/BRACKISH-GROUNDWATER-RECLAMATION-PROGRAM

WRD’S STEADY HAND AMID CLIMATE WHIPLASH Southern Los Angeles County’s water story has taken a dramatic turn in recent years, swinging from prolonged drought to record-breaking rainfall, only to settle again at just half of our annual average through July 2025. This climate whiplash underscores WRD’s critical role in monitoring and managing groundwater levels across the Central and West Coast Basins.

WRD’s hydrogeology team tracks basin conditions in real time, using a network of over 370 monitoring wells, ensuring that our region’s most vital water source remains resilient and responsive to extreme weather variability.

Following historic rains of 2023 and 2024, groundwater levels in key monitoring wells, like those in the Montebello Forebay, rebounded to record or near-record highs. WRD, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, captured nearly 426,000 acre-feet (139 billion gallons) of recycled water and local stormwater to recharge the basins during that 2-year period, demonstrating the power of local replenishment strategies. However, as conditions shift again, WRD continues to adapt. Through monthly basin updates, advanced modeling, and strategic use of facilities like the Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling and Environmental Learning, WRD is not only tracking the impacts of climate extremes but actively shaping a sustainable water future for southern Los Angeles County.

GROUNDWATER LEVELS UPDATE

SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT OUR WEBPAGE AT WWW.WRD.ORG/GROUNDWATER-BASINUPDATE TO ACCESS OUR MONTHLY GROUNDWATER BASIN UPDATE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF WRD’S MONITORING EFFORTS.

WRD ADVOCACY HELPS SECURE $9.6 MILLION FOR PFAS REMEDIATION WRD is proud to share that, through the dedicated advocacy and support of our staff, the Montebello Land and Water Company (MLWC) has been awarded $9.6 million in Proposition 1 grant funding from the State Water Resources Control Board. Funded by the 2014 Water Bond, this investment will enable the installation of a centralized PFAS treatment system—delivering cleaner, more reliable water to the Montebello community.

In addition to the State grant, MLWC previously received $6.5 million from WRD’s PFAS Remediation Program.

Together, these resources are making it possible to complete construction of the treatment system, which will remove PFAS from their seven production wells without increasing water rates for customers. This project is a strong example of how public funds are being invested to safeguard local drinking water and ensure long-term sustainability for the Montebello community.

The PFAS treatment system installed will remove contaminants, increasing the water quality.

MAXIMIZING MEASURE W: TRANSFORMING STORMWATER INTO A SUSTAINABLE WATER SUPPLY FOR SOUTHERN LA COUNTY In the face of climate whiplash—where heavy rains follow extreme droughts, WRD has released its latest technical bulletin, “Increasing Water Supply by Capturing Stormwater in Southern Los Angeles County.” This resource describes the importance of understanding site-specific basin geologic conditions when designing infiltration projects and provides several recommendations to help project proponents when developing stormwater capture projects through LA County’s Safe Clean Water Program, created by Measure W. Approved by voters in 2018, Measure W provides approximately $300 million annually through a tax on impermeable surfaces, funding stormwater projects that improve water quality and increase local water supplies. As weather extremes intensify, proactive stormwater capture will be vital for resilience, and WRD’s bulletin serves as a practical guide to ensure every drop of rain is transformed into a resource for the community.

TO LEARN MORE SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT: WWW.WRD.ORG/TECHNICAL-BULLETIN

Did you know that nearly half of the water supply in Southern Los Angeles County comes from the groundwater basins beneath our feet? The Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling and Environmental Learning (ARC) brings this story to life with a behind-the-scenes look at how WRD purifies and replenishes our local groundwater supply.

Join us for a FREE public tour of ARC and explore our state-of-the-art water purification facility, along with an interactive learning center that’s fun and informative for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to see firsthand how innovation is securing a sustainable water future for our communities.

REGISTER FOR AN UPCOMING TOUR BY SCANNING THE QR CODE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:

WRD IN THE COMMUNITY

WRD staff presented at the American Water Works Association ACE conference on PFAS funding for Water Agencies.

Senator Laura Richardson visited ARC to learn about the regional impacts of groundwater clean-up and recharge projects.

Directors Vera Robles DeWitt and Sergio Calderon attended the California Council for Adult Education (CCAE) Spring Awards, celebrating the outstanding educators, students, and champions driving adult education forward.

WRD’s Hydrogeologist and Hydro Truck participated in the Montebello-Commerce YMCA’s Touch A Truck event, giving families a hands-on look at how we test and protect our groundwater.

WRD’s Groundwater Academy welcomed elected officials and legislative staff to a tour of the San Gabriel and Rio Hondo Spreading Grounds with Los Angeles County Public Works.

Directors Langford and DeWitt welcomed Assemblyman José Luis Solache to ARC and shared the impacts of investing in groundwater remediation throughout the service area.

WRD Director John Allen and Councilwoman Kristina Duggan distributed WRD water bottles to local heroes during the Fourth of July weekend to show appreciation for the Long Beach Police Department and Long Beach Fire Department.

The Eco Gardener Workshop in Signal Hill taught participants about Edible Gardening and making their garden their own.

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF THE GROUNDWATER FESTIVAL

Thousands of attendees joined us to explore interactive booths, participate in hands-on science activities, and enjoy live entertainment, all designed to highlight the importance of protecting and replenishing our local groundwater supply.

This spring, WRD proudly hosted the 15th Annual Groundwater Festival, bringing together families, students, community partners, and water professionals for a day of learning and fun. The festival continues to be a beloved community tradition, providing a unique opportunity for residents of all ages to learn how water moves from rainfall to groundwater, and how WRD’s innovative projects keep our region resilient in the face of climate challenges.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and to our sponsors, volunteers, and staff who made this milestone year such a success. Save the Date, the 16th Annual Groundwater Festival returns in May 2026! We look forward to seeing you again for another day of education, celebration, and community.

WRD ECO GARDENER PROGRAM

READY TO DIG INTO SOMETHING NEW? Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just planting your first seeds, WRD’s Eco Gardener Program has something for everyone! In partnership with cities and nonprofits across our 43-city service area, we’re offering FREE hands-on workshops that show you how to save water and grow a beautiful, climate-friendly garden.

EACH WORKSHOP INCLUDES: • HELPFUL TIPS FROM GARDENING EXPERTS

DROUGHT-TOLERANT GARDENS

• INTERACTIVE DEMONSTRATIONS AND/OR GUIDED COMMUNITY GARDEN TOURS

EDIBLE GARDENING

GARDEN TRANSFORMATION ON A BUDGET

SMALL SPACE GARDENING

SCAN THE QR CODE TO FIND A WORKSHOP NEAR YOU AND BE PART OF THE FUN. WWW.WRD.ORG/ECO-GARDENER-PROGRAM

RATED ZONE

AALL U N U AN N N

A

BER M E V O N

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ST UDENT AR T CO N TE ST ALL NEW TOPICS! SUBMIT YOUR ARTWORK FOR OUR 2026 CALENDAR!

www.wrd.org/StudentArtContest

ALL NEW TOPICS!

Create a piece of art that speaks to any of the following topics: OUR WATER, OUR FUTURE: Protecting Water for my Community FROM RAINDROPS TO AQUIFERS: The Amazing Water Cycle THE POWER OF GROUNDWATER: Treasure Beneath our Feet

TO ENTER, YOU MUST:

Be in Kindergarten - 6th Grade Live in WRD Service Area TO WIN, YOUR ARTWORK MUST: Demonstrate the importance of groundwater and/or water conservation.

Be submitted on 8 1/2" x 11" paper in horizontal orientation by Sunday, November 2, 2025, 11:59 pm.

Include parental/guardian consent.

DEADLINE: SUN, NOV 2, 2025!

11” Wide

8.5” Height

URATED ZONE

: E N I L D! DEAD

LAND SURFACE SURFACE WATER WATER TABLE GROUNDWATER

FRACTURED ROCK

GRAVEL

HORIZONTAL ORIENTATION ONLY

SUBMIT TODAY:

WRD Water Nerd

EACH SUBMISSION INCLUDES ARTWORK AND PARENTAL APPROVAL FORM (PAF) SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 11:59 PM

Submit Online: www.wrd.org/StudentArtContest (Upload picture of your artwork but keep your original!)

Submit by Mail or Drop-Off: Attn: WRD Art Contest 4040 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712 (Include original artwork and signed PAF)

CONTEST RULES: Contestants must reside in, or attend a school within, the boundaries of WRD's 43 city service area and must be in kindergarten through 6th grade.

Don’t get disqualified! Artwork must be original (no computer-made, or copyrighted material such as superhero characters), and submitted on white 8 ½” x 11” poster board or paper in landscape (horizontal) orientation.

Crayons, markers, ink, poster paint, chalk, water color, cut paper, or fabric may be used. wrd.org/StudentArtContest For online submissions: keep your original work! Winners will need to send in their original work in order to claim their prize.

One entry per student. All entries become property of WRD upon receipt.

Winners will have their artwork printed in the calendar and receive a $75 Amazon gift card*, a certificate, and STUDENT ART other school related prizes.

CONTEST For more info contact info@wrd.org

* Prizes provided by sponsors