#USA #California #Marathon Petroleum #environmental education #Water Replenishment District

Enhancing Groundwater Education: A Collaborative Effort by WRD and Marathon Petroleum

The Water Replenishment District (WRD) of Southern California has taken a significant step towards enriching groundwater education by partnering with Marathon Petroleum Corporation's Los Angeles Refinery (MPC). In February 2026, MPC announced a generous grant of $15,000 earmarked for educational initiatives that focus on groundwater and recycled water. This funding will pave the way for immersive student field trips to the Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling and Environmental Learning (ARC) located in Pico Rivera, California.

Empowering Local Communities through Education

Located within the operational communities of MPC, such as Carson, Wilmington, San Pedro, South Gate, and West Long Beach, the schools eligible for this grant will now have the opportunity to engage students through hands-on learning experiences. At ARC, students, educators, and parents will delve into the region's groundwater system and explore how recycled water and conservation practices can ensure sustainable water resources for the future.

The facility itself is quite remarkable. Beyond being a center for advanced water purification, it boasts a museum-quality learning center and a demonstration garden that showcases climate-friendly practices. During the field trips, participants can expect a comprehensive view of the water cycle and its importance, gaining insights into groundwater resources, water recycling methods, and conservation strategies that are vital for the long-term reliability of water supplies.

A Vision for the Future of Water Sustainability

In recent years, the importance of sustainable water practices has become increasingly evident, particularly in urban settings where water scarcity is a growing concern. This partnership aims to not only educate students but also inspire them to consider careers within the water industry. By cultivating interest at a young age, WRD and MPC are working to create a pool of future professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle pressing environmental issues.

The Community Investment Program by Marathon Petroleum is centered on developing partnerships that foster workforce development and promote sustainable practices in local communities. This initiative highlights MPC's dedication to enhancing educational opportunities and advancing economic mobility among the younger population.

Acknowledgements and Community Impact

Sergio Calderon, WRD Board President, expressed deep gratitude towards Marathon Petroleum for their support, stating, “We are tremendously thankful for the generous grant from Marathon. It allows us to reach out to communities that may not have easy access to such educational resources.” He emphasized that the funding plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainability, resilience in groundwater management, and community engagement.

Erlend Myhre, Vice President of Refining at MPC’s Los Angeles Refinery, echoed this sentiment, explaining that the initiative provides students with a tangible understanding of water sustainability while igniting their aspirations for future careers in related fields. This collaboration is positioned to instill a sense of stewardship toward environmental conservancy among the youth.

California's Groundwater Management Agency

WRD serves as the regional agency responsible for managing the quantity and quality of groundwater within Southern California. Its jurisdiction covers some of the most heavily populated urban areas in California, where over ten percent of the state's population resides. With a mission dedicated to protecting and preserving groundwater resources, WRD emphasizes the importance of public education as a means of enhancing community involvement in environmental stewardship.

The lasting impact of this partnership goes beyond just knowledge; it aims to foster a generation of environmentally-conscious leaders who are prepared to advocate for sustainable practices. WRD and Marathon Petroleum's collaborative efforts are crucial in building a resilient community capable of addressing current and future environmental challenges.

In conclusion, the future of groundwater education appears promising with the active involvement of organizations like WRD and Marathon Petroleum. By nurturing young minds with hands-on experiences and career opportunities, this partnership is set to create a legacy of commitment to water sustainability and environmental education in California.