What We Do
Formed in 1954, San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District is a regional agency responsible for long-term water supply planning in the San Bernardino Valley. The District imports water through the State Water Project and manages groundwater storage within its service area. Established under the Municipal Water District Act of 1911, San Bernardino Valley has broad authority related to water and related services including providing supplemental imported water to the retail agencies when available and requested, serves as the court appointed Watermaster for the 1969 judgements and serves as a groundwater manager for the San Bernardino Basin Area.
Our Priorities
Powering Local Water Delivery
We don’t deliver water directly to homes or businesses. Instead, we support 15 water retailers — including cities, utilities, and mutual water companies — who serve neighborhoods across the San Bernardino valley, Yucaipa valley and beyond.
- 15 retail agencies
- Over 700,000 residents supported
Timeline
Strengthening the region’s water supply and management to support long-term sustainability.
1954
A District is Born
Voters approved the creation of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District to secure supplemental water for the growing Inland Empire.
1960s
Building the Foundation
The District signed a long-term contract with the State of California for Feather River water, now part of the State Water Project. Landmark legal settlements in 1969 established rules for sharing groundwater and Santa Ana River flows.
1970s
First Deliveries of State Water
Imported water began arriving through the State Water Project. Regional collaboration grew with the formation of the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA) in 1975.
1980s
Regional Planning & New Facilities
Partnerships expanded with local agencies to tackle high groundwater issues and develop recycled water solutions. The Seven Oaks Dam was approved, reshaping regional flood control and water supply planning.
1990s
Expanding Reliability
The District invested in new pipelines, the Baseline Feeder, and agreements with neighboring agencies. The process for pursuing Santa Ana River water rights began, laying the groundwork for future recharge and conservation.
2000s
Integrated Regional Planning
The District led the development of an Integrated Regional Water Management Plan with 17 agencies, launched major infrastructure expansions, and advanced environmental stewardship projects.
2010s
Facing Drought with Innovation
The District spearheaded drought-response education campaigns, advanced habitat conservation planning, and invested in recycled water studies to enhance sustainability.
2020s
Today and Beyond
With historic recharge years, acquisition of Sunrise Ranch, and a new Strategic Plan, the District is shaping the future through climate adaptive water supply projects, native ecosystem protection and regional partnerships to ensure a resilient water supply for generations to come.
353
Square Miles
15
Water Retailers Served
700,000
Residents Served
42
Miles of Pipeline
Open Data, Public Oversight
We’re committed to transparency. Our planning documents, board decisions, and infrastructure investments are available to the public — because trust starts with access.
