SACRAMENTO, CA--(Marketwire - May 28, 2010) - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger praised the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) today for a century of leadership on water issues and for its role in California's growth and development. Today marks the centennial anniversary of the statewide organization's founding in 1910.
"Congratulations to ACWA for 100 years of action improving and protecting California's complex water system. The association was instrumental in helping the state reach a comprehensive water solution to serve future generations and is a strong partner in updating our water infrastructure," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "ACWA is, and will continue to be, an invaluable partner in achieving our state's water management goals."
To commemorate its centennial, ACWA President Paul Kelley and Executive Director Timothy Quinn today unveiled a permanent addition to the water policy exhibit at the California Museum for History, Women and the Arts.
Formally established by five irrigation districts on May 28, 1910, in Modesto, the association is the largest and most diverse coalition of public water agencies in the country. Originally known as the Irrigation Districts Association, the name was changed to the Association of California Water Agencies in 1977 to reflect its increasingly diverse membership. Today, ACWA totals 450 public water agency members which serve 90% of the water delivered in the state.
The five founding members are Alta Irrigation District, Modesto Irrigation District, Oakdale Irrigation District, South San Joaquin Irrigation District and Turlock Irrigation District.
ACWA's additions to the water policy exhibit at the museum include historic photographs of the signings of major water legislation and colorful plaques describing ACWA's contribution to California's development over the last century. The exhibit showcases the partnership between ACWA and its members in shaping the state's water policy over the past 100 years.
"ACWA and its members have a rich history of shaping California's growth and development," Kelley said. "From early irrigation statutes to the signing of the historic legislative water package last November, ACWA continues to help shape the laws and policies that have allowed California to grow and prosper. In this historic time in water, it is fitting to celebrate that legacy while also looking to the future."
"The California Museum aims to educate and inspire men, women and children about California's rich history," said Claudia French, executive director for the museum. "The museum is honored to share in the celebration of ACWA's 100th anniversary and showcase its century of contributions to California water policy history."
For more information, visit www.acwa.com/centennial/ or www.californiamuseum.org.
Contact Information:
Contact:
Jennifer Persike
ACWA Director of Strategic Coordination and Public Affairs
916/441-4545
916/296-3981 (cell)
