March 14, 2024
Sustainable Borrego Springs: The Role of the Stewardship Council
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Borrego Springs Unites for Sustainability
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.
Learn More About Borrego Springs
DAP Health provided free screenings and support today at Borrego Springs Community Resource Center. Visit borregocrc.org for future events.
Apply by November 15 for the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award If you’re a woman living in Borrego Springs, Warner Springs, Salton City, Ocotillo Wells, or Julian , and you are working to improve your life through education, the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award is here to support you. This grant offers $1,000–$4,000 in financial assistance to help cover education-related expenses. The deadline to apply is November 15 . About the Live Your Dream Award The Live Your Dream Award , presented by Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs , provides financial help to women who are: The primary financial support for their families Enrolled in an undergraduate or vocational training program Experiencing financial need Funds can be used for a variety of expenses, including: Tuition and school books Transportation or gas Childcare Uniforms or tools needed for school or work A previous recipient shared, “The award helped me a lot with gas money and to get uniforms and tools for school and for work.” Who Should Apply You are eligible if: You are a woman with financial need You are the main financial support for your family You are currently enrolled in a vocational training or undergraduate program You live in Borrego Springs, Warner Springs, Salton City, Ocotillo Wells, or Julian How to Apply Deadline: November 15 Apply online at: www.soroptimist.org/LYDA-apply
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Soroptimist Sylvia Maas biked 3,500 miles from Oregon to D.C. to raise scholarships for Borrego Springs High School seniors. Support the cause at Bike4BorregoKids.com.
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