OUR VISION
Universal access to safe, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater management nationwide
OUR APPROACH
We all need clean water, but many communities struggle with aging infrastructure, costly rates, poor water quality, and distrust of their water. Our research, including the recent launch of the Human Right to Water Solutions Lab, helps government agencies advance access to safe, reliable, and affordable drinking water, especially in underserved communities.
JUST PUBLISHED
How have the LA Fires affected water systems in LA County? An Early Overview
In January 2025, LA County experienced multiple fast-moving fires that began as wildland events but quickly spread into residential areas, destroying homes and critical infrastructure. This report provides an early assessment of the Palisades and Eaton fires’ impacts on local water systems, focusing on damage to infrastructure, service disruptions, and the unique vulnerabilities of the affected communities.
EXPERTS
Gregory Pierce, Senior Director
Megan Mullin, Faculty Director
Edith B. de Guzman, Policy Specialist
Grace Harrison, Project Manager
Ariana Hernandez, Project Manager
NEWS
Who manages your water in Southern California and why it matters
New UCLA Atlas reveals fragmented water governance has unequal impacts on affordability, quality and resilience.
UCLA to help inform California’s residential water use policy implementation
A multi-university team evaluates impacts on water supply, wastewater, recycled water, and affordability.
MEDIA COVERAGE
Water bills in L.A. County are rising faster than inflation, UCLA research shows (Los Angeles Times)
Flood deaths are rising in the U.S., fueled by heavier rainfall (The Washington Post)
Smaller water districts were hit hardest by L.A. firestorms, UCLA report finds (Los Angeles Times)
Water now safe to drink in all areas after L.A. fires, state says (Los Angeles Times)
