Awards

OCWD is recognized globally for its leadership and innovation on water quality, water supply and reliability, groundwater management, the environment, and sound financial management. Its work has been recognized by local and international organizations and the District has received hundreds of awards over the years. Our most recent awards are listed below.

2026

  • Top 25 Newsmaker | Chris Olsen | Engineering News-Record
  • Membrane Facility of the Year – Large | GWRS | American Membrane Technology Association

2025

  • STAR Award of Distinction | Meet the Staff Video Series | California Association of Public Information Officials
  • Golden Gate Recognition | Orange County Water District | Cal/OSHA Consultation Services
  • Outstanding Water/Wastewater/Recycle Water Project | Fullerton PFAS Treatment Plant – Main Plant | American Society of Civil Engineers – Los Angeles
  • Sustainable Water Utility Management Award | Orange County Water District | Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies
  • Outstanding Water/Wastewater/Recycle Water Project | Fullerton PFAS Treatment Plant – Main Plant | American Society of Civil Engineers – Orange County
  • Blue Pencil and Gold Screen Award | Promotional/Informational Video: The Power of Water Recycling: OCWD in Action | National Association of Government Communicators
  • Certificate of Excellence | Association of California Water Agencies
  • EPIC Award | Next Generation Water Leaders Video | California Association of Public Information Officials
  • Award of Distinction | Prado Bald Eagles Public Outreach Campaign | California Association of Public Information Officials

2024

  • Excellence in Water Reuse Performance, Industry & Sustainability Awards l GWRS l International Desalination and Reuse Association
  • National Environmental Achievement Award, Community Leadership | GWRS Final Completion | National Association of Clean Water Agencies
  • Best in Show Award | GWRS Final Completion Dedication | California Association of Public Information Officials
  • EPIC Award | GWRS Final Completion Dedication | California Association of Public Information Officials