The WaterLab at UCSC: A Catalyst for Educational Outreach (2009-2020)
The Water Teaching and Research Laboratory (WaterLab), a collaborative venture between the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) and the Watsonville Water Resources Center, significantly fostered water research and education in the Pajaro Valley. Established in 2009, the Lab offered a unique learning environment for students of all ages, from elementary school children to graduate researchers.
WaterLab’s key strength lies in its direct connection to various water sources. Unlike traditional laboratories, WaterLab provided access to potable, secondary, and tertiary water flows. This unique setup allowed students to engage in real-world research on a pilot scale. They could experiment with various water treatment processes, simulating municipal wastewater treatment facilities’ challenges.
One of the Lab’s most impactful programs involved constructing, operating, and testing slow-sand filtration systems. By participating in this hands-on experience, students gained valuable insights into the critical role of filtration in safeguarding public health.
The success of WaterLab hinged on a strong partnership between UCSC and the Watsonville Water Resources Center. Dr. Brent Haddad, a key figure in the Lab’s development, expressed his particular gratitude to Kevin Silviera, the visionary manager of the Center during its collaboration with UCSC. Silviera’s leadership, optimism, and openness to new ideas were instrumental in making WaterLab a reality.
While the Lab’s physical operations at the Watsonville Water Resources Center concluded in 2020, its legacy endures. The program undoubtedly inspired many students to pursue careers in water management and related fields. Furthermore, UCSC’s commitment to water research continues. The university’s ongoing collaboration with the USAID-funded Center of Excellence for Water in Alexandria, Egypt, exemplifies this enduring dedication.
The WaterLab story serves as a testament to the power of collaboration in fostering scientific exploration and environmental awareness. Its impact on the Pajaro Valley and beyond continues to inspire future generations of water scientists and engineers.