The International Making Cities Livable Council presented Irvine Ranch Water District with a Green Places Commendation for the IRWD San Joaquin Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary. The commendation recognizes IRWD for “the low key campus in an extensive wetlands restoration, offering quiet exploration of nature and a rich educational program for children and adults teaching environmental responsibility.”

The purpose of the Making Cities Livable movement is to enhance the well-being of inhabitants of cities and towns, strengthen community, improve social and physical health, and increase civic engagement by reshaping the built environment of cities, suburbs and towns. According to the International Making Cities Livable organization, the measure of the city's livability is how good it is for children and youth. 

IRWD’s San Joaquin Marsh is a hidden gem in an urban environment -- one of Southern California’s most notable nature respites. It encompasses more than 300 acres of coastal wetlands, half of which have been restored to a natural state.  

The San Joaquin Marsh is home to a wide variety of environmental partnerships and educational opportunities, serving as a living laboratory for students, teachers and the public. Among the International Making Cities Livable Council Board Members are internationally known urban leaders such as Mayor Joseph P. Riley Jr. of Charleston, Mayor Robert Morrow of Hamilton, Canada, Mayor Sylvia Sutherland of Peterborough, Canada, Governor Sven von Ungern-Sternberg of Freiburg, Germany and Dean Edoardo Salzano of Venice, Italy.

From Left, Bob Mueting and Larry Mauri of RJM Design, Trude Hurd of the Sea and Sage Audubon Society and IRWD Board Members Mary Aileen Matheis and Peer Swan display the award presented to IRWD and RJM Design for the San Joaquin Marsh from the International Making Cities Livable Council.