Request for Public Feedback
The Borrego Valley Stewardship Council is proud to present the “Borrego Springs Environmental & Community Resiliency White Paper” for public review and comment. This comprehensive document represents the culmination of extensive research, community engagement, and expert analysis conducted as part of the Proposition 68 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act Implementation Grant.
About This White Paper
This white paper outlines a sustainable and resilient planning framework for current and future development in Borrego Springs, factoring in critical environmental, socioeconomic, and infrastructure constraints specific to our unique desert community. It serves as a vital resource for community members, policymakers, and governing bodies to better understand the specific qualities and characteristics of Borrego Springs as we work toward implementing the state’s Groundwater Sustainability Plan requirements.
Key components of the white paper include:
- A thorough review of Borrego Springs’ basin characteristics, community fabric, and natural resources
- Findings from global scientific resources, local academic institutes, and environmental professionals
- Results from community surveys and engagement gathered from 2019-2025
- A framework to inform future iterations of the County of San Diego’s General Plan and updates to the 2011 Borrego Springs Community Plan
Why We’re Seeking Your Feedback
As pioneers in groundwater management—Borrego Water District was the first in California to file a Groundwater Sustainability Plan for their aquifer in compliance with the state’s 2014 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act—we understand the importance of community input in creating effective, sustainable policies.
Your expertise and experiences can help ensure our planning efforts:
- Address the most pressing environmental and community challenges
- Consider diverse perspectives across our community
- Balance water sustainability with community development needs
- Create a resilient framework that will serve Borrego Springs for generations to come
How to Provide Feedback
- Download the PDF using the link below
- Review the white paper at your convenience
- Submit your comments via email to Howard Blackson at [email protected]
We are particularly interested in your thoughts on:
- The comprehensive analysis of our water sustainability challenges and proposed solutions
- The assessment of environmental challenges facing our desert ecosystem
- The socioeconomic factors and community planning recommendations
- The infrastructure and public facilities analysis
- Any additional perspectives that should be considered in our planning process
Timeline
We will be collecting feedback until April 15, 2025, after which we plan to incorporate your insights into a revised version of the paper that will inform future planning decisions.
Thank you for contributing to this collaborative effort. Your input is invaluable in ensuring Borrego Springs continues to thrive as a model of sustainability and resilience for arid communities throughout the Southwest.
Download the appendices and figures: