California’s construction, infrastructure, and environmental projects face a unique and growing challenge: groundwater management. From large-scale infrastructure builds to urban developments and remediation projects, dewatering, the process of removing groundwater to enable construction or excavation, is a routine necessity.

As 2026 begins, individuals, organizations, and industries are redefining what sustainability truly means. One of the most impactful commitments to make this year is a Clean Water Pledge, a pledge that goes beyond drinking water to protect all forms of clean water, including stormwater, wastewater, groundwater, irrigation systems, industrial water, and natural waterways.

California’s economy, environment, and public health depend on one critical system: water infrastructure. From aging pipelines and dams to treatment plants and flood control systems, California’s water-related infrastructure is under increasing strain.

Across the country, water systems are aging, demands are rising, and the challenges tied to climate change aren’t slowing down. But one issue is quietly shaping the future of every treatment plant, utility, and public works department: a rapidly shrinking water workforce.

California State Parks host some of the most ecologically diverse landscapes in the country, from coastal bluffs and mountain lakes to historic sites and deserts. With millions of visitors exploring these parks every year, the need for reliable, sustainable water treatment has never been more critical.

Clean, safe drinking water is foundational to public health, economic development, and environmental justice. Yet in the United States, many states struggle with aging infrastructure, contamination, underfunded systems, and natural challenges.

When people hear about a government shutdown, they usually think of closed national parks, furloughed federal workers, or political gridlock in Washington. But one of the less obvious yet critical areas affected is water treatment and infrastructure.

When you think about what makes a city thrive, chances are you picture skyscrapers, public transit, or maybe that local coffee shop with the perfect oat milk latte. But here’s a fun fact: none of it works without clean, reliable water.

Clean water is something most of us take for granted, until it isn’t. Beneath our feet, groundwater provides drinking water, nourishes crops, and keeps industries running.

Yucca Valley, CA — The Hi-Desert Water District’s (HDWD) Phase 2 sewer expansion, a $103 million project, is more than just new pipes.

Clean, reliable water is essential to public health, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Yet much of the United States’ water infrastructure is deteriorating, and fast.

Natural disasters can disrupt water systems and leave communities without clean drinking water.

Water is more than a utility, it’s the lifeblood of every thriving community, business, and facility. From safe drinking water to sustainable wastewater management, how we handle water infrastructure today directly impacts our future.

Alaska, with its extensive and unspoiled water resources, faces unique challenges in their management.

Clean water is fundamental to agriculture, serving as the cornerstone for crop irrigation, livestock hydration, and food processing.

Water infrastructure encompasses systems that gather, treat, distribute, and recycle water for daily use.

Across the United States, millions are unknowingly exposed to toxic chemicals in their drinking water.

Water is essential, but much of the infrastructure supplying clean water is aging and urgently needs investment.

As we approach 2025, the US water infrastructure landscape faces critical challenges and promising developments.

Aging water systems can lead to contamination, posing significant health risks.