MWDOC 2026 Water Awareness Poster Contest Awards Ceremony
Katie Vincent, Public Affairs Coordinator, Municipal Water District of Orange County
June 29, 2026
On June 11, the Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC), in partnership with the Orange County Water District (OCWD), welcomed more than 160 students, families, and community members to its shared campus to celebrate the winners of MWDOC’s annual Water Awareness Poster Contest. The event recognized 40 K-12 student artists for their creative interpretations of the 2026 theme, “Water Connects Us All,” while highlighting the importance of water education and stewardship in Orange County.
For more than 35 years, MWDOC has hosted the Water Awareness Poster Contest for K-12 students throughout its service area. Each year, students submit hand-drawn posters inspired by a water-themed topic. The 2026 theme encouraged students to explore the many ways water supports our
communities, environment, and daily lives. Forty student winners were selected, with four grand prize winners—one from each grade band (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12)—receiving an iPad.
After a special appearance by MWDOC’s mascot, Ricky the Rambunctious Raindrop(SM), the formal awards ceremony recognized each student winner with their framed artwork. The evening also featured a taco station, along with a pledge to save and protect water.
MWDOC General Manager Harvey De La Torre welcomed guests and provided an overview of MWDOC’s role in ensuring a reliable, high-quality water supply for Orange County. MWDOC Director Megan Yoo Schneider also shared a personal story about meeting Ricky as a child and how that early experience inspired her interest in water and ultimately influenced her career path.
This year, MWDOC refreshed the event by partnering with OCWD to host the event. Attendees enjoyed an exclusive tour of OCWD’s Groundwater Replenishment System and learned more about the work that goes into delivering clean, reliable water to Orange County residents.
Each student winner received water-smart prizes and certificates of recognition. Students left feeling celebrated and inspired, with a deeper understanding of the importance of water and how it truly connects us all.
For more information on the Poster Contest, visit www.mwdoc.com/postercontest.
View the ceremony photo album.
