Miller Reservoir Restoration Ensures Water Reliability for Generations by Orchard Dale Water District Oct 21, 2025 Member Submitted News WHITTIER – Orchard Dale Water District (ODWD) proudly celebrated the restoration of the Miller Reservoir, a $3.9 million Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)-supported project that brings 1.5 million gallons of water storage back online. By securing federal funding, ODWD completed the restoration with minimal cost impact to ratepayers while delivering essential improvements. The result is a stronger system that protects households, businesses, and critical facilities, ensuring that reliable water is available when it is needed most. “This reservoir is a major investment in the safety and security of our region,” said Edward Castaneda, General Manager at Orchard Dale Water District. “By restoring storage capacity and adding critical upgrades, we are protecting families, schools, and businesses while saving ratepayers millions through federal support.” ODWD led seven years of planning and coordination with FEMA, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), schools, and local partners to deliver the facility. With cutting-edge safety and seismic upgrades, the reservoir secures reliable service for generations to come. The project improves vital storage capacity, strengthens fire protection, and reduces contamination risks. It also adds a new storm drain line, upgraded distribution systems, improved access points, and advanced monitoring technology to ensure a reliable, safe, and resilient water supply. “The Miller Reservoir restoration is an important step in protecting public health,” said Sean McCarthy, Assistant Deputy Director at the State Water Resources Control Board. “Upgrades like advanced monitoring systems, seismic reinforcement, and improved distribution lines reduce risks of contamination and ensure safe water delivery under even the most challenging conditions.” The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from ODWD Board leadership and local representatives, such as Senator Bob Archuleta and Assistant Deputy Vincent Morales. More than 50 people attended the event, taking the opportunity to see the upgrades up close. For more information about Orchard Dale Water District and its ongoing infrastructure projects, visit www.odwd.org. Calif. Senator Bob Archuleta – (D) Pico Rivera / 30th District “It took seven years of planning and collaboration with the local officials, FEMA, and the schools, the community partners, Miller Reservoir is once again ready to serve the community. The restoration project restores 1.5 million gallons of water storage, enhances safety, seismic resilience, improves environmental performance and reduces contamination risk, ensuring a stronger, safer and more reliable water system for generations to come.” Edward Castaneda – General Manager, Orchard Dale Water District “At the heart of this project, it brings a peace of mind, knowing that our water supply is secure and our neighbors are protected, and our families have a resource they need to bring the sense of comfort and that no construction detail that can’t really capture that kind of sense. This reservoir is more than an infrastructure. It’s a reassurance that in times of need, we are prepared. Our community is protected.” Denise Dolor – Board President, Orchard Dale Water District “We built a reservoir that will stand strong for years to come, supporting our water needs, fire protection and drought resilience. This reservoir belongs to the community. It’s a promise that when we turn on the tap, when our children go to school, or when our firefighters respond to a call, the water will be there, safe, strong and reliable.” Sean McCarthy – Assistant Deputy Director, State Water Resources Control Board “It’s great to show our partnership with the water utilities in protecting public health and providing the best water quality to all customers. We look at reservoirs and tanks as being the most vulnerable part of a water infrastructure and distribution system, and it’s critical. They are critical for providing enough storage for peak demands and emergencies.”
