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1. 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

2. How do I contact a specific DWP employee?

Visit the Staff Directory for department and staff contact information.

3. When are the DWP Board meetings? May I attend the meetings?

Meetings of the DWP Board of Commissioners are on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. in the Board Room at 41972 Garstin Drive, Big Bear Lake. Yes, public comments are welcomed and encouraged. Visit the Board page for more information on the DWP Board and to access agendas and minutes.