May 20, 2025

San Lorenzo, CA,  May 20, 2025 – Oro Loma Sanitary District has been awarded “Plant of the Year” in the Medium Plant category (5–20 MGD) by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA). This top statewide honor recognizes the District’s outstanding compliance record, pioneering treatment innovations, and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. 

“We are incredibly honored to receive this prestigious award,” said Jimmy Dang, General Manager of Oro Loma. “Our efforts to advance wastewater treatment exemplify our dedication to serving and protecting our community, public health, and the environment.”

The statewide recognition follows Oro Loma’s earlier win as Plant of the Year from the CWEA San Francisco Bay Section.

Oro Loma Recognized for Leadership Across Multiple Areas

Excellence in Collection System Management

Oro Loma also earned the CWEA Collections System of the Year – Medium award, affirming the District’s holistic approach to water quality and infrastructure.

Commitment to Compliance

Oro Loma staff accept the CWEA “Plant of the Year” award at the 2025 state conference in April 2025.

Oro Loma consistently exceeds regulatory standards. Its advanced nutrient removal system maintains Total Inorganic Nitrogen (TIN) levels below 10 mg/L, well under design targets.

Pioneering Environmental Innovation

A leader in responding to nutrient pollution concerns in San Francisco Bay, Oro Loma implemented a Nutrient Optimization Project to reduce nutrient discharges and improve water quality. In collaboration with UC Berkeley, the District is advancing research into reverse osmosis concentrate treatment via an innovative Horizontal Levee project. A 40-mile pipeline replacement program further demonstrates its commitment to infrastructure resilience.

Sustainability in Action

Oro Loma is cutting its energy footprint through solar energy, biogas cogeneration, and a Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) receiving program that supports renewable energy generation.

Sustainable Biosolids Management

The District produces Class A biosolids through anaerobic digestion and solar drying, which are then reused in agriculture, reducing landfill use and environmental impact.

Operational Excellence

Oro Loma tracks 25 performance benchmarks aligned with industry standards, covering everything from regulatory compliance to energy use and customer service. The District also utilizes a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and mean cell residence time controls to maximize system performance.

About Oro Loma Sanitary District

Established in 1911, Oro Loma Sanitary District provides wastewater collection and treatment, as well as residential and commercial solid waste services. The District serves the unincorporated communities of San Lorenzo, Ashland, Cherryland, Fairview, and parts of Castro Valley, Hayward, and San Leandro. Located on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, the District remains committed to innovation, environmental protection, and exceptional service.

CONTACT:
Jimmy Dang, General Manager
510-276-4700