In 2005, the “International Decade of Fresh Water” was proclaimed by the United Nations to raise awareness about global water ... issues. To underscore the importance of water quality and conservation issues, Metropolitan partnered with the United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Friends of the United Nations, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County and Water For People to create a grant competition for local colleges and universities that would promote new water use-efficient technologies, policies and communications strategies. The Forum also helps to generate student interest in engineering, environmental science and related careers in the water industry, promoting economic and workforce development in Southern California. College teams are eligible to compete for $10,000 demonstration grants. For additional information, contact Benita Lynn Horn at 888 (42) WATER or waterforum@mwdh2o.com. read more