CONSERVATION CORNER

OCTOBER WAS VERY WET!
BUT IS IT THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF THE CURRENT DROUGHT?

First, the good news. The rain gauge at Big Bear Dam recorded 17.08 inches of precipitation in October. This is the wettest October since record keeping began in 1884. The second wettest October was in 1889 with 14.20 inches. These are the only two Octobers when greater than 10 inches of precipitation were recorded. So, keep your fingers crossed and hope that this winter remains wet.

While this all sounds good, it's all about recharging Big Bear Valley's parched aquifers. For this to happen, we will need several months of above average precipitation. Even then, sufficient recharge may not occur until we have had several consecutive wet winters. The best plan is for the community to continue improving everyone's water-use efficiency. We succeeded in making great strides this past summer and should continue this progress for several years to come. Efficient use of water hurts no one, is cost effective, and improves the community's self sufficiency. Please find ways that you can contribute to the valley-wide conservation effort.

Back