San Gorgonio Pass Cutting Ribbon on New Heli-Hydrant by San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency Jun 10, 2025 Member Submitted News CABAZON — Last summer, San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency (SGPWA) joined forces with local agencies to coordinate the critical Heli-Hydrant project. Thanks to the leadership of Fifth District Supervisor Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved $1.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to install six Heli-Hydrant locations on both sides of Interstate 10. The first of the series of Heli-Hydrants in the area is now complete. Firefighting helicopters can refill water from these strategically located water tanks to quickly control blazes. Originally developed by retired firefighter Mark Whaling, this life-saving investment protects our high fire-risk community. A June 12 ceremony will celebrate the project’s partners, including Riverside County Fire, Cal Fire, Beaumont Cherry Valley Water District, City of Banning, High Valleys Water District, Banning Heights Mutual Water Company and Cabazon Water District. Riverside County Fifth District Supervisor Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez, SGPWA Board of Directors and staff, Cal Fire representatives, and other local leaders will address the community.
