Why are you called the Department of Water and Power when you provide water service only?

Our name was established during the 1985 negotiations for the purchase of the Big Bear water and electric systems owned by Southern California Water Company. When the negotiations were finalized in 1989, only the water system was purchased. However, the name had already been formally established on all legal documents as the City of Big Bear Lake, Department of Water and Power (DWP). Additionally, final negotiations resulted in a service area that extends beyond the City of Big Bear Lake boundaries. Electric service is provided by Bear Valley Electric Service (a division of Golden State Water Company).

The DWP provides water service to approximately 15,520 water customers throughout the Bear Valley in the following areas:

  • Big Bear Lake, including Moonridge
  • Fawnskin
  • Big Bear Shores RV Park
  • A portion of Whispering Forest (along Division Drive)
  • Northern section of Erwin Lake
  • Sugarloaf
  • Lake William

Show All Answers

1. Why are you called the Department of Water and Power when you provide water service only?
2. How do I contact a specific DWP employee?
3. When are the DWP Board meetings? May I attend the meetings?