The California Rural Water Association (CRWA) named Royce Shields, Head Operator at the Herlong Public Utility District in Southern Lassen County, as their 2026 Wastewater Operator of the Year. 

Royce Shields was honored for his outstanding commitment to maintaining infrastructure and ensuring public health in the rural, disadvantaged community of Herlong.  He received his award at the CRWA annual awards banquet held at the CRWA Expo in South Lake Tahoe.