Marathon Petroleum Corporation Strengthens Groundwater Education Initiative with WRD Grant

Enhancing Groundwater Education through Community Partnerships

The Water Replenishment District (WRD) of Southern California has recently announced a significant partnership with Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC) aimed at enhancing groundwater education. This collaboration is bolstered by a generous grant of $15,000 provided by MPC, which will support student excursions aimed at raising awareness about groundwater and recycled water.

The funding will enable students from schools within the operational areas of MPC, specifically in cities such as Carson, Wilmington, San Pedro, South Gate, and West Long Beach, to take part in educational field trips to the Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling and Environmental Learning (ARC) located in Pico Rivera, California. Here, they will engage in immersive learning experiences designed to deepen their understanding of the regional groundwater system and the vital roles that recycled water and conservation practices play in ensuring long-term water reliability.

The ARC is equipped with advanced water purification facilities, a museum-quality learning center, and a climate-friendly demonstration garden. Through WRD's ARC Excursion Program led by experienced staff, students, educators, and parents will embark on hands-on learning adventures. By exploring the intricacies of groundwater resources, recycling methods, and conservation strategies, participants are presented with unique insights into the water cycle while also discovering potential career pathways within the water industry.

MPC's Community Investment Program emphasizes partnerships that foster workforce development, sustainability, and thriving communities. This strategic initiative will provide students in WRD's service areas and alongside MPC's operational regions the opportunity to explore fulfilling careers in the water sector, concentrating on conservation and economic mobility.

Sergio Calderón, the President of the WRD Board, expressed gratitude towards Marathon Petroleum for their generous contribution, stating, "This funding not only supports our mission of promoting sustainability and resilience in groundwater management but also encourages community engagement by empowering youth to become future leaders in environmental stewardship."

Erlend Myhre, the Vice President of Refining at MPC, also highlighted the significance of the excursions, noting, "We take pride in supporting WRD’s excursions, offering students a tangible view of water sustainability issues while inspiring them to consider related career paths, all while connecting them to our shared communities."

This initiative underscores the mutual commitment of both WRD and MPC to cultivate educational and professional opportunities focused on water sustainability, ensuring students are well-equipped with the knowledge and inspiration needed to tackle environmental issues. By empowering youth and enhancing their involvement in environmental management, this partnership is poised to create a lasting and positive impact.

The Water Replenishment District of Southern California serves as the managing agency for groundwater resources in the region, protecting both the quantity and quality of groundwater supplies for two of California’s most utilized urban basins. Serving over ten percent of California's population across 43 cities in South Los Angeles County, WRD is governed by an elected board that includes members such as Joy Langford, Rob Katherman, and John D. S. Allen.

Contact Information:
Angelina Mancillas
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (562) 275-4231

For more information and updates, please refer to the WRD website or follow them on social media.

Image: WRD Board Members with Marathon Petroleum Representatives
Logo: WRD Logo