Two notable milestones were marked by the San Bernardino Municipal Water Department (SBMWD) celebrating 120 years of trusted, quality water and sewer services and the dedication of the Tertiary Treatment System.
“These milestones mark two significant achievements that stand on their own yet are deeply connected. One represents our history celebrating 120 years of service and the other charts our path forward with recycled water,” said Miguel J. Guerrero, general manager. “The launch of the Tertiary Treatment System is a key piece to strengthening our region’s water supply and the next step in a long tradition of adaptation, progress and service to this community.”
The Water Board, city leaders and regional partners came together on December 11 to highlight the Department’s fascinating history as well as the future of recycled water in the region. “We are celebrating something truly special,” said San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran. “From our city’s early days, when citrus groves, railroads and opportunity first put San Bernardino on the map, the water department has been here. Its history is woven into the very foundation of who we are as a city.”
When the water department was established in 1905, San Bernardino was a small but growing community with a one square mile service area and a population of about 6,000. Today, the service area is about 45 square miles with a population of approximately 215,000. Through the years, SBMWD has successfully met the needs of the city with a sustainable supply of this precious resource by prioritizing innovative projects such as the Tertiary Treatment System which provides recycled water to the Water Reclamation Plant thereby increasing efficiency, reducing utility costs and saving water.
The department has had a storied history of fighting for local control of water rights as well as protecting the health and welfare of residents by filing an historic action against the federal government for the remediation of groundwater contamination at a U.S. Army site during World War II resulting in an operating Consent Decree. It is a fascinating chronicle of events documented in “A History of the San Bernardino Municipal Water Department Celebrating 120 Years of Visionary Leadership and Service in the San Bernardino Valley” written by Jeff Crider. The book was presented at the celebration and will be sent to library archives for historical documentation. “The book beautifully illustrates the decades of ingenuity and dedication that shaped this utility,” said Guerrero. “It serves as a historical record, but also a tribute to the enduring spirit of San Bernardino and those who have worked tirelessly to ensure water remains accessible, sustainable and protected.”
Water Board President Toni Callicott noted that the focus of the Department is always on the future. “Maximizing sustainability is a key part of responsible stewardship,” said Callicott. “The Tertiary Treatment System is a great example of how the water department enhances local water supply. I would like to thank our employees, city leaders, partners and residents for supporting the Department’s efforts to build a bright future.”
About San Bernardino Municipal Water Department
Established by the City of San Bernardino Charter in 1905, the San Bernardino Municipal Water Department is a municipal water and sewer utility serving a population of more than 215,000, encompassing a 45 square mile area of the City of San Bernardino and surrounding communities. SBMWD provides water reclamation services for the cities of San Bernardino and Loma Linda and sewer collection services for the City of San Bernardino and neighboring communities. For over a century, SBMWD has been committed to providing quality water and wastewater services by meeting the needs of the community in a transparent, environmentally responsible and efficient manner. Please visit SBMWD.org for more information.