Happy Groundwater Awareness Week 2025

Greetings, friends! I’m so excited to be back with you all, especially during this time of year. As we transition further into the month of March, we begin to wave goodbye to winter and start welcoming spring! Not only is spring around the corner, but so is a very important week for water – Groundwater Awareness Week. Come join me as we take a deeper dive into Groundwater Awareness Week!

What is Groundwater Awareness Week (GWAW)?
Groundwater Awareness Week usually takes place during the second week of March. Throughout this week, the National Ground Water Association and water agencies like IEUA promote the development, management, and use of groundwater. The main goal of GWAW is to educate the public about the importance of groundwater, advocate for the testing of water systems, and encourage safe water practices to preserve the overall quality of groundwater. That’s why I am here with you today!

Fun fact: A majority of the water that is used throughout the entire United States comes from the ground. Did you know that according to the U.S. Geologic Survey, one in three people who live in the U.S. obtain their drinking water from the ground?

What is groundwater?
In the simplest of terms, groundwater is water located beneath the earth’s surface in areas between soil and rock. To be exact, groundwater comes from precipitation or snowmelt that falls to the ground and flows into the soil and rock. Groundwater is held in aquifers and can be pumped through wells. This water can also be accessed naturally! Groundwater can rise through a spring or dispense water into streams or lakes. The process begins when rain or snow falls to the ground. Once that water lands on the ground, some of that water runs off the surface as surface water, while some may be used by plants and released back into the atmosphere.  Another portion of that water may also evaporate into the atmosphere, while the remaining water percolates into the ground and fills the spaces between the rock and soil.

Why is groundwater important?

Groundwater is a critical resource that supports ecosystems, agriculture, and drinking water supplies worldwide. Furthermore, groundwater is the main source of drinking water for a large portion of the global population. Not only does groundwater serve the global population, but it also contributes to agriculture through irrigation, refills surface water (such as rivers and lakes), and helps maintain ecosystems! My friends at IEUA actually maintain 46 basins throughout the region used for groundwater recharge. Groundwater is a vital resource for the environment and human life.

Another fun fact: Did you know that according to the United States Geological Survey, groundwater provides drinking water for 90% of the rural population?

Share with your friends the important role water plays in sustaining a beautiful planet, especially groundwater. Also, check out my water friends at @ieuawater on social media as they will be posting more cool facts about GWAW—you won’t want to miss it.

That’s all for me, friends!

Stay water-ful,
Wally

Read Across America Week 2025: Water in Mind

Hello, water-wise friends! Did you know this week is Read Across America Week? To celebrate this week with water in mind, I invite you to explore the shelves of your local library for thought-provoking reads about our valuable water resources. We’ve compiled a short list of suggestions inspired by Southern California Water Coalition (SCWC). Whether you’re interested in history, the environment, or the social challenges surrounding water, these selections offer some insight into the vital role that water plays in shaping our world and our communities.

There are many ways to be a water steward and one of them can start at home, at a local library, or bookstore.

1.      Where I Was From by Joan Didion

In this reflective memoir, author Joan Didion takes us on a journey through her California roots to explore the region’s history, politics, and natural beauty. Through insightful essays, she shares her personal take on the complexities of the American West and what "home" means in an ever-changing world. It’s acclaimed to be a must-read for those interested in the cultural and environmental fabric of California.

Genres: Non-fiction, History, Memoir, Essays, 21st Century America

Ideal Audience: Adults

Published 2003, 226 pages

 

2.      A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

This heart-wrenching story follows two children with unique circumstances. Author Linda Sue Park blends space and time to deliver a story of two characters both struggling with the scarcity of water. A quick but powerful read that highlights resilience, survival, and the importance of clean water. It can be an enjoyable read for young adults and anyone interested in historical fiction with real-world impact.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Young Adult, War

Ideal Audience: Young Adults (12-18)

Published 2010, 128 pages

 

3.      The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California by Mark Arax

Mark Arax dives deep into California’s long-running battle over water. From the Gold Rush to modern-day droughts, this book blends history, personal narrative, and investigative journalism to explore how water shaped the State’s culture and economy. It may be a compelling read for those interested in the environment, climate change, and California’s history.

Genres: Non-fiction, History, Memoir, Climate Change

Ideal Audience: Adults

Published 2019, 576 pages

4.      Water is for Fighting Over: and Other Myths about Water in the West by John Fleck

John Fleck’s exploration of the American West’s water issues can be seen as both informative and thought-provoking. He uncovers the myths around water use and rights in the region by tackling tough questions about conservation and policy. This book is recommended for readers interested in the complexities of water rights and the future of our essential resource.

Genres: Non-fiction, History, Conservation

Ideal Audience: Adults

Published 2016, 264 pages

We hope you celebrate Read Across America week with water top of mind. Interested in more? Check out the full book list on SCWC’s reading list blog.

Bonus tip: Consider reading a book on your own leading up to Earth Day or start a book club to celebrate Earth Month (April)!

Speaking of Earth Month, I invite you to experience environmental stewardship and the importance of water resources at IEUA’s Earth Day Celebration on Thursday, April 17 from 4-7 PM. Join us for interactive exhibits, food vendors, and free giveaways! Let’s celebrate Earth Day together and see how small actions can lead to big environmental benefits.

Catch you later,

Wally

Wally's Water Wisdom - Happy Engineers Week 2025

Hey there, water explorers! Have you ever wondered where your water comes from or where it goes after you use it? Behind the scenes, water engineers work hard to keep it clean, safe, and available to everyone!

This Engineers Week (February 16-22, 2025), we’re celebrating the amazing work of water engineers, especially those at the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA), who treat, recycle, and protect our water every day. Water engineers help keep our communities healthy, our environment clean, and ensure we have water for the future!

Let’s dive into what they do and how YOU can help protect this vital resource!

What Do Water Engineers Do?

The field of Engineering within the water industry varies depending on the location and specific role the engineers are hired onto. Generally, water engineers’ work helps manage and protect our water in many ways, including:

💧 Cleaning and Treating Water – They can design systems to remove pollutants from water, so our water ways are clean! (IEUA) (EPA)

🌱 Recycling Water – Instead of letting water go to waste, engineers play a role in ensuring clean water standards are met. Recycled water is used for parks, farms, and even groundwater replenishment! (Learn more about recycled water!)

🌧 Managing Rainwater – They can develop ways to capture and clean rainwater (often referred to as stormwater) to prevent flooding or polluted runoff into rivers and other bodies of water. (ASCE)

🔬 Inventing Water-Saving Technology – Engineers can use smart sensors, AI, and renewable energy to reduce water waste and create new sources of drinking water! (Water Research Foundation)

Meet a Real-Life Water Engineer!

At IEUA, our Engineers work on projects that treat and recycle water, protect local water supplies, and help our communities use water wisely.

This year, we’re featuring David, an Assistant Engineer, who helps keep our water resources safe and sustainable.

What inspired you to pursue a career in water engineering?

My initial point of inspiration for water engineering came when I took a field trip to a local wastewater treatment plant as part of my high school’s AP Environmental Science class. I was hooked when we toured the different treatment processes that took wastewater and turned it into recycled water.

How do you see the role of water engineering evolving with advancements in technology?

As technologies advance, it will allow for more efficient and automated engineering solutions to wastewater. Treatment technologies can come to the point where it will allow for wider applications of recycled water. 

What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing a career in water engineering?

I highly encourage students to visit a public water agency and speak with the professionals that work there to get firsthand insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of an engineer. Don’t be afraid to send a message to water engineers on LinkedIn, too!

Why is water stewardship critical for future generations?

Instilling water stewardship in our youth allows them to have a sense of responsibility in preserving the precious resource that is water. Water demand continues to increase, especially in IEUA’s service area. Having a sense of responsibility for water as they grow older and passing this mindset onto the next generation will be crucial to how we approach water resource management in the future.

Engineers like David ensure we have clean, safe water now and for future generations!

How Can YOU Be a Water Steward?

Water is a precious resource, and even small actions can make a big difference! Try these easy ways to save water at home:

🌿 Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth.

🚿 Take shorter showers to save gallons of water!

🌊 Share water-saving tips with your family and friends!

Every drop counts, and YOU can help make sure we have water for the future!

Try These Fun Water Experiments at Home!

🔬 DIY Water Filtration Experiment – Learn how Engineers filter water using simple household materials!

-       Follow this link for full instructions and details on this DIY Water Filtration Experiment!

💧 Water Footprint Challenge – Find out how much water your family uses and discover ways to conserve more!

-       Follow this link to take the Water Footprint Challenge!

You can also find more fun at-home activities on IEUA’s website! Check them out here!

Want to Learn More?

If you love water and want to explore more, join us on Community Day during our Earth Day Celebration on Thursday, April 17 from 4PM – 7 PM at the Chino Creek Wetlands and Educational Park!

This free event includes:

🌿 Tours of the park

💡 Environmental exhibits

🎨 Educational activities

🐍 Animal encounters

🎁 Giveaways and more!

Don’t miss this fun-filled day of learning, exploring, and celebrating our planet!

Engineers help protect our future, and maybe one day, YOU could become one too! Keep learning, keep exploring, and most importantly—keep saving water.

Your Friend,

Wally 

Wally's Water Wisdom - Fall Into Water-wise Season

Hello friends! As the new school year continues and the weather slowly begins to change, we bid farewell to the summer season and welcome the new fall season! Come with me as we explore why fall is a great season for both nature and our water-wise friends. 

What marks the transition to fall?

Fall is usually the transition from hot summer days to welcoming cooler temperatures. During this transition, days may feel shorter, the leaves begin to change color, and the temperature begins to decrease. Fun fact: The Earth's axial tilt, along with its movement around the sun, is responsible for the change in seasons.

Fall weather typically starts off with warmer days and cooler nights during the month of September. During October, you may notice both cooler days and nights, as well as see leaves begin to change color. (More on that in a ‘wetlands talk’ social media video, so be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook! 😉) Once we reach November, we typically experience colder weather alongside possible early frost and rainfall in many parts of the world.

What happens in nature during the fall?

As days become shorter and colder, many plants change from their reproductive state to their dormant state. During this time, trees and shrubs stop producing chlorophyll and instead send a form of sugar to their roots which helps them prepare for winter. As temperature and daylight decrease, other pigments in the leaves are exposed, resulting in a change of color. Look out for this change in various other plants and flowers throughout the season!

Wally’s two favorite water-wise fall tips: 

Although water may not be used as frequently as it is during the summer, being water-wise is still just as important during the autumnal season! Let’s not forget that I am a water droplet at the end of the day. 😉 

• Monitor water usage when it comes to plant care. Instead of weekly watering, the cooler weather may allow you to transition to bi-weekly watering. You may also choose to pay close attention to hand water only dry areas instead of your entire yard!
• Tidy up surfaces with a broom instead of a hose. Throughout the season, leaves tend to fall off trees due to the reduction of auxin they receive. As a result, they may form large piles on your sidewalk or driveway throughout this time of year. While it may seem easy to clear your landscape with a hose, we recommend you sweep, not spray!

Keep in mind that there are many other ways to preserve water this fall, but it’s important to remember to always monitor your water habits year-round. 

Happy fall, friends! I be-leaf you can make a difference by being water-wise.

Wally’s Water Wisdom - Participate in World Water Week 2024

Its August, which means it is time to make the most out of the last bit of summer! For most people, that means swimming in your backyard or a day by the beach; however, for my friends at IEUA, they think about August a little differently. That’s because in August, IEUA is celebrating the end of summer and World Water Week! World Water Week is a week dedicated to water conservation and responsible water usage worldwide, both today and for future generations. So, while you may be spending the 

summer soaking up the sun or playing in the water, be sure to keep acting as those great environmental stewards that I know you are!

I even created a fun way to help you keep ‘water’ on your mind. Here are a few tips that can help you save water this month and in the future:

Water your yard in the morning. By watering your yard during the cooler hours of the day, the water is more likely to be absorbed fully into the soil. Cooler temperatures can help reduce the amount of water needed to fully sustain your yard. Since the temperature usually rises throughout the day, especially in California, precious water could be lost to evaporation! This tip could also prevent overwatering your yard.

Always be sure to turn off the faucet when it’s not in use. It can be very tempting to leave the faucet on out of convenience while brushing your teeth or washing your hands. However, it is important to save as much water as possible and turn off the faucet while it is not actively in use, whether that be while you are scrubbing your teeth or scrubbing the dishes.

Take shorter showers to reduce the amount of water being used every single day. Did you know that the average showerhead releases approximately 2.5 gallons of water every minute? That’s right! This equates to about 25 gallons of water in just 10 minutes! Limit showers to five minutes or fewer for an easy way to cut down on your daily usage.

Engage with your local water agencies to learn how you can help protect our most precious resource – water. If you are within IEUA’s service area, opportunities to engage with us include participating in our Water is Life Student Art Poster Contest (Stay tuned!), signing up for a field trip through our Water Discovery Program, or visiting us at various local community events.

Hint hint: IEUA will host an outreach table and fun activities at the Waterwise Pumpkin Festival on Saturday, October 5. Follow us on social media to learn more.

Reduce, reuse, recycle – Wally always reminds his pal Owlie to practice the three R’s to help prevent pollution into our waterways. Reduce – Try to reduce your production of trash and energy. For example, turn off the lights in any room that’s not currently in use. Reuse – One easy way to reuse an item is to ditch the plastic water bottle and consider using a reusable water bottle instead! Recycle - Check out the labeling of an item before discarding it into the trash. It may be recyclable or compostable!

I hope you take these techniques with you as you finish off the summer continuing to be water conscious!

Your friend,

Wally

 

  

Wally’s Water Wisdom – Happy Water Quality Month 2024

Hi friends! Wally here. I cannot believe it has been nearly two years since we last spoke about Water Quality Month. The time really does fly, doesn’t it? As we know, August is Water Quality Month, so what better time than now to reflect on the importance of a safe, clean water supply in our lives and for the overall health of our ecosystems. At IEUA, the staff is passionate about our water supply, including water-use efficiency and improving the quality of our invaluable water resources. This month, we are highlighting the crucial role water quality testing plays in maintaining healthy habitats for wildlife, supporting agriculture, and ensuring safe water for our communities.

Water is a finite resource, and its quality can be influenced by daily activities. From fats, oils, and greases (FOG) down a kitchen drain to the use of pesticides in your garden, everything you do can impact the water cycle!

Speaking about FOG, did you know that my scientist friends at IEUA’s award-winning Water Quality Laboratory analyze FOG as well? If you have not seen the video on social media yet, you should check it out by clicking on the image below.

Science is so a-m-a-z-i-n-g!

 

Actually, all of my friends at IEUA work to mitigate water quality effects through educational programs and hands-on conservation efforts. The Agency’s facilities, including the Chino Creek Wetlands and Educational Park, serve as a real-life testing ground! How cool is that? At our Park, visitors can learn about the natural process of water filtration, the importance of wetlands in water purification, and the steps we can all take to protect this precious limited resource.

Maintaining clean waterways is an achievable goal if everyone can collectively implement small changes to their daily lives. When you work together, seemingly small things lead to big transformations over time. Intentional choices such as not littering, picking up pet waste, using fertilizers and pesticides in recommended amounts, and disposing of FOG in the trash instead of down the drain can make a huge difference!

During Water Quality Month, I encourage everyone to visit my pal Owlie at the Chino Creek Wetlands and Educational Park to learn more about how you can contribute to water conservation and quality. Join in on IEUA’s mission to protect the region’s water supply and, by extension, our planet. 😊 Together, we can ensure that future generations have access to the clean, safe water they deserve!

That is all I have for today, friends. I will see you all soon with my next drop of water wisdom!

 

Your Friend,

Wally

Wally’s Water Wisdom – Your Guide to the Earth Day Celebration

Hi friends! While I’m sure many of you have had the opportunity to attend one of our Earth Day Celebrations over the last 15 years, there are a few who haven’t. So, I’m here today to make sure those of you who haven’t attended 1. Get excited about attending this year and 2. Know exactly what to do to make the most of your time at the event.

First, the event will take place on Thursday, April 18 from 4 pm – 7 pm at the Chino Creek Wetlands and Educational Park. There are two lots available for parking with signage and volunteers to help direct you to each. One lot is located on El Prado Road at the Chino Creek Wetlands’ main entrance, and another – with a few EV charging spaces – is located on Kimball Avenue (closest to IEUA’s headquarters). Pro tip: Parking space is limited, so I highly recommend carpooling if you can! Get into that Earth Day spirit. 😉

Once you’ve parked, make your way to one of the check-in booths located near each parking lot for exhibitor and giveaway information (Trust me, don’t skip the check-in!). Checking in is quick and easy by scanning a QR code and completing three simple questions. After that, you’re free to explore!

A few exhibitors I recommend stopping by:

• Animal encounters (because why not check “hold an iguana” off your bucket list?)
• Wastewater slime station (because slime!)
• City of Chino (meet our co-hosts!)

Once you’ve made your way through the Park, filled up on snow cones and tacos, taken in the beautiful scenery, and most importantly, spotted our hidden surprises, head back to check-in to claim your prize! I hope this can help make your first (or second, or third, or 15^th) Earth Day with us a memorable experience.

That’s all I have for today, friends. I will see you all soon with my next drop of water wisdom.

Your friend,

Wally