The External Affairs Department is CCWD’s vital link to the community, government agencies, and key partners. While public outreach is central to our mission, our responsibilities go far beyond traditional communication. We lead public education on all aspects of CCWD, manage media relations and emergency notifications, and build partnerships at the local, state, and federal levels. Our work also includes supporting policy development, legislative advocacy, advancing water conservation programs, and promoting transparency and trust across the District.

Our outreach efforts are designed to translate CCWD’s work into meaningful engagement with the people we serve. Public events, community meetings, and presentations are among the most valuable opportunities we have to connect. Every event is a chance to educate, listen, and strengthen relationships around water and wastewater services.

We engage through a variety of channels:

• Educational programs & school outreach – Inspiring students and connecting with future job seekers.
• Community & civic events – Collaborating with homeowner associations, service clubs, and civic groups.
• Public safety & preparedness – Participating in emergency preparedness forums and FireWise gatherings.
• Cultural & historical activities – Joining local celebrations, film festivals, and historical society presentations.

From classrooms to community halls, our goal is simple: ensure residents know their water and sewer systems are reliable and ready. Transparency, education, and engagement aren’t just words, they define how we show up for the people we serve.

Commitment to Transparency

On May 28, 2025, CCWD proudly earned the Transparency Certificate of Excellence from the Special District Leadership Foundation. This recognition is more than an award, it affirms our commitment to openness and accountability. From ethics training and open meeting compliance to publishing financial reports and maintaining an information-rich website, CCWD has embraced a culture of transparency that sets a high standard for rural water agencies.

2024 Year-In-Review

CCWD History

It is arguably one of the most crucial moments in CCWD’s history to share the story of how we came to be. Why did the citizens of Calaveras County vote by overwhelming majorities to create CCWD? How has our community flourished and grown thanks to the incredible water resources we have in this county? What has it taken to maintain and continually improve that infrastructure?

CCWD has embraced this responsibility and challenge, digging deep into the archives to bring this remarkable story to life for our community. We’ve had the privilege of presenting it to the Calaveras Historical Society, local Rotary Clubs, community groups, and quite frankly, anywhere and anytime, because this story is nothing short of extraordinary.

Advocacy and Partnerships

Healthy headwaters and resilient watersheds are the lifeblood of our water supply. They provide clean, reliable water and sustain ecosystems our communities depend on. FireWise awareness is equally critical, wildfire risk threatens homes, forests, and the integrity of water and sewer systems. CCWD is committed to being part of the solution.

At every event, we create space for open conversations. What we’ve learned is simple but powerful: nothing replaces one-on-one communication. Even at a FireWise meeting, questions can range from wildfire safety to water rates or infrastructure projects. These moments matter, they build trust and connect CCWD directly with the people we serve.

Our message is clear: protecting headwaters, maintaining healthy watersheds, and preparing for fire risk are shared responsibilities. CCWD leads, advocates, and engages because strong partnerships and informed communities are the foundation of a secure water future.

Legislative Advocacy

Water policy can feel complex, but CCWD works hard to make it understandable and relevant. Through our Legal Affairs Committee, we champion legislative efforts that protect local interests while shaping statewide and national conversations. Our priorities include:

• Water and Wastewater Affordability – Fighting for funding and policies that keep services reliable and affordable.
• Forest Management and Headwater Health – Partnering with regional, state, and federal agencies to reduce wildfire risk and safeguard water supplies.
• Infrastructure Investment – Securing resources to maintain and upgrade essential systems for future generations.

CCWD’s voice is heard in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., through active participation in organizations like ACWA, MCWRA, and CSDA, and through direct engagement with legislators and regulatory agencies. These efforts ensure Calaveras County’s needs are represented in decisions that affect water security across California.