OneWater Nevada and TMWA’s Lydia Peri Among Recipients of WaterReuse Association Awards for Excellence
March 31, 2021
The WaterReuse Association has recognized the OneWater Nevada initiative and Truckee Meadows Water Authority’s (TMWA) Lydia Peri among the recipients of its Awards for Excellence. The awards were given at a March 22 ceremony at the virtual 36th Annual WaterReuse Symposium. The WaterReuse Association is a national trade association dedicated to advancing laws, policy, funding, and public acceptance of recycled water.
OneWater Nevada—a collaborative initiative in which TMWA plays a key role—was named in the “Community Water Champion” category. This award recognizes the accomplishments of utilities and local government entities that ensure a safe, reliable, locally-controlled water supply.
John Enloe, TMWA’s Director of Natural Resources highlighted the importance of collaboration in the success of the OneWater Nevada initiative. “None of what we’re trying to accomplish could be achieved by a single agency or government entity,” said Enloe. “This is a true community effort, and it hinges on a shared recognition of the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing all of our region’s water resources. This recognition is particularly gratifying because it points to the cohesiveness and success of the OneWater Nevada effort.”
Lydia Peri, TMWA’s Emerging Resources Program Administrator, was honored with the “Up and Comer” award. Peri serves as the demonstration manager for the OneWater Nevada initiative, operating as the pivotal link between agencies, operators, students, regulators, technology providers, and elected officials. The “Up and Comer” award recognizes a professional with less than 10 years of experience in the recycled water field for leadership in the industry and commitment to pursuing water recycling as a career path.
“It’s both humbling and gratifying to be included in this group of recipients,” said Peri. “I feel very fortunate to be part of such an important, collaborative effort in our community. Personally, it’s an amazing professional opportunity but, more importantly, the work we’re doing has the potential to provide our region with numerous, profound benefits.”
OneWater Nevada is a collaborative partnership between the University of Nevada, Reno; City of Reno, City of Sparks; Washoe County; and Truckee Meadows Water Authority. OneWater Nevada completed the first advanced purified water groundwater injection demonstration project in Nevada and is providing Northern Nevada the invaluable benefits of data, public education, local design and operations expertise to utilize water reuse for the region’s long-term sustainability.