#USA #Cadiz #San Bernardino #San Bernardino Valley #Fontana Water

Tackling Contamination in the San Bernardino Valley

On September 5, 2025, a groundbreaking agreement was announced between the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District, Fontana Water Company (FWC), and Cadiz Inc. This partnership aims to address the pressing issue of perchlorate contamination within the Rialto-Colton Groundwater Basin while also initiating a wider regional effort to enhance groundwater banking and water quality. The introduction of advanced treatment technology signifies a shift in how local agencies can collaborate for sustainable water management.

The Initiative Behind the Partnership

The primary goal of this innovative partnership is to support the proposed Cactus Basins Recharge Program. This initiative is essential for expanding groundwater replenishment efforts in San Bernardino County, especially given the looming challenges posed by climate change and variability in water supply deliveries. By implementing specialized water filtration systems designed by Cadiz at Fontana’s facilities, the partners are taking proactive measures to ensure that any potential migration of perchlorate contamination is effectively mitigated when the Cactus Basins Recharge Program begins operations. This proactive approach underscores a commitment to improving long-term water quality and supply reliability in the region.

Leadership Comments on the Collaboration

Heather Dyer, the CEO of San Bernardino Valley, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership's potential to address long-standing contamination issues while simultaneously improving water supply. "The Cactus Basins Recharge Program is a critical part of our strategy to enhance water supply reliability for the San Bernardino Valley," she stated. Dyer emphasized that collaboration between public and private sectors is essential for achieving sustainable groundwater management across Southern California, setting a precedent for future initiatives.

In a similar vein, Susan Kennedy, CEO of Cadiz, highlighted that the deployment of cost-effective advanced treatment technology could unlock affordable water supplies for the entire region. This sentiment reflects a growing awareness of the need for innovative solutions to complex water resource challenges.

Marty Zvirbulis, FWC's Vice President, further echoed this sentiment, noting that collaborative regional approaches are vital for maintaining affordability and addressing water resource issues efficiently. This new strategy not only addresses immediate contamination concerns but also integrates various water supply resources and groundwater banks across the region, fostering a more resilient water infrastructure.

The Broader Context of Water Security

San Bernardino County faces increasing risks to its long-term water security due to both physical and climate-related challenges. Additionally, the unpredictability in State Water Project (SWP) deliveries compounds the difficulties of sustainably replenishing groundwater resources. Recognizing these challenges, the county is actively endorsing local efforts to develop a coordinated approach to water infrastructure investment, focusing on maximizing local water reuse, cleaning impaired groundwater, and lessening dependency on imported water.

As part of this strategy, San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District has been investing in local water supply infrastructures, including various storage and recharge projects. This integrative approach aims to improve resilience to drought, maximize the benefits of imported water during wet years, and ensure equitable access to clean water for all communities served by the district.

Looking Ahead: The Cactus Basins Recharge Program

The Cactus Basins Recharge Program serves as a cornerstone of this collaborative effort. The program aims to utilize imported State Water Project (SWP) water for recharging the Rialto-Colton groundwater subbasin, ultimately allowing wells in the area to withdraw groundwater and enhance potable water supplies throughout the San Bernardino Valley service area. However, the planning phase has faced obstacles due to concerns regarding the potential migration of contaminants to existing wells. This partnership seeks to overcome those challenges through innovative solutions, ensuring that water quality and supply are prioritized.

In conclusion, the collaboration between San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District, Fontana Water Company, and Cadiz Inc. is a promising development in the ongoing quest for sustainable water resource management. As California continues to grapple with unprecedented water challenges, such innovative partnerships may serve as a model for other regions facing similar issues, ultimately benefitting communities and enhancing overall water security.