City of Lake Elsinore Honored with Prestigious Helen Putnam Award

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.

"The Helen Putnam Award recognizes our commitment to restoring and preserving Lake Elsinore for generations to come," said Council Member Steve Manos, who accepted the award alongside City Manager Jason Simpson, Assistant Director of Lake and Community Operations, Adam Gufarotti, Management Analyst, Bailey MacLean, and City Clerk, Candice Alvarez. "It was incredibly rewarding to share our Lake Management Plan with colleagues from across California and showcase how innovative solutions can protect both our environment and our community's recreational heritage."

Lake Elsinore has long been a treasured destination for residents and visitors, offering 3,000 acres of scenic beauty and recreational opportunities such as boating, kayaking, fishing, and lakeside gatherings. In recent years, the lake faced challenges from harmful algal blooms, nutrient pollution, and low oxygen levels.

In response, the City launched the comprehensive, science-driven Lake Management Plan-a multi-year initiative aimed at improving water quality and restoring ecosystem health in Lake Elsinore. Key actions 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.

This significant investment has already led to measurable improvements in water quality and aquatic habitat, while also enhancing recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and other lakeside activities for both residents and visitors.

Results have been incredible: dissolved oxygen levels near the lake bottom have more than tripled, sediment quality has improved, and cyanobacteria levels are undetectable. With these proactive, science-based measures, Lake Elsinore is now positioned as a model for innovative lake management in California, demonstrating how local governments can protect natural resources while fostering community recreation and tourism.

"Receiving the Helen Putnam Award is a tremendous honor and a testament to the dedication, collaboration, and vision of our staff and community partners," said City Manager Jason Simpson. "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."