Cadiz Partners with Water Districts to Address Perchlorate Contamination in San Bernardino County

Cadiz Partners to Combat Perchlorate Contamination in San Bernardino County

Cadiz Inc. forges a significant partnership with the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District and Fontana Water Company (FWC) to tackle perchlorate contamination in the Rialto-Colton Groundwater Basin. This collaboration, announced on September 5, 2025, is a vital component of the Cactus Basins Recharge Program, designed to enhance groundwater replenishment and water quality in the region. The initiative signifies a proactive step towards addressing both environmental contamination and the pressing issue of water scarcity in San Bernardino County.

As part of the agreement, Cadiz’s subsidiary, ATEC Water Systems, is set to provide specialized water filtration systems to FWC’s facilities for the treatment of perchlorates. This technology aims to mitigate the legacy of perchlorate pollution, which poses risks to public health and the environment. Heather Dyer, CEO of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District, underscores the significance of the Cactus Basins Recharge Program, noting its role in improving water supply reliability while simultaneously confronting the challenges posed by historical contamination. The partnership represents a comprehensive strategy for restoring the integrity of local water resources.

Cadiz's CEO, Susan Kennedy, emphasizes the innovative nature of this collaboration, highlighting the potential of advanced treatment technologies to unlock cost-effective water supplies for the region. This partnership not only addresses environmental concerns but also strives to secure essential water resources for the communities that depend on the Rialto-Colton Groundwater Basin. By prioritizing sustainability and collaboration, this initiative sets a benchmark for future efforts aimed at enhancing water quality and reliability in water-scarce areas.

In addition to advancing local water quality, the partnership showcases a commitment to collaborative sustainability efforts. The broader 200,000 acre-foot water supply agreement signed in 2024 between Cadiz and FWC acts as a foundation for this initiative, further reinforcing the importance of strategic alliances in addressing water resource challenges. This forward-thinking approach not only mitigates contamination but also ensures that vital water supplies are safeguarded for future generations.

The collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Cadiz and its partners, as they navigate the complexities of environmental remediation while enhancing water supply reliability. By leveraging advanced filtration technology and fostering partnerships, the companies contribute to a sustainable future for San Bernardino County's water resources.