Join host Charley Wilson, Executive Director of the Southern California Water Coalition, for a candid conversation with Metropolitan Water District of Southern California Board Chair Adán Ortega, Jr. and new General Manager Shivaji Deshmukh.

Recorded live in January 2026 at Santa Anita Park before 300 water, business, and community leaders, this compelling discussion tackles the future of Southern California's water supply.

Key topics include: • Planning for the next century of water reliability • The true cost of aging infrastructure • Preparing for climate whiplash on the Colorado River • Why major projects aren't the biggest drivers of water bills • Balancing affordability with necessary investments

Can Metropolitan invest enough to maintain system reliability while keeping water affordable and trusted? Tune in to hear water leaders address this critical question.

The Southern California Water Coalition educates to advocate. Be part of the conversation. Be part of the solution.

Learn more: https://socalwater.org

#WhatMattersWaterTVandPodcast #SouthernCaliforniaWaterCoalition #WaterPolicy #CaliforniaWater #MetropolitanWaterDistrict #WaterInfrastructure #ClimateResilience #WaterAffordability #WaterConservation #SustainableWater #SCWC #WaterLeadership #CaliforniaDrought #ColoradoRiver #WaterSecurity

In the heart of the San Fernando Valley lies a surprising contrast: a serene, beautiful Japanese garden sits right next to a massive, industrial water treatment plant. The twist? The water that keeps the garden lush comes from the plant, and the water that goes into the plant comes from the homes of millions of Angelenos.

For a century, Southern California has relied on a vital system of imported water brought from hundreds of miles away. But as climate change puts new pressure on those traditional sources, Los Angeles is making a multi-billion-dollar bet on a new, drought-proof local supply: advanced water recycling.

In this episode, we go inside the Donald C. Tillman Water Reclamation Plant to understand this monumental shift. Can we really turn wastewater into a pure, safe, and reliable source of drinking water?

We explore the technology, the cost, and the challenge of building public trust with the people who are essential to making it work:

-Eileen Alduenda (Council for Watershed Health): The environmental advocate focused on community impact and watershed health.

-Joe Broughton (Jacobs Engineering): The engineer who managed the complex construction of the expansion.

-Anselmo Collins (LADWP): The senior manager tasked with securing water for four million people.

Join us as we explore what it takes to turn a city's wastewater into its most valuable resource, and ask: Is this the future of water in Southern California?

If you like this episode, you may also enjoy What Matters Water TV + Podcast Episode 18, titled Wastewater to Wonder: California's Charge to Advanced Purified Water. https://whatmatterswatertvandpodcast.libsyn.com/scwc-podcast-ep18-v3

In this episode of What Matters Water TV and Podcast, host Charley Wilson brings you the full audio from a timely and thought-provoking webinar hosted by the Southern California Water Coalition.

As California faces mounting climate challenges, the conversation around reauthorizing the state's cap-and-trade program beyond 2030 is heating up. This episode dives into the 2025–26 state budget proposal and explores how revenues from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) could be strategically invested in critical water infrastructure to enhance climate resilience across the state.

Our expert panel includes:

• Johnny Amaral, Chief Operating Officer, Friant Water Authority
• Glenn Farrell, Principal, GF Advocacy
• Jennifer Pierre, General Manager, State Water Contractors

Together, they unpack the policy, politics, and potential of cap-and-trade as a funding mechanism for California's water future.

Tune in to learn how climate policy and water infrastructure intersect—and why it matters now more than ever.

California needs water infrastructure urgently. But why does it take decades to build something as essential as a reservoir?

In this episode of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, host Charley Wilson explores the complex, often frustrating world of water project development in California. From environmental reviews to legal red tape, we dig into the reasons why progress moves at a glacial pace—and what's being done to change that.

Charley is joined by three powerhouse guests:

• Jennifer Hernandez, a seasoned land use and environmental attorney with Holland & Knight, who breaks down the permitting puzzle.
• Jerry Brown, Executive Director of the long-awaited Sites Reservoir, who shares the inside story of one of California's most ambitious water projects.
• Tom Grable, a veteran building industry executive, who connects the dots between water infrastructure and housing development.

Together, they unpack California's permitting reform efforts, the real-world challenges of building water infrastructure, and what it will take to finally get shovels in the ground.

If you've ever wondered why it takes so long to build the water systems we all depend on—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now and get the full story behind the delays, the reforms, and the future of water in California.

Wildfires are changing. Is our water infrastructure ready? California wildfires aren't just getting more frequent—they're getting bigger, faster, and more destructive. When the flames rise, water is our most powerful firefighting tool. But can our water systems handle the demand? In this episode of What Matters Water TV & Podcast, we dive into the critical connection between wildfires and water. How do massive fires impact water quality? Are our water systems built to withstand both drought and high fire demand? And what lessons can we learn from past disasters? Join us as we hear from experts who have been on the front lines of fire response and water resilience: 🔥 Dr. Erica Fischer – Fire-resilient infrastructure expert from Oregon State University 🔥 Kurt Kowar – Public Works Director who navigated Colorado's Marshall Fire crisis

Don't miss this essential conversation on the future of firefighting water supply.

You'll learn more about the water infrastructure challenges of the Los Angeles wildfires and what's next as the community rebuilds.

California's water rules are changing—permanently.

Starting January 1, 2025, new regulations from the State Water Resources Control Board will require major water suppliers to cut water delivery significantly by 2040. This isn't just about managing water during droughts anymore—this is about building drought resilience into everyday life.

Water agencies across the state will now have to develop community-specific water budgets that account for residential, commercial, and landscape use. The measures include limiting outdoor watering, encouraging water-efficient appliances, and pushing Californians to rethink how we use every drop. And here's the kicker: failure to comply could cost agencies up to $10,000 a day in fines.

So what does this mean for all of us? Are these changes a burden—or an opportunity to innovate?

In episode 22 of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we have brought together a panel of experts to explore just that:

• Chelsea Haines, Regulatory Director with the Association of California Water Agencies, offering a statewide perspective on this massive shift.
• Kelly Kopp, Professor and Extension Specialist at Utah State University, who's focused on water efficiency research.
• William Ringland, Public Affairs and Conservation Manager at East Valley Water District, where smaller agencies are stepping up to meet big expectations.
• Fiona Sanchez, Director of Water Resources at Irvine Ranch Water District, who's at the forefront of implementing large-scale water solutions.

Together, we'll unpack the opportunities, the challenges, and the practical steps agencies and communities must take to get this right.

The stakes are high, and only time will tell if these changes deliver a sustainable water future without creating financial strain on communities.

Imagine a future where California faces increasing water instability. The state experiences more rain, less snow, and an uptick in extreme weather events like droughts and floods. Layer in the looming threats of sea level rise, climate change, and seismic activity, and the picture becomes even more complex.

Now, consider a solution designed to tackle these challenges head-on—the Delta Conveyance Project. This ambitious, multi-billion-dollar initiative aims to enhance water reliability for 27 million Californians by modernizing the water transport infrastructure within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. But what does this mean for the environment, local communities, and California's long-term water security?

In Episode 21 of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we navigate these critical issues with insights from three leading experts:

• Graham Bradner, Executive Director of the Delta Conveyance Design and Construction Authority, will delve into the technical complexities and innovations driving this monumental effort.

• Carrie Buckman, Delta Conveyance Environmental Program Manager from the California Department of Water Resources, will share her expertise in environmental planning and permitting, offering a glimpse into the state's vision for this transformative project.

• David Sunding, Emeritus Professor at UC Berkeley, will provide a thoughtful analysis of the project's economic ramifications.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of the Delta Conveyance Project and its potential to reshape California's water future. Prepare to dive deep into the critical issues that will define the next chapter in the state's water story.

In this very special episode of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we dive into the production team's favorite moments from the first 19 episodes. Join us as we revisit the cutting-edge water innovations that amazed us, tackle the urgent challenges of climate change affecting our water policies, and share the personal stories of the dedicated people ensuring that water flows from our taps.

Meredith Yinger, the producer of What Matters Water TV + Podcast through SheTV, steps in as host for this episode. Charley Wilson, normally the voice guiding us through each episode, joins as a guest alongside Lynn Lipinski, the writer and guest booker for the show.

Expect laughs, some funny outtakes, and a unique glimpse behind the scenes. Enjoy their favorite moments with guests like Wade Crowfoot, California's Secretary of Natural Resources, Karla Nemeth, Director of the Department of Water Resources, Joaquin Esquivel, Chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, and more.

Tune in for a celebration of water's wonders, challenges, and the inspiring individuals dedicated to preserving this vital resource.

What Matters Water TV + Podcast has had 42 guests on its show so far. Also included in this episode are: Newsha Ajami, Anselmo Collins, Heather Dyer, Tony Estremera, Anatole Falagan, Senator Eduardo Garcia, Martha Guzman, Adel Hagekhalil, Faith Kearns, Joone Lopez, Karla Nemeth, Dave Pedersen, Mark Pestrella, Senator Henry Stern, and Mayor Acquanetta Warren.

#cawater #SoCalWater #water #watermanagement #waterpolicy #californiawater #WhatMattersWater #Podcast

Get to know Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio from California's 48th District and listen along while she and host Charley Wilson delve into a profound conversation that unpacks the complexities of water management and policy in California. The dialogue also gets personal, as the assemblywoman shares her personal story, from her roots in Mexico, her family's journey to citizenship, her struggle to learn English and overcome stereotypes. Learn how she has become a powerful voice in California politics, and how her experiences shape her approach to governance and advocacy.

Assemblywoman Rubio's impressive career spans decades, during which she has made significant contributions to water management. From her early days as the youngest member of a local water board to her influential tenure on the State's Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee, Rubio brings unparalleled expertise and a passionate commitment to sustainable water resources.

In this episode, you will gain insightful perspectives on:

• The ongoing tug-of-war over water resources between Northern and Southern California.
• The intricate challenges of legislative compromise necessary to address the diverse needs of the state.
• Pivotal moments and experiences that have shaped Assemblywoman Rubio's journey and influence in water policy.

Don't miss the chance to become informed and inspired by Assemblywoman Rubio's journey and the vital issues at the forefront of California's water management. Tune in to Episode #19 now to watch or listen and stay connected to the pressing matters that impact our communities daily.

Get to know "What Matters Water TV + Podcast" in two minutes or less in our new podcast trailer designed to tell you what we're all about! 💧🎥

This isn't your average water cooler chat! Get ready for a cascade of engaging conversations, cutting-edge innovations, and vital insights that fuel the Southern California water community and our commitment to this life-sustaining resource.

Whether you're a water industry expert, environmental champion, or simply fascinated by the power and potential of water, this is your invitation to be inspired and informed. 💙

Join our growing community of Southern California water fanatics by subscribing to our channel, turning on your notifications, and sharing this video with fellow water advocates.

Together, we are the current driving forward to a more informed and water-conscious tomorrow. #cawater #WhatMattersWater #WaterConservation #california #socalwater #watermanagement

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