Deputy Director Gerald Meral will discuss the Bay Delta Conservation Plan

ONTARIO, Calif. (Aug. 19, 2010) — The Building Industry Association (BIA) Baldy View Chapter is pleased to announce that Gerald Meral Ph.D., Deputy Director of the California Natural Resources Agency, will headline the fifth annual San Bernardino County Water Conference as the keynote speaker. The conference will take place Friday, August 26 from 8a.m. to 12p.m. at the Ontario DoubleTree Hotel.

“Planning for future water supply and sustainability is critical to the growth and prosperity of our state and to those that reside here,” said Dr. Meral. “I look forward to attending the San Bernardino County Water Conference and creating dialogue that will help us identify ways to restore the delicate ecosystem in the Delta and provide water for all Californians.”

The theme of this year’s conference is “Collaborating to Meet Water Demands Today, Tomorrow and the Future.” In addition to Dr. Meral’s address, the conference will feature a Q&A format where panelists from private industries, water agencies and county government will outline ways they are dealing with water accessibility challenges.

“This year’s theme is timely because the above average rain season gives us the opportunity to discuss what to do with those resources,” said Carlos Rodriguez, BIA Baldy View Chapter CEO.  “We are excited to have Dr. Meral speak to us about the Bay Delta conservation plan, its implementation and what it will mean for our region.”

Dr. Meral was appointed Natural Resources Agency deputy secretary for the Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP) on Jan. 19, 2011. Dr. Meral will be charged with guiding completion of the BDCP to restore the Bay-Delta ecosystem and create water supply reliability for California. In addition, he will also be responsible for the development of any revenue and funding proposals necessary to complete the plan.

The conference is being hosted by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chair Josie Gonzales, San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Vice-Chairman Brad Mitzelfelt and the BIA Baldy View Chapter. To purchase tickets, or inquire about sponsorship, please call Nicole Desmond at (909)795-7760. Attendance is $85 per person, which includes a continental breakfast.  For more information, please visit www.sbcwater.com.