The California Water Crisis: Oak Glen Creek Detention Basins, Yucaipa, California: ''An Integrated Approach to Watershed Management''

The three basins are designed to capture storm water in both large and small events and allow storm water infiltration into the groundwater basin and "recharge" the groundwater table. The DEA team designed the project to save some existing oak trees, while areas that were being disturbed are being planted with native materials. By planting native materials, maintenance will be minimized and habitat for wildlife will be provided. The project will include a small parking lot, recreational trails, "outdoor classrooms", educational kiosks, and scenic outlooks. The educational kiosks and signage will provide information on the "water cycle" and will help people to understand the importance of water in our environment while also educating them on how to clean up, conserve, and recycle water. The Oak Glen Creek Detention Basin Project provides an integrated approach to watershed management. By capturing storm water and allowing groundwater infiltration we can reduce downstream flooding, improve water quality, recharge the groundwater supply, and provide open space for wildlife and plant life. Allowing people to access the facility provides an opportunity to educate people on the importance of the water cycle and encourage people to set aside open space for drainage facilities in lieu of more concrete channels.