News from: Valley Sanitary District
Valley Sanitary District (VSD) celebrated its 100 Year Anniversary yesterday evening at the Coachella Valley History Museum, bringing together community members, partner agencies, employees and local officials to reflect on a century of service and the District’s continued investments in the region.
Established in 1925, VSD has grown from serving fewer than 1,000 residents to providing safe and reliable wastewater collection and treatment for more than 90,000 people across Indio and the eastern Coachella Valley. Guests explored historic displays, viewed archival photos, visited informational booths hosted by VSD staff and enjoyed a commemorative program featuring remarks and proclamations from state and local leaders.
“The Coachella Valley’s journey over the last century from a few hundred individuals to nearly 400,000 today was made possible by the often unseen, unsung and innovative work of our wastewater agencies,” said State Water Board Chairman, E. Joaquin Esquivel. “The fact that Valley Sanitary District was created years before the incorporation of our first city, Indio, speaks to how fundamental the management of waste has been for the protection of our community’s health, environment, and our precious water resources.”
General Manager Jason Dafforn, P.E., recognized VSD’s staff and the many partners who have supported the District throughout its history. “Reaching 100 years is a milestone that reflects the dedication of our team and the trust of the community we serve,” Dafforn said. “We are proud of our history and equally proud of the planning and investments underway that will support Indio and the surrounding area for the next century.”
Board President Debra Canero also shared appreciation on behalf of the Board of Directors. “This celebration honors every community member, employee and partner who has contributed to the District’s success,” said Board President Debra Canero. “Valley Sanitary District has grown alongside this community for 100 years and we remain committed to providing safe and reliable service every day.”
As part of its long-term planning, the District is designing a tertiary treatment system that will allow VSD to produce recycled water for non-potable irrigation when it becomes cost-effective to implement. VSD is also advancing a biosolids conversion project with Lystek International that will transform wastewater byproducts into nutrient-rich fertilizer for local agriculture, reducing hauling costs and supporting regional sustainability.
Guests received the District’s newly published historic coffee table book, chronicling VSD’s evolution from early treatment ponds to the modern sanitary district it is today. The event concluded with a confetti photo moment featuring VSD Board Members, dignitaries and guests alongside a five-foot-tall “100” sculpture created for the anniversary.
About Valley Sanitary District
Valley Sanitary District provides wastewater collection and treatment services to more than 90,000 residents and businesses in Indio and portions of the eastern Coachella Valley. The District is committed to delivering reliable, efficient and sustainable service that protects public health and the environment. For more information, visit www.valley-sanitary.org