#United States #Los Angeles #Clean Water #Education Foundation #Whittier

Launch of Clean Water Works Education Foundation

On January 23, 2025, the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts (LACSD) introduced the Clean Water Works Education Foundation (CWWEF), a new nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing public awareness about water, sanitation, and environmental issues. By implementing hands-on programs and activities across Los Angeles County, CWWEF aims to engage students and residents actively, ensuring they understand the critical nature of water sustainability.

Cathy Warner, chair of both CWWEF and the LACSD boards of directors, emphasized the foundation's potential to broaden the reach of existing educational programs. The foundation's primary mission is to offer lasting learning experiences that raise awareness of water-related issues while encouraging sustainable practices. This initiative will also create avenues for funding and grants, bolstering these educational endeavors.

Educational Programs Offered by CWWEF

CWWEF offers a variety of educational initiatives designed to cater to different age groups and learning environments:

• - Sewer Science Program: This award-winning initiative introduces high school students to the science of water treatment. Participants simulate wastewater treatment processes, learning how to analyze water quality using actual real-world techniques. In collaboration with the Youth Science Center, it reaches around 5,000 students at 50 schools each year.

• - School Bus Tours Program: Students from grades 5 to 12 get a unique behind-the-scenes look at the sanitation process through these guided tours. Sponsored transportation allows students to visit LACSD facilities and witness firsthand the intricacies of waste management.

• - Think Earth Program: This initiative targets pre-K through 8th-grade students, introducing them to environmental stewardship through engaging lessons and interactive materials such as posters and videos. It also encourages families to participate in surveys focusing on reducing waste and conserving resources.

• - Think Watershed Program: Designed for students in grades 4-6, this program emphasizes the importance of the local watershed in maintaining a healthy marine environment. It features hands-on activities along with a memorable lab boat trip to teach students the impact human actions have on water quality and natural habitats.

• - Grades of Green Campaign: Students are empowered to take part in water and waste competitions where they develop their unique environmental initiatives over a period of four months.

Special Events and Community Engagement

In addition to its educational programs, CWWEF will host various events aimed at promoting environmental awareness. One of the key events is the annual Earth Day Celebration in Whittier, offering families interactive exhibits and tours that highlight sustainable living practices.

Future initiatives will also include new events in the City of Carson and the Antelope Valley, furthering the foundation's mission to engage the community in environmental education.

Robert Ferrante, chief engineer and general manager for LACSD, expressed that this foundation represents a significant step towards enhancing environmental education in the community. He articulated that empowering future generations through knowledge about sustainability is essential for fostering a thriving and resilient community.

For more information about the Clean Water Works Education Foundation and the programs it offers, visit www.cwwef.org.

About LACSD

The Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts serve over 5.6 million people in Los Angeles County through a network of 24 independent special districts. LACSD is committed to protecting public health and the environment, focusing on innovative and cost-effective solutions for wastewater and solid waste management, ultimately converting waste into valuable resources such as recycled water and energy.