The American Public Works Association, Inland Empire Section’s Board of Directors selected San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District’s Plunge Creek Conservation Project as the organization’s Water Supply Protection and Enhancement Project of the Year.
The project was honored for preserving natural resources for the community, establishing a model for collaborative habitat conservation programs, and enhancing recharge to help boost local groundwater storage.
The project is a part of the broader Upper Santa Ana River Wash Plan, which allows for the ongoing expansion of sensitive habitat areas and water conservation, while establishing appropriate areas for: (1) mining operations that provide $36 million in payroll annually to the region, (2) enhanced water recharge to boost the regional water supply, (3) construction of transportation upgrades and a new trail system.