Local Projects - San Bernardino Water

Enhanced Recharge Project

The Enhanced Recharge Project is designed to capture stormwater and imported water to replenish local groundwater basins. By expanding recharge basins and improving infrastructure, the project increases long-term water storage and reliability for the region. It also provides environmental benefits by restoring habitat and creating open space that supports community resilience. This project is a cornerstone of SBVWMD’s strategy to reduce reliance on imported water.

View Project Details

Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan

The Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan prepares our region for the long-term impacts of climate change, such as hotter summers, drought, and extreme weather events. The plan identifies vulnerabilities in our water system and lays out strategies to strengthen supply reliability and ecosystem health. It emphasizes collaboration with partners across the watershed to ensure equitable, science-based solutions. By planning ahead, SBVWMD is helping the region adapt to an uncertain future.

Project Details

Inland Empire Brine Line

The Inland Empire Brine Line is a regional wastewater pipeline that safely transports salty and industrial wastewater out of the Santa Ana Watershed. This critical system protects local groundwater supplies from contamination and supports economic development by allowing businesses to responsibly manage discharge. It is operated in partnership with local agencies and plays an essential role in maintaining water quality. The Brine Line ensures that our community’s drinking water sources remain safe and reliable.

Project Details

Santa Ana River Water Rights

The Santa Ana River Water Rights project secures and manages SBVWMD’s legal entitlements to water from the river. This effort helps ensure a consistent supply of water for recharge, storage, and delivery to the communities we serve. It also supports regional agreements that balance urban water use with environmental stewardship. By protecting these rights, SBVWMD safeguards a key source of local water reliability.

Project Details

Watershed Connect

Watershed Connect is a regional collaboration platform that brings together water agencies, nonprofits, and communities to advance conservation and restoration. The initiative promotes science-based decision-making and shares data and resources to improve the health of the Santa Ana Watershed. It also serves as a hub for public education and engagement on water sustainability. Through this project, SBVWMD strengthens partnerships to address challenges that cross city and county lines.

Project Details

Sunrise Ranch Master Plan

The Sunrise Ranch Master Plan is a long-term planning effort to guide the sustainable use and development of District-owned land in the region. The plan will explore opportunities for groundwater recharge, habitat restoration, and recreational space that benefit both people and the environment. By carefully balancing conservation with community needs, the project helps maximize the value of this resource. It is an example of SBVWMD’s commitment to thoughtful, future-focused planning.

Project Details

Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO)

Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO) uses advanced weather forecasting and modeling to improve how water is stored and released from local reservoirs. By combining science and technology, the project allows agencies to capture more water during wet years while reducing flood risks. This innovative approach enhances water supply reliability and protects downstream communities. FIRO demonstrates how smart operations can make existing infrastructure more resilient to climate extremes.

Project Details

Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP)

The Upper Santa Ana River Habitat Conservation Plan, also known as the Upper SAR HCP, is a regional, comprehensive program that provides a framework to protect, enhance, and restore the habitat for the Covered Species, while streamlining permitting for Covered Activities.

Habitat Conservation Plan