A pair of Eastern Municipal Water District employees were honored on Monday, March 18, as being industry leaders at the WateReuse Association’s California Section annual awards.
Eastern Municipal Water District General Manager Paul Jones, left, and Principal Engineering Technician John Wuerth, were honored at the WateReuse Association California Section’s annual awards.
John Wuerth, who works as a Principal Engineering Technician in EMWD”s Engineering Department, was honored by the Association as its Recycled Water Staff Person of the Year.
Wuerth has worked for EMWD since 1996 and has been instrumental in its recycled water program since 2005.
“The role that recycled water plays in our water supply portfolio is huge,” Wuerth said. “We have imported water, groundwater and recycled water. That’s it. We have an incredible team and incredible support from management and the Board. That’s what helps put EMWD so far ahead of the rest of our industry in advancing and promoting recycled water.”
General Manager Paul D. Jones II received the Association’s President’s Award for his stewardship in helping lead EMWD’s recycled water program. Jones has served as EMWD’s General Manager since 2011.
“Our Board has given us the direction and tools to become an industry model with recycled water and each member of our organization has helped us achieve that goal,” Jones said. “John is a prime example of that. The passion and knowledge that he brings to our recycled water program is both undeniable and inspiring to our entire organization.”
EMWD has previously earned recognition from the WateReuse Association for its industry-leading efforts with recycled water. In 2012, EMWD was honored with the national Project of the Year Award and in 2010 the District was selected as the California Agency of the Year.
EMWD has also been honored for its community outreach programs and two local customers were honored as the WateReuse California Customers of the Year, in 2011 and 2012.
EMWD currently uses over 90 percent of its recycled water supply for beneficial use and is one of the largest recycled water suppliers in California. The District is rapidly approaching its goal of 100 percent reuse.
Recycled water is used for irrigation of golf courses, parks, agriculture and public areas.
“These awards are a testament to the tireless work of our entire District,” EMWD Board President Philip Paule said. “We take great pride in being recognized as an industry leader for our recycled water efforts. The leadership and talents that both Paul and John bring to our organization are prime examples of what makes EMWD so well-respected.
*Contributed by Eastern Municipal Water District
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