With water issues continuing to dominate the news, the Water Authority is accepting applications for a unique program that allows future and emerging civic leaders to learn more about efforts to ensure a safe and reliable water supply for the San Diego region.

Participants in the spring 2015 session of the Citizens Water Academy will get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Water Authority helps to protect the region's economy and quality of life through its plans, operations and programs, along with information about regional drought response efforts. The academy also will include a tour of world-class water facilities such as the Carlsbad Desalination Project, and participants will have the opportunity to interact with Water Authority executives.

 

   

The deadline to apply for the next session of the Citizens Water Academy is 5 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 18. The spring series class dates are as follows:

• March 5, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• March 11, 5 to 8:30 p.m. 
• March 21, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (includes tour)

 

Applicants must commit to attend all sessions. The selection process is competitive and acceptance is not guaranteed.

 

To apply or to nominate someone for the academy, go to www.sdcwa.org/citizens-water-academy.   

 

Note: The Water Authority keeps an interest list for future academies. People who are interested but cannot attend in March should submit an application and ask to be notified when additional sessions are announced.  

In normal years, Sierra Nevada snowpack supplies about 30 percent of California's water needs as it melts in the spring and early summer. The greater the snowpack water content, the greater the likelihood California's reservoirs will receive ample runoff to meet the state's water demand in the summer and fall. Today's snow survey indicated it is becoming less likely the state will receive enough rain and snow this winter to break the current drought.

The Water Authority and its member agencies offer WaterSmart Landscape Makeover Series classes to provide homeowners with a comprehensive overview and basic hands-on skills necessary to turn a traditional lawn into a beautiful climate-appropriate landscape.

The free series includes four classes. Upon completion, participants have an actionable landscape makeover plan. Class topics include performing a landscape analysis, removing turf, selecting WaterSmart plants, and learning irrigation components and best practices.

 

Classes are offered countywide through May. Participants must commit to attend all four classes and a pre-class assessment at their home.

 

Registration is still open for the class series beginning Feb. 21 at Southwestern College. Click here to apply. For the full schedule, click here.