The Sterling Natural Resource Center Recycled its ‘First Drop’ of Water, A Significant Milestone in Initiating Operations

The Sterling Natural Resource Center Recycled its ‘First Drop’ of Water, A Significant Milestone in Initiating Operations

Highland, Calif., January 16, 2024—East Valley Water District has begun operations at the Sterling Natural Resource Center (SNRC), a state-of-the-art reclamation facility and community center that will recycle up to 8 million gallons of wastewater per day. The first indirect potable reuse project in the region will replenish the local groundwater basin that is at historic low levels and is the source of water for approximately 650,000 people. A significant milestone in operations was reached with the SNRC officially recycling its ‘first drop’ of water. 

The SNRC broke ground in October 2018, paving the pathway to a water resilient future by creating a new, sustainable source of water for the community. The new treatment plant, community center, recharge basins and pipelines were fast-tracked using a design-build delivery method. The community has widely supported the project that will be net-zero energy when fully operational. 

The SNRC’s Administrative Center, located on the western portion, was completed in July 2022 and includes a customer service center, banquet hall for special events and meetings, and demonstration garden displaying water-efficient landscape. 

“While small in size, this first water drop presents a big milestone for our community and region,” said Michael Moore, General Manager/CEO. “Years of planning, design, construction, and testing come to fruition with this water drop. East Valley Water District is now ready to recycle wastewater and create a sustainable future for generations to come.” 

“The Sterling Natural Resource Center was built on the commitment of improving quality of life and making every source a resource,” said James Morales Jr., Chairman of the East Valley Water District Board. “This investment was a bold move for the District and today we celebrate this major achievement for our customers.” 

An official ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the SNRC’s plant operation is scheduled for Friday, May 3, 2024. Community members are invited to join the celebration and learn about the facility. 

The Sterling Natural Resource Center is a $250 million project funded by a variety of sources. Low interest loans, grants, and regional infrastructure partnerships have been provided in full or in part by the Proposition 1 - the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, Urban Greening Grant, and San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District- Regional Recycled Water Program. 

For information about East Valley Water District and the Sterling Natural Resource Center, visit eastvalley.org/SNRC.