San Bernardino County Drought Information

Background and Purpose

This initiative is in response to Senate Bill (SB) 552, enacted in September 2021, which mandates all California counties to improve drought and water shortage preparedness for State Small Water Systems and Domestic Wells within their jurisdiction. The legislation requires counties to:

1. Establish a standing Drought and Water Shortage Task Force
2. Develop a County Drought Resilience Plan

SB 552’s primary objective is to create a collaborative framework for state and local governments to share responsibility in preparing for and responding to water shortage events. This coordinated effort aims to enhance Californians’ ability to manage future droughts and mitigate severe impacts on drinking water supplies, particularly for communities in vulnerable areas.

San Bernardino County Drought Resilience Plan

The San Bernardino County DRP will address the diverse range of risks faced by Domestic Well and State Small Water System users in our region. Key components of the plan include:

• County-specific response actions during drought or water shortage conditions
• Water system-specific strategies tailored to affected residents’ needs
• Utilization of the California Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) tools and resources

To support the development of our County DRP, San Bernardino County has secured Direct Technical Assistance through DWR’s County Drought Resilience Planning Assistance Program. This support will aid in preparing a robust plan aligned with DWR’s County Drought Resilience Plan Guidebook and Water Shortage Vulnerability Tool.

Drought and Water Shortage Task Force

As mandated by California Water Code Section 10609.70, San Bernardino County will establish a standing Drought and Water Shortage Task Force. This task force will include representatives from:

• State and local governments
• Groundwater sustainability agencies
• Community-based organizations
• Local water suppliers
• Local residents