The City of Lake Elsinore received the prestigious Helen Putnam Award for Planning and Environmental Quality for its creation and implementation of the Lake Management Plan.
Presented by the League of California Cities during its annual conference in Long Beach, the Helen Putnam Award recognizes excellence in local government across the state. The award highlights outstanding achievements that improve the quality of life for residents while promoting responsible and forward-thinking planning practices.
In recent years, Lake Elsinore faced challenges from harmful algal blooms, nutrient pollution, and low oxygen levels. In response, the city launched the Lake Management Plan—a multi-year initiative aimed at improving water quality and restoring the lake’s ecosystem health.
Key actions under this plan include deploying advanced nanobubble technology to oxygenate the water, implementing phosphorus mitigation to slow algae growth, and using satellite-based systems to monitor cyanobacteria levels.
As a result, dissolved oxygen levels near the lake bottom have more than tripled, sediment quality has improved, and cyanobacteria levels are undetectable.
“Receiving the Helen Putnam Award is a tremendous honor and a testament to the dedication, collaboration, and vision of our staff and community partners,” City Manager Jason Simpson said. “This recognition motivates us to continue implementing innovative solutions that protect Lake Elsinore and ensure it remains a premier destination for recreation and natural beauty.”
