Nevada Student Competes at 2023 Stockholm Junior Water Prize

The Stockholm Junior Water Prize was established in 1997 through the Water Environment Federation. The competition is open to public, private, or independent high school students in grades 9-12 who will have reached age 15 by Aug. 1 of the competition year and who have conducted water-related science projects. Entries receive ratings for relevance, methodology, subject knowledge, practical skills, creativity and paper/presentation. Charlie Lee is Nevada's lead on SJWP activities in Nevada.

By: Garrett Ordonez

I am grateful and humbled for the opportunity to serve as Nevada’s representative for the SJWP. AP Environmental Science informed me about water and terrestrial pollution, which I further investigated in AP Research. I narrowed my scope to digital marketing and outreach to find my research question. My project explored the Effectiveness of SNWA (Southern Nevada Water Authority) Conservation Strategies on Xeriscaping in Single-Family Households, which continued the conversation of drought awareness and engagement. I initially conducted my research for AP Research but later found the SJWP. I first adjusted my project to the set parameters. Then when selected as a state winner, I prepared a video summarizing my research. AP Research well prepared me.

The experience gave me insight into science fairs – this was my first competition. Hearing about other students’ backgrounds and research projects was an eye-opening experience, from using caffeine to laser image recognition, all research projects related to water. Water is a multifaceted issue. I met incredible coaches, judges, and students who shared my passion for water. I’m incredibly thankful to my teachers and peers for inspiring and guiding me – their assistance helped me finalize my research project. I would also like to thank the NWEA (Nevada Water Environment Association) for selecting me as Nevada’s representative to compete for the SJWP in Golden, Colorado. And thank you, Water Environment Federation and Xylem, for the Bjorn von Euler Innovation in Water Award.

1st Annual Water Palooza in Reno

By: Monica Morales

Nevada Water Environment Association had its first Water Palooza event in Reno, NV. The event served as a platform to raise awareness about water conservation, environmental sustainability, and the importance of responsible water management. The Katherine Dunn Elementary School was treated to engaging activities, including educational workshops and interactive exhibits.

A huge thanks to all the faculty at Katherine Dunn Elementary School for hosting this event so that the entire school could attend! I even heard a student tell her teacher at the end of the day “I LOVE Water Palooza!” Thanks to all the agency and company volunteers that took the time to set up, share about your water related work, and facilitate fun activities for the students! We are so excited to be able to have this event again next year and are already planning on how to make this even more fun for everyone! If anyone is interested in participating next year, please reach out!

2023 Golf Tournament

By: Hamed Hedari

The Nevada Water Environment Association (NWEA) Golf Tournament is an annual event that brings together professionals from the water and wastewater industry for a day of friendly competition and networking. The tournament serves as a platform for industry members to connect, exchange ideas, and support the NWEA's mission of promoting environmental stewardship in Nevada's water resources. Participants, including engineers, operators, consultants, and vendors, eagerly anticipate this event as an opportunity to showcase their golf course skills while raising funds for the association's initiatives.

The first NWEA Golf Tournament exceeded expectations, with a record number of contenders vying for the top spots. The event attracted diverse participants from across the industry, resulting in a highly competitive yet fun atmosphere. The unexpected surge in the number of contenders speaks to the tournament's growing popularity and the enthusiasm of professionals within the water and wastewater sector to engage in friendly competition. The increased level of competition only added to the excitement and camaraderie among participants, fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual support throughout the tournament.