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OMWD’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility Named California’s “Plant of the Year”

OMWD’s 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility (4S WRF) has been named “Plant of the Year” by the California Water Environment Association.

The 4S WRF received the same designation at the local level earlier this year from CWEA’s San Diego Section.

Over the past three years, the 4S Ranch Water Reclamation Facility it has processed and produced over 1.1 billion gallons of high-quality recycled water, which is used for irrigation purposes at schools, parks, golf courses, streetscapes, and homeowner association common areas in the southeastern portion of OMWD’s service area.

“This is a tremendous honor for our district, and a testament to the importance of recycled water,” said Ed Sprague, President of OMWD’s Board of Directors. “The 4S WRF is the gem of our district and symbolizes our ongoing dedication toward finding new and diversified sources of water.”

Recycled water is a critical tool in OMWD’s effort to diversify water supply and reduce the impacts of drought. The State Water Resources Control Board is preparing to weigh in early May emergency measures that could require several San Diego County water agencies, including OMWD, to reduce potable water use by up to 36 percent relative to 2013 consumption. The 4S WRF’s role in supporting OMWD’s recycled water infrastructure is crucial during this time of drought emergency, and will continue to be a central resource in significantly reducing potable water consumption throughout OMWD’s service area.

The 4S WRF was evaluated among CWEA’s 16 other regional honorees throughout California. When evaluating facilities, CWEA examines criteria such as permit compliance, process controls, maintenance strategies and efficiency, training and safety, and facility accomplishments

Founded in 1927, the California Water Environment Association is a not-for-profit association of 9,000-plus professionals in the wastewater industry. The association trains and certifies wastewater professionals, disseminates technical information, and promotes sound policies to benefit society through protection and enhancement of our water environment.

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