Agency Recognized for Enduring Impact on Inland Empire Youth by San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency Jul 21, 2025 Member Submitted News BEAUMONT – The SoCal STEAM Challenge has recognized the San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) for 15 years of transformative support for Inland Empire students pursuing hands-on learning in sustainability, science, and innovation. At a recent ceremony, SGPWA Board President Mickey Valdivia, Board Treasurer Robert Ybarra, and Director Sarah Wargo accepted the award on behalf of the agency, which has become a cornerstone of the region’s environmental education efforts. “Our youth are the next scientists, engineers, and leaders in our water community and beyond,” said President Valdivia. “It’s critical we show them the value of conservation and science, so they can help build a resilient future. By investing in programs like the SoCal STEAM Challenge, we’re helping students see themselves as problem-solvers and conservation champions.” SGPWA sponsors this annual hands-on competition where Inland Empire high school students design, build, and race 16-foot solar-powered boats. Held over three days at Yucaipa Regional Park, the event features endurance, slalom, and sprint races; and includes student-created public service announcements focused on water conservation. SGPWA’s support covers the cost for teams from 11 schools to compete, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to education, innovation, and sustainability in the region. The SoCal STEAM Challenge is just one of the ways SGPWA invests in local learning. The agency also partners with the Inland Empire Resource Conservation District (IERCD) to deliver dynamic water conservation programming in classrooms, at community events, and through interactive workshops. Mark your calendars! The next SoCal STEAM Challenge sets sail in May 2026, with SGPWA returning as a proud sponsor for the 16th year. Learn more at sgpwa.com. ### About San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency Formed in 1961, SGPWA is a State Water Contractor that serves a 225-square-mile area of western Riverside County. The service area includes the cities of Calimesa, Beaumont, and Banning, and the communities of Cherry Valley, Cabazon, and the Banning Bench. In addition to importing State Water Project (SWP) water from Northern California to augment local groundwater sources, the Agency builds local system infrastructure, participates in water transfers, partners in statewide water projects and collaborates on regional water reliability and conservation efforts.
