Marathon Petroleum Enhances Groundwater Education with WRD Funding Initiative

Strengthening Groundwater Education: A Partnership with Marathon Petroleum

In an era where environmental sustainability and education are more essential than ever, the Water Replenishment District (WRD) has taken significant steps to enhance groundwater education through a new collaboration with Marathon Petroleum Corporation's Los Angeles Refinery. This partnership has been kicked off with a generous donation of $15,000, aimed at funding immersive field trips for students focusing on groundwater and recycled water education.

Educational Opportunities at the Albert Robles Center

The Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling and Environmental Learning (ARC) in Pico Rivera, California, will serve as the main hub for this educational initiative. The funding provided by Marathon Petroleum will allow schools in the operational communities of the Los Angeles Refinery—Carson, Wilmington, San Pedro, South Gate, and West Long Beach—to partake in enriching field trips. The trips are designed to foster hands-on learning experiences, allowing students, educators, and parents to engage meaningfully with the region's water systems.

ARC features a state-of-the-art water purification facility, a museum-quality learning center, and a climate-friendly demonstration garden, all essential components to foster understanding of the vital role groundwater plays in our lives. The field trip program at ARC aims to build upon children's knowledge of the water cycle and help them appreciate the importance of water recycling and conservation in securing long-term water reliability.

A Commitment to Future Generations

The WRD Board President, Sergio Calderon, expressed gratitude for Marathon's generous grant, emphasizing the importance of expanding educational outreach to communities that prioritize sustainability. By supporting such programs, children are equipped not only with knowledge about groundwater management but are also encouraged to take on roles as future leaders in environmental stewardship.

The commitment of Marathon Petroleum to education goes hand-in-hand with their Community Investment Program. MPC is dedicated to fostering partnerships that contribute positively to workforce development, sustainability, and the creation of thriving communities. This initiative underlines their mission by introducing attendees to potential career paths in the water industry, focusing on conservation and economic mobility.

Erlend Myhre, Vice President of Refining at MPC's Los Angeles Refinery, mentioned in a statement that the company is proud to support WRD in providing children with firsthand experiences in water sustainability, while simultaneously fostering their connection to local communities.

Long-term Impact on Water Sustainability

The partnership lays the groundwork for a robust future where students are not only informed about but also engaged in significant environmental issues. The hope is that by fostering a greater understanding of groundwater management and sustainability, these young individuals will be empowered to take on meaningful roles in the environmental sector.

The Water Replenishment District of Southern California serves as a key groundwater management agency, responsible for protecting and preserving the quality of groundwater for one of the state's most utilized urban basins. With over ten percent of California's population residing within the service area, initiatives aimed at educating the future generation about sustainable practices are crucial.

In conclusion, WRD's partnership with Marathon Petroleum is a significant step towards ensuring that youth in Southern California are well-versed in the importance of water conservation and management. Through this initiative, students not only learn about sustainability, but they also gain insights into potential career opportunities in the water industry, thereby intertwining education with community enrichment and environmental responsibility.