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What’s New With WELL June – September
Over the past couple of months, WELL staff have been busy with different programs and activities. We are excited to share what we’ve been hard at work on:
- WELL UnTapped Fellowship Summer Class of 2024: Eleven elected leaders from across California completed the first three sessions of the UnTapped Fellowship program.
- Don’t Miss Out – Applications for WELL UnTapped Winter 2025 are open!
- WELL Legislative Water Workshop Update: Two legislative workshops were hosted in the last quarter.
- Upcoming Events: Register for the Marshall Gantz Book Release, San Joaquin Water Summit hosted in Madera, and for WELL’s 13th Annual Conference!
- WELLos Spotlight: As our WELLos continue their leadership roles and enact positive change in their communities, we highlight their efforts to embody the WELL mission.
- Partner Spotlight: Learn about new collaborations, major achievements, and the positive impact our partners are making in California and in the water sector.
- California Water News: Catch some of the latest noteworthy water news from June through September.
- Support WELL’s mission by donating today! Bring equitable water policy solutions to our state by helping us educate local elected Latino leaders on California water policy.
Newsletter Commentary
Dear Friends of WELL,
This summer, California experienced record-breaking heat, with several temperature highs shattered across the state, according to the National Weather Service. These soaring temperatures put immense pressure on our water systems, dramatically increasing demand while simultaneously reducing supply. With hotter days, farmers, businesses, and families all need more water, further straining already limited resources—particularly during drought conditions.
Prolonged heat weakens vegetation, making it more flammable, while homes near vulnerable areas face greater danger, as we saw this past summer. As climate challenges intensify, safeguarding both natural habitats and communities becomes crucial. As we witness these extreme weather patterns, our Latino community leaders need to continue to be a part of conversations regarding climate change and water.
Addressing these challenges requires action, and education plays a pivotal role. That’s where the WELL UnTapped Fellowship Program comes in, empowering local Latino elected officials with the knowledge and tools to address California’s complex water issues. We invite interested officials to apply and be part of the solution. Nominations are also encouraged—please reach out to Program Manager Marissa Stanley at marissa@latinosforwater.org for more information.
¡Sí Se Puede!
Victor Griego Paul C. Hernandez
Founder & Board President Executive Director
WELL UnTapped Fellowship Summer Class of 2024 Hosts First Session in Los Angeles
On Friday, July 19, 2024, 11 Fellows embarked on their six-month journey to learn how to make an impact on California’s water policy while addressing their community’s water challenges.
Day one focused on community building and teaching Fellows how to use the WELL Method of Inquiry to extract the information needed to make complex choices about water policy and management. They then interviewed Sally Flowers, Former Councilmember, City of Artesia, UnTapped Graduate, Class of 2018, and Member of the WELL Advisory Council, to discover what they will learn from the WELL UnTapped Fellowship program.
On day two, the Fellows took a water tour of the Los Angeles area, which featured visits and interviews at the following: Pure Water Southern California, to learn about recycled water; Watts Labor Community Action Committee to learn about the civil rights movement and climate equity movement; and the LA Riverfront Park with James Cortes-Rivera, Watershed Coordinator, from the Safe Clean Water Program to learn about revitalization efforts along the river. Fellows also interviewed Reyna Mendez, Community Advocate, City of Maywood, to learn about local water challenges in the city. The day ended with a lesson on California water history and hydrology from Dr. Pablo Ortiz, Science and Curriculum Advisor, WELL.
On day three, Fellows interviewed Stephan Tucker, General Manager of the Water Replenishment District of Southern California, to learn about California water finance. This was then followed by a presentation about climate change and hydrology.
The session concluded with a moment of unity, where Fellows celebrated by singing “De Colores.”
WELL UnTapped Fellowship Summer Class of 2024 Hosts Second Session in San Diego
The second session of the UnTapped Fellowship Program was hosted on Friday, August 9 and Saturday, August 10. The Cohort traveled to San Diego for an immersive experience about cross-border collaboration, environmental challenges, and leadership training focused on the skillset of “Public Narrative.”
On the first day, the Fellows toured the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, where they learned about international efforts to address contamination along the Tijuana River. Morgan Rogers, the Area Operations Manager, led the tour and answered questions. Following the tour, the group had the opportunity to interview Dr. Gabriela Munoz Melendez, who shared insights on Tijuana’s initiatives and community experiences in tackling environmental challenges.
The second day focused on training led by Miya Cain and Jake Waxman. The Fellows were introduced to Public Narrative, which was developed by Marshall Ganz, an organizer, and lecturer at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. This unique leadership method is derived from Ganz’ theory of strategic capacity. Through practicing the Story of Self, Story of Us, and Story of Now, the Fellows refined their public speaking skills and learned to mobilize allies and build a team of committed leaders based on shared values. Trainers included President and Founder Victor Griego.
The session concluded with a moment of unity, where Fellows celebrated by singing “De Colores.”
WELL UnTapped Fellowship Summer Class of 2024 Hosts Third Session in Tehachapi.
On Friday, September 13 and Saturday, September 14, the UnTapped Fellowship Summer class of 2024 gathered in the Tehachapi region and in the San Joaquin Valley for the third session of the UnTapped Fellowship Program, where Fellows learned the intricate dynamics of water resource management, California water conveyance, and mitigation efforts for contaminants.
On day one, Fellows received a tour of the Cesar Chavez National Monument by Andres Chavez, Executive Director of the Cesar Chavez Foundation and grandson of Cesar Chavez. This was followed by an interview on Water Conveyance Systems with Aaron Fukuda, General Manager, Tulare Irrigation District.
On day two, Fellows learned about Self Help Enterprises from Melissa Bergen, their Community Development Specialist. Self-Help Enterprises works to provide technical assistance and community support to address water challenges in the San Joaquin Valley. This was followed by an interview about “Whose Water Is It: People, Environment, and Agriculture?” with Erick Orellana, Senior Policy Advocate, Community Water Center.
Fellows also worked together to play the Groundwater Game, an interactive activity that exposes participants to the challenges of managing increasingly scarce groundwater when competing needs exist. The game provided Fellows with a greater understanding of different management tools, including groundwater trading, and fostered an awareness of the multiple interests and perspectives surrounding groundwater resources.
The day ended with a tour of the Panorama Vista Preserve with Jeff Finch, Operations Manager, alongside Jonathan Yates, Founder of Bring Back the Kern, to learn more about wildlife and river restoration efforts.
Don’t Miss Out! Applications Are Open for WELL UnTapped Fellowship Winter Class of 2025!
How is California’s water history impacting your community? Who is responsible for clean and affordable water in your region? What impacts do increasing water rates have on your local water infrastructure?
WELL is currently recruiting for our next cohort of the WELL UnTapped Fellowship Program. UnTapped is a selective, six-month program for local elected leaders that helps participants make an impact on California water policy while addressing individual community water challenges.
UnTapped sessions consist of five in-person meetings at various watersheds throughout California and four online sessions. Content includes a discussion with water professionals and skill-based exercises that help participants ask better public policy questions and strengthen public speaking and relational skills.
Once UnTapped fellows graduate from the program, they are inducted into the WELL UnTapped Network (WUN), where they can continue to engage in learning and training opportunities focused on California water policy. Having such an extensive network means that together we can make our communities more resilient in the face of ongoing water challenges.
The cost to participate in the UnTapped Fellowship Program is $3,000 for city council members, county supervisors, and school board members, and $4,000 for water district directors.
WELL UnTapped Fellowship 2025 Session Dates:
- Session 1: Coachella, Friday, January 10 – Sunday, January 12, 2025
- Session 2: San Diego, Friday, February 7 – Saturday, February 8, 2025
- Session 3: Tehachapi, Friday, March 21 – Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Session 4: Richmond, Friday, April 4 – Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Session 5: Sacramento, Tuesday, May 6 – Wednesday, May 7, 2025
WELL UnTapped Legislative Workshop in Baldwin Park
On Saturday, July 13, three graduates of the WELL UnTapped Fellowship Program, Ralph Galvan, Director, Valley County Water District, Class of 2023; Cesar Garcia, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Duarte, Class of 2024; and Sergio P. Jimenez, Councilmember, City of Monrovia, Class of 2023 cohosted a WELL Legislative Workshop in the City of Baldwin Pak with California Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, 48th District.
Presentations from Dr. Anthony Fellow, Vice President, Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District; Russ Bryden, Executive Officer, Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster; and Jose Martinez, General Manager, Valley County Water District provided an overview of the unique landscape of the San Gabriel Foothills and each agency’s role in water resource management. Mayor Pro Tem Cesar Garcia, gave a presentation on the Human Rights to Water Act (HRWA). Participants divided into groups to discuss the challenges they encounter in their communities regarding access to safe and clean water.
The workshop ended with WELL’s tradition of creating a moment of unity by singing the song “De Colores.”
These workshops signify the completion of the UnTapped Fellowship for the Graduates and solidify their commitment to sharing their water education with other local elected officials to promote timely and equitable changes that bring sustainable water strategies for all Californians.
WELL UnTapped Legislative Workshop at Pasadena City College
On Saturday, September 21, Dr. Steve Gibson, Trustee at Pasadena City College and WELL UnTapped Fellowship Graduate, Class of 2024, co-hosted a WELL Legislative Water Workshop with Assemblymember Chris Holden, District 41, held at the college.
Panel presentations featured Stacie Takeguchi, Chief Assistant General Manager of Pasadena Water and Power; Cynthia Kurtz, Interim Executive Director at One Arroyo; Tom Love, General Manager of Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District; Tim Brick, Former Chairman of The Metropolitan Water Board; and Christy Zambani, Executive Director, Day One. Senator María Elena Durazo, District 16, also presented on the Human Rights to Water. Participants were divided into groups to discuss the challenges they encounter regarding access to safe and clean water in their communities.
Participants discussed local water resource challenges, water management, regional sustainability efforts, and the Human Right to Water. The workshop ended with WELL’s tradition to create a moment of unity by singing the song “De Colores.”
These workshops signify the completion of the UnTapped Fellowship for the Graduates. They also mark the continued dedication of WELL UnTapped Graduates to sharing their water education with other local elected officials to promote timely and equitable changes that bring sustainable water strategies for all Californians.
Save the Date!
Educate to Lead Program
The California Water, Wastewater, and Energy Workforce Development Program has awarded funding to WELL for a leadership training program designed to train and elevate California’s existing water, wastewater, and energy workers.
This collaborative initiative, titled “Educate to Lead) will offer a groundbreaking Leadership Training program to equip women and BIPOC mid-level and senior managers with the skills necessary for executive leadership roles in a changing workforce environment.
The Educate to Lead Program will consist of online and in-person sessions, ensuring accessibility and engagement for participants across various locales. Sessions will be led by a team of faculty members comprised of BIPOC general managers and water industry professionals from California’s largest water districts, each bringing their unique perspective. The faculty will have the assistance of experienced academics who will provide resources and tools to develop class topics and provide an overall framework for the curriculum. A professional leadership trainer will also assist faculty in structuring their presentations.
Each learning cohort will benefit from the faculty’s diverse insight and experiences, further enriching their educational journey. Upon program completion, participants will undertake a capstone project to address a leadership challenge that benefits their home agency’s specific needs.
The program is set to launch in 2025. WELL and CAWEEF hosted the first two curriculum planning meetings with the program faculty members on August 27, 2024, and Sep 30, 2024. This past faculty meeting also included a moment of celebration for Anatole Falagan who has been appointed as the new General Manager for Long Beach Utilities.
Invitation from WELL Founder and President, Victor Griego:
My long-time friend and colleague Professor Marshall Ganz has published a timely and important book: People Power and Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal. This publication promises to be well received.
WELL is co-sponsoring a special educational visit from Professor Ganz to discuss his new book! This will take place at the Dolores Mission in East Los Angeles on Sunday, October 6, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The address is 171 S. Gless St., Los Angeles, 90033. I invite you to be my guest at this important discussion.
This new book follows his previous work, Why David Sometimes Wins: Leadership, Organization, and Strategy in the California Farm Worker Movement, which won the American Political Science Association’s (APSA) Michael J. Harrington Book Award in its “New Political Science Section.”
In his latest book, Professor Ganz argues that personal stories build meaningful relationships that sustain democratic organizations, enabling them to bring about positive change in our communities. He also points out that with the current state of technology, we are more connected but less committed to one another.
The afternoon conversation with Professor Ganz and other like-minded folks promises to be time well spent as we prepare for one the most important elections American democracy has ever witnessed. Books will be available for purchase and a book signing will follow. To register and confirm your attendance, please register using the link above.
WELL Honors Ron Gastelum
At the kickoff dinner of the WELL UnTapped Fellowship Summer 2024 Program, WELL honored Ron Gastelum, Former Chief Executive Officer, The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and Former Board Member, WELL, for his significant contributions to the program. Mr. Gastelum delivered an insightful presentation on regional water issues for the UnTapped Summer 2024 Fellows.
Joining in the recognition were Miguel Luna, Director, The Metropolitan Water District, and WELL Board Member; Gene Hernandez, Director, Yorba Linda Water District, and WELL UnTapped Fellowship Graduate, Class of 2018; and Sally Flowers, Former Councilmember, City of Artesia, and UnTapped Graduate, Class of 2018. They presented Mr. Gastelum with a commemorative WELL award and a WELL pin. Together, we are grateful for Mr. Gastelum’s impactful work.
Thank you to Stephanie Nava-Angeles!
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Stephanie Nava-Angeles, who, after three years of service as WELL’s Program Manager, embarks on an exciting new journey in her graduate program at the University of California, Davis. Stephanie’s warm smile, infectious laugh, and unwavering dedication made a lasting impact on the WELL programs and everyone she worked with. Stephanie was recognized with a commemorative award for her passion and hard work at the 12th Annual Conference in San Jose this past March. Thank you, Stephanie, for being a dear friend to WELLos and to WELL’s extended family.
WELL Welcomes CivicSpark Fellow, Brandon Herrera
Brandon Herrera was born and raised in Miami, Florida. Through his time in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 552, he gained a deep appreciation for South Florida’s wetlands and estuaries. His passion led him to earn an Associate of Science in Environmental Science, a certificate in Water Quality, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Policy from the University of South Florida. During his academic career, Brandon worked as a Wetland Compliance Intern for the Southwest Florida Water Management District. After graduation, Brandon joined the Americorps CivicSpark program and will spend the next 11-month fellowship with WELL to further environmental efforts throughout California.
WELLos Spotlight:
Jesús Andrade, Former Councilmember, City of Stockon and WELL UnTapped Fellowship Graduate, Class of 2019: Mr. Andrade has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Improve Your Tomorrow’s Central Valley Region, where he will lead efforts to expand programs supporting young men of color across 19 schools in three counties. Mr. Andrade was also recently appointed to the San Joaquin County Office of Education Board of Trustees.
Dr. Monica Sanchez, Councilmember, Pico Rivera, and WELL UnTapped Fellowship Graduate, Class of 2022: Dr. Sanchez joined WELL Founder and President Victor Griego for the installation of “What’s On Tap: L.A.’s Water Story… Source to Spigot.” An art exhibit that explores the complex relationship between the Los Angeles basin and its water supply. The exhibit was curated by Edith and Jolly de Guzman.
Eddie Valero, Supervisor, Tulare County, WELL UnTapped Fellowship Graduate, Class of 2022: Supervisor Valero joined Governor Gavin Newsom in the signing of California AB 805. Through the bill, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is given the authority to step in and manage failing sewer systems to protect disadvantaged communities. Over the years, the supervisor has been a strong advocate for underserved communities especially for those who are dealing with a local failing water system.
Partners Spotlight:
The Metropolitan Water District (MET): The Metropolitan Water District will be one of the first backers of an innovative new approach to restore forests, improve watershed health, and increase the reliability of the state’s water supplies in the face of climate change and worsening wildfires. Metropolitan’s Board of Directors voted Sept. 10 to provide funding for three forest restoration programs in the northern Sierra—headwaters of the State Water Project, which on average delivers 30 percent of the water used in Southern California. Click here to read the full press release. https://www.mwdh2o.com/press-releases/metropolitan-invests-in-health-of-northern-sierra-watersheds-through-forest-resilience-bonds/
California Water Service (Cal Water): California Water Service , in partnership with DoGoodery, has launched its 11th annual water conservation education program for schools and students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Tap Into Learning offers multiple opportunities for students, classrooms, and school-based clubs in Cal Water service areas to engage in activities related to water conservation and sustainability throughout the 2024-25 academic year. Click here to read the full press release: https://www.calwatergroup.com/news-media/press-releases/detail/626/california-water-service-launches-11th-annual-school
Orange County Water District (OCWD): The Orange County Water District and East Orange County Water District (EOCWD) celebrated the dedication of a new PFAS treatment plant, marking a major milestone in ensuring safe and reliable water for the region. The dedication ceremony brought together local, state, and federal representatives to recognize the proactive actions of both agencies in addressing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) also known as ‘forever chemicals are increasingly found in water sources across the country, including the Orange County Groundwater Basin. The new treatment plant will benefit thousands of residents in the EOCWD service area, including the cities of Orange and Villa Park. Click here to read the full press release: https://www.ocwd.com/wp-content/uploads/Orange-County-Water-Agencies-Dedicate-New-PFAS-Treatment-Plant.pdf
California Water Newsr
Worried you may have missed some important recent water news? WELL has you covered! Here is a sample of noteworthy water news.
- Cal Matters: ‘I won’t let them drink the water’: The California towns where clean drinking water is out of reach
- LA Times: As removal of dams frees Klamath River, California tribes see hope of saving salmon
- California Department of Water Resources: Improving the Lives of Californians: DWR Marks 10 Years of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act and Progress Made to Protect Water Supplies
WELL Associate Members
The WELL Associate Member program, established in 2020, helps organizations gain access to Latino leaders who share similar interests, allowing members to strategize about the best ways to solve California’s water problems. The participation of our Associate Members is a key component of our mutual continuing success. We thank our Associate Members, listed below, for their support. If you would like to learn more about the Associate Member Program, please visit latinosforwater.org/associatemembers.
