MSWD Celebrates 70 Years with Community Event

Award-winning MSWD water served at event

DESERT HOT SPRINGS — Local business leaders, members of the public, and elected officials gathered Friday to celebrate Mission Springs Water District’s 70th anniversary. The family-friendly event, which took place at Mission Springs Park in Desert Hot Springs, featured more than 20 community partner tables, food trucks/vendors, a local DJ, a fun photo booth, a Mariachi band, and of course, MSWD’s award-winning water.

A short program featured Congressman Raul Ruiz, Desert Hot Springs Mayor Scott Matas, MSWD Board President Russ Martin, and MSWD General Manager Arden Wallum.

During his remarks, President Martin stressed the importance of the district’s service to the local community. “By maximizing resources, improving wastewater treatment, and protecting groundwater supplies, Mission Springs Water District will ensure a great-tasting, high-quality, sustainable water supply now and for future generations.”

He also thanked the community for its partnership, “Together, we will pave the way for another 70 years of great-tasting Mission Springs Water.”

Seventy years ago, on Feb. 3, 1953, citizens of the region voted to create a county water district with a vote of 246 to 9. The new district began with 100,000 feet of pipelines, five water wells, and two reservoirs. It covered just one square mile.

The district later changed its name to Mission Springs Water District and expanded rapidly. It absorbed parts of the Coachella Valley County Water District, the West Palm Springs Village, and San Gorgonio Mutual Water Company systems. Today, MSWD boasts more than 1.25 million feet of pipelines, 14 water wells, and 24 reservoirs, serving an area of 135 square miles.

To learn more about the rich history of MSWD, please visit www.mswd.org/history.

 

Photo caption above: The event speakers stopped for a quick photo following the program. Left to right, MSWD General Manager Arden Wallum, MSWD Board President Russ Martin, Congressman Raul Ruiz, Desert Hot Springs Mayor Scott Matas.