Annual Report
2024
ENERGY
Annual Report
2024
The Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) values people by fostering connections with customers, employees, and the community. Through initiatives like the newly updated customer portal and the Loomis Demonstration Garden, PCWA enhances customer engagement and empowerment. PCWA also invests in the next generation with programs such as internships, elementary school outreach, and Career Technical Education (CTE) Day. We also celebrate our employees and love showcasing their hard work whenever possible. In 2024, PCWA also took part in collaborations with local partners on joint publications and video projects, ensuring a shared commitment to teamwork, innovation, and serving with excellence.
Fowler Nurseries, Inc.
If you decide to plant a tree in your yard, where does it come from? Sure, you'll probably buy it from a local plant nursery or home improvement store. But it was probably grown at a place like Fowler Nurseries in Newcastle, one of many thriving farms served by Placer County Water Agency.
PCWA recently visited Fowler Nurseries and Fowler Ranch, where agriculture and water have created a thriving, multi-generational success story.
At any given time, Fowler Nurseries grows about 750,000 trees for commercial orchardists, retail nurseries, and homeowners. The water that's essential to raise those trees comes from PCWA's Caperton Canal, part of a vast raw-water distribution system that has served Placer County since the Gold Rush.
Explore water-wise landscaping techniques and sustainable gardening practices at Placer County's newest demonstration garden: the UC Master Gardeners of Placer County Demonstration Garden at the Loomis Library and Community Learning Center. Spearheaded by the UC Master Gardeners of Placer County, the demonstration garden replaced over 11,000 square feet of lawn to serve as a valuable community resource.
Visit the Garden
Get inspired! Come visit the new UCCE Placer County Master Gardeners Demonstration Garden in the charming town of Loomis! Discover sustainable gardening practices and ideas for your own yard or garden. All plants have labels with QR codes to learn more and docents will be available to share their knowledge.
A Year of Growth & Partnership
PCWA was proud to sponsor the UCCE Placer County Master Gardeners Demonstration Garden, supporting its development from groundbreaking to grand opening. Over the past year, this garden has grown to become a living example of sustainable landscaping.
Future Workshops
The demonstration garden is a living classroom for the Placer County community that emphasizes sustainable gardening and so much more. PCWA will be participating in several upcoming workshops on water-efficient plants, irrigation, and rebates. For details, check out their calendar of events or PCWA's social media pages.
Elementary Program
PCWA staff transformed Sierra Elementary School in Rocklin into "water molecule magicians" to teach kids about the magic of water! This was just one of the fun ways our staff teaches elementary school kids about where their water comes from and the essential role it plays in everyday life.
High School Program
PCWA welcomed high school students from across Placer County for our annual Career and Technical Education Day. They explored the world of water management, getting hands-on experience and insights into potential career paths. From touring our facilities to engaging in activities like GIS mapping, IT, and meter repairs, they got a taste of what it's like to work in our industry.
Celebrating Our Interns
In honor of National Intern Day, we shine a light on our incredible PCWA interns. From Field Services to Power Systems to Engineering, their hard work and dedication to learning were an asset to the agency, and we couldn't be more grateful for their contributions. PCWA's internship program allows college students the opportunity to learn out in the field, coordinate projects with staff, and stretch their industry knowledge and skillset in real-time.
We choose a charity every quarter to support through the use of fundraisers, volunteer work, and employee donations. Past fundraisers have included food competitions, physical item donations, and volunteer time.
As active Chamber of Commerce members, we engage with community leaders, provide water updates, and participate in local initiatives. We also host Chamber Leadership groups for behind-the-scenes tours, offering insight into the business of water, energy, and our role in the region.
PCWA honored Michael R. Lee for his 40 years of public service, including 24 years on the PCWA Board of Directors. First elected in 2000, Director Lee represented District 3, covering Rocklin, Loomis, and surrounding areas. Before joining PCWA, he served as a Placer County Supervisor, where he contributed to major projects like the Loomis Basin General Plan and the Twelve Bridges development. At PCWA, Director Lee secured a 40-year federal license for the Middle Fork Project and advanced water delivery infrastructure. Lee retired from the Board in December, leaving a lasting legacy of dedicated leadership.
Ed Horton is the recipient of NCWA's Will S. Green Award for his contributions to promoting and preserving sustainable agriculture in the region and Placer County.
"ED is one of ours. Placer is part of what makes Northern California a special place, and he cares deeply about making sure that this region and this part of our state remains the bastion of stewardship when it comes to agriculture in the state of California."
-Andy Fecko, PCWA General Manager.
NEW BILLING SYSTEM AND CUSTOMER PORTAL FOR ENHANCED CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
In 2024, we successfully launched and transitioned to our new utility billing system. This improved platform streamlines account management, integrates key processes, and enhances customer service.
Join us at PCWA, where we're not just a water resource agency; we're a dynamic force driving sustainability and innovation in Placer County, California. As the primary authority for water resource planning, management, and distribution, we're entrusted with crucial responsibilities, from providing clean drinking water and managing an extensive canal system, to producing hydroelectric energy. But beyond our duties, we're a community of professionals united in our commitment to excellence. We thrive on collaboration and creativity, working together to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. Why work at PCWA? Because here, you'll be part of a team at the forefront of water management, shaping the future of our community and beyond. Join us on this rewarding journey. Visit pcwa.net to learn more and apply today.
