Why did BBARWA investigate a groundwater recharge program?
The Big Bear Valley currently draws all drinking water from an underground aquifer a fragile and limited supply which is replenished by rain and snowmelt. Although rain and snow levels vary widely, water use steadily increases each year. With recurrent droughts, our aquifers limited supply cannot accommodate present trends and demand. With lake water not available and importing water a difficult and expensive task due to our location in the mountains, local agencies began to examine other alternatives. Groundwater recharge is proving to be a promising and cost-effective alternative.
