Sustainable Borrego Springs: The Role of the Stewardship Council

In the heart of Borrego Springs, a collective commitment to a sustainable future has brought together diverse voices under the banner of the Borrego Valley Stewardship Council (BVSC). This council, formed in 2014, stands as a testament to the community's dedication to addressing pressing local issues, such as water conservation, air quality, and economic growth, all through the lens of geotourism.

The Stewardship Council's Vision:

• Community Engagement: Convening diverse community voices to address Borrego Springs’ most critical issues.

• Sustainability Goals: Enhancing the viability of Borrego Springs as a vibrant, resilient desert community.

• Geotourism: Promoting sustainable tourism that appreciates and preserves the unique geographical character of Borrego Springs.

Key Initiatives and Achievements:

• Educational Programs: Partnering with the Borrego Village Association to develop the Interpretive Host Program, offering training for tourism workers and high school coursework for students to become Certified Interpretive Guides.

• Water Sustainability: Direct involvement in forming the Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) and developing a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) in response to SGMA legislation, aiming for a 75% reduction in water use by 2040.

• Integrated Planning: Facilitating integrated planning efforts to align groundwater management with land use, economic development, and community resilience, leading towards a sustainable future for Borrego Springs.

Challenges and Responses:

• Public Perception: Combating negative perceptions of Borrego Springs as a "dying community" by redefining it as a phoenix rising from adversity.

• Community Engagement in GSP Development: Ensuring community input in the GSP development process, setting a precedent for transparent and inclusive planning.

The Road Ahead:

• Interim Watermaster Board: Establishing governance and community representation to manage water resources effectively under the stipulated agreement awaiting DWR review.

• Community Plan Update: Collaborating with San Diego County to update Borrego’s Community Plan, integrating water management, economic development, and climate resilience into a cohesive vision for Borrego Springs.

The Borrego Valley Stewardship Council embodies the spirit of unity and perseverance, guiding Borrego Springs towards a future where sustainability and community thrive hand in hand.