Western Municipal Water District (Western Water) proudly announces that its General Manager, Craig Miller, has received the prestigious Advocacy Achievement award from the WateReuse Association. The award emphasizes Western Water's commitment to delivering exceptional service, resource stewardship and ability to meet the needs of the region. Through effective policy direction from the Board of Directors, Western Water has implemented innovative water reuse and recycling strategies that foster collaboration and deliver significant benefits at both state and regional levels.

“This accolade from the WateReuse Association mirrors our dedication to ensuring that every customer benefits from the most reliable, sustainable, and efficient water services available, said Board President Mike Gardner. “Thanks to visionary strategic priorities set by Western Water’s Board of Directors and Craig’s steadfast leadership, Western Water is working toward securing not just a resilient water future for southwest Riverside County, but for the entire state of California, an essential legacy that benefits generations to come.”

LEADING THE WAY IN WATER REUSE AND RECYCLING

The award highlights Western Water’s leadership in implementing impactful projects and initiatives that have positively transformed water management at both regional and statewide levels, including many of Western Water’s recent successful initiatives:

• Launching a groundwater storage program – a major step to enhance water supply for its customers.
• Rapidly reducing its reliance on imported water by 40%, a commendable feat achieved in less than a decade.
• Partnering with 5 regional agencies to implement the Santa Ana River Conservation and Conjunctive Use Program (SARRCUP), a collaborative regional groundwater banking initiative that will develop infrastructure critical to distributing banked water across the region. This program builds a more resilient and efficient regional water supply system.
• Serving as a regional leader for broader initiatives, such as the CA Water for All and Senate Bill 366 (Caballero) sponsored by the California Municipal Utilities Association. This statewide initiative emphasizes the importance of a collaborative, comprehensive approach to tackling California's water challenges.

WATEREUSE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

The WateReuse Awards for Excellence is a national recognition to honor those who exhibit exemplary leadership in water reuse, demonstrating innovative solutions to water management challenges, advancing supportive policies, and inspiring the community through their commitment and creativity. Craig Miller's recognition reflects his visionary leadership and the impactful work carried out under his direction at Western Water. His initiatives have addressed critical water management issues and set a benchmark for sustainable practices in the sector.