For Immediate Release
Contact: Arman Tarzi, Government & Public Affairs Manager
(951) 685-7434
Jurupa Valley, CA (December 9, 2024) – The Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) is proud to announce it has received the prestigious Excellence in Innovation Award from the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA). This accolade was presented during the ACWA Fall Conference in Palm Desert, California, attended by hundreds of water industry professionals and agencies.
JCSD was recognized for its innovative Heli-Hydrant Project, an initiative designed to enhance firefighting capabilities and water management efficiency across Eastvale and Jurupa Valley. By integrating water resource management with fire safety initiatives through the Heli-Hydrant Project, JCSD redefines the role of water agencies as pivotal partners in frontline emergency response, going beyond traditional water services. This award-winning project exemplifies groundbreaking and unique practices that contribute to long-term water resilience, aligning perfectly with ACWA’s criteria which favor initiatives that drive significant advancements in the water sector.
The JCSD Heli-Hydrant Project, initiated in October 2023 and operational since July 2024, has set a new standard in emergency preparedness and resource management. Designed to rapidly supply large volumes of water for aerial firefighting efforts, these installations are the first of their kind in the Inland Empire and underscore JCSD’s leadership in addressing critical community safety needs through innovative technology. A total of four heli-hydrants are planned for the Eastvale and Jurupa Valley areas.
“Receiving the ACWA Excellence in Innovation Award is a tremendous honor and validates our commitment to enhancing the safety and efficiency of water use in our community,” said Board President Bart Moreno. “This project reflects our vital contribution to public safety and support for first responders during critical times.”
ACWA represents over 470 public agencies, collectively responsible for 90% of the water delivered to cities, farms, and businesses in California. The ACWA Awards are highly competitive, recognizing member agencies that demonstrate unique and creative solutions addressing contemporary water challenges. After an application and review process, finalists were invited to present their innovations on a panel during the ACWA Fall Conference with General Manager Chris Berch representing JCSD.
To learn more, please visit www.JCSD.us/HeliHydrant.
