What LABS Events Cover
LABS of CWEA organized a recurring calendar of activities for water and wastewater professionals in the LA Basin region: technical presentations on treatment and reuse topics, tours of treatment plants and industrial facilities, hands-on training and certification courses, and the section's annual awards banquet honoring member and project achievements.
Monthly Presentations
Technical talks were a regular feature of the LABS calendar, covering a range of water and wastewater topics.
| Date | Topic |
|---|---|
| Nov 12, 2020 | Food Waste Recycling Program (virtual) |
| Sep 24, 2020 | Vitrified Clay Pipe Corrosion (virtual, first online monthly session) |
| Feb 20, 2020 | Onsite Water Recycling: Rethinking Reuse |
| Dec 12, 2019 | Vitrified Clay Pipe Corrosion |
| May 30, 2019 | Restaurant Fats, Oils, Grease, and Solids Removal Compliance and Devices |
| Apr 25, 2019 | Aeration Membranes and Nutrient Removal |
| Mar 21, 2019 | Post-Treatment Challenges for Potable Reuse Applications |
| Dec 13, 2018 | One Water Climate Risk Assessment for Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure |
The Los Angeles Basin Section of CWEA serves as a vital hub for water professionals across Southern California, connecting individuals and organizations committed to advancing the science and practice of water reclamation, recycling, and environmental stewardship. The section's newsletters keep members informed about the latest developments in the industry, from emerging treatment technologies to regulatory updates that shape how facilities operate. By publishing regular communications, the section ensures that practitioners remain current on best practices and innovative approaches to water quality management, helping to strengthen the collective expertise of the region's water workforce.
Members of LABS of CWEA benefit from a steady stream of news and announcements shared through the section's newsletter program. These communications highlight upcoming events, technical presentations, and professional development opportunities tailored to the interests of treatment plant operators, engineers, and environmental specialists. The newsletters also celebrate the achievements of peers and colleagues, including award recipients and newly appointed leaders within the association. Through this consistent flow of information, members stay connected to the broader water community and remain aware of the many ways to participate in section activities and contribute to shared goals.
Technical content featured in the newsletters explores a wide range of topics relevant to the clean water profession, including treatment process optimization, biosolids management, nutrient removal, and water reuse strategies. Articles often summarize key takeaways from monthly presentations and facility tours, extending the value of those events to members who could not attend in person. The newsletters also provide a platform for committee updates, allowing volunteer groups to share progress on initiatives related to public education, legislative affairs, and workforce development. This editorial mix ensures the publication serves as both a reference and a source of inspiration for water professionals.
The newsletter also serves as an important channel for announcing board elections, committee openings, and volunteer opportunities within the section. Members are encouraged to nominate themselves or their peers for leadership roles, helping to sustain a vibrant and representative organization. The publication regularly features calls for award nominations, spotlighting projects and individuals whose contributions deserve recognition by the broader membership. By making these opportunities visible and accessible, the newsletters strengthen civic participation within the association and reinforce the collaborative spirit that defines LABS of CWEA.
For those new to the field or to the section, the newsletters offer a welcoming introduction to the many resources and activities available through LABS of CWEA. Readers can learn about the section's history, its relationship to the statewide California Water Environment Association, and the ways in which local members shape the direction of the profession. The publication also connects members to national conferences and expositions, providing guidance on registration and participation. Overall, the newsletter program reflects the section's commitment to openness, knowledge sharing, and professional growth for everyone engaged in protecting and improving Southern California's water resources.
Facility Tours
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
Facility tour followed by a dinner gathering for members.
MWD Regional Recycled Water Advanced Purification Center
Tour of the Metropolitan Water District's advanced purification facility.
Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling Facility
On-site tour of the bottling facility's operations.
Past President's Picnic — Aquarium of the Pacific
Annual gathering for past section presidents.
Workshops & Training
- Water Reuse Workshop 2020 — held January 15, 2020.
- Membrane Operator Certification (MOC-IV) MBR Systems — held December 3–5, 2019.
- Water/Wastewater Automation Workshop — held October 31 and November 1, 2018.
- ECI Tool Belt Training — held November 15, 2018.
Conference, Community & Recognition
LABS members took part in CWEA's annual Conference and Expo (AC20), held virtually October 19–22, 2020. The section also organized community service such as a beach cleanup at Santa Monica Beach on October 19, 2019, and held its Annual Awards Banquet — including the 2018 banquet in January 2019 and the 2019 banquet later that year — recognizing member and project achievements. A call for award nominations in 2020 had a submission deadline of December 2, 2020.
Presentation Materials
Materials from monthly presentations and workshops were archived in the CWEA library for members and the public to reference. Related news and updates were posted under the section's News listings.