If you’re curious about water in the Coachella Valley and ever wondered how it travels from deep underground to your faucet, then Water Counts Academy is for you.

The academy kicks off on Jan. 30. The deadline to apply is Friday, Jan. 12.

The program is put on by CV Water Counts, a collaboration of six local water agencies including Desert Water Agency.

The five-week comprehensive program is designed to educate local leaders and community members on local and statewide water issues.

Topics to be covered by subject matter experts include:

  • Groundwater management, conservation & imported water
  • Climate change & regional planning efforts
  • Water quality and regulations
  • Recycled water programs
  • Salton Sea management

Academy classes are held once a week, over the course of 5 weeks. The first four classes are on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at UCR Palm Desert on January 30, February 6, 13, and 20. The last class on Saturday, March 2 will be a half-day morning tour across the Coachella Valley so students can see water facilities up close.

Participants must attend all five classes to receive a certificate. The academy is free. Food and refreshments will be provided at each class.

For more info or to apply, go to www.cvwatercounts.com/academy