Congressman Ken Calvert recognized by Eastern Municipal WD as 2016 Water Champion

Congressman Ken Calvert (R- 42^nd Congressional District-Corona) was recently presented with Eastern Municipal Water District’s (EMWD) 2016 Water champion award during a ceremony at his district office in Corona. He was recognized for his longstanding efforts in support of the region’s water supplies.

The EMWD Water Champion Award is presented annually to an individual who shows exemplary service in helping EMWD achieve its mission of providing clean, reliable water and wastewater management services for residents of western Riverside County.

“We are incredibly appreciative of the work that Congressman Calvert has put forth to ensure our region has a more sustainable water supply future,” EMWD Director Randy Record said. “Congressman Calvert has been a respected and active voice for our customers and his work has resulted not only in valuable federal funding, but in legislative action that has tangible benefits to our region.”

Calvert introduced the House version of the Pechanga Settlement Act last year to ensure the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians had access to groundwater in the region. The Pechanga Settlement Act provides the tribe with more than $30 million in federal funding to pay for water storage projects and provides access to both imported water through The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and recycled water.  The Act was ultimately added to the federal drought legislative package and signed into law in late 2016.

Congressman Calvert has also worked to aid EMWD in securing federal funding for critical water infrastructure investments. This includes the district’s proposed Perris II Desalter and regional recycled water facilities, both of which are helping to drought-proof EMWD’s service area.

“Meeting California’s water challenges is a complex puzzle that requires dedication and hard work from many people and organizations,” Calvert said. “I’m proud of the contributions I have made over the years to advance water solutions. Eastern Municipal Water District has long been an invaluable partner in my efforts. I’m grateful for their recognition and I look forward to our continued work together to provide Californians with an affordable and reliable water supply.”

Previous recipients of EMWD’s Water Champion Award include former State Senator Bill Emmerson, United States Bureau of Reclamation area manager Bill Steele and California Gov. Jerry Brown.

Calvert has served as a congressman since 1993. He has been an instrumental figure in helping agencies in western Riverside County maintain an active voice in Washington, D.C., for the benefit of their customers. Inn representing the 42^nd Congressional District he serves Corona, Murrieta, Menifee and several unincorporated communities within EMWD’s service area.