The U.S. Forest Service orders BlueTriton to cease operations. This decision terminates a nearly 100-year-old water extraction practice.
BlueTriton must remove all equipment from San Bernardino National Forest. Will this mark the end of Arrowhead’s iconic mountain spring water?
Environmental Victory: Strawberry Creek Flows Again
Activists celebrate the Forest Service’s decision as a major win. Amanda Frye, a local campaigner, hopes for Strawberry Creek’s restoration.
The creek’s western fork has dwindled to mere puddles in recent years. Can nature reclaim what humans have exploited for decades?
Tribal Waters: San Manuel Band’s Stake
BlueTriton claims the decision negatively impacts the San Manuel tribe. The tribe allegedly uses part of the pipeline water for various needs.
This includes crucial firefighting resources in the drought-prone region. How will the tribe adapt to this sudden change in water access?
$2,500 Annual Fee: Water’s True Cost
The Forest Service charged BlueTriton a mere $2,500 yearly permit fee. Surprisingly, the company paid nothing for the water itself.
In 2023, about 104 million gallons flowed through the pipes. What’s the real value of this natural resource?
Legal Battle Brews: BlueTriton Challenges Denial
BlueTriton contests the Forest Service’s decision in court. The company argues the denial lacks legal merit.
They claim scientific studies show no negative environmental impact. Will the courts side with corporate interests or environmental concerns?
State Regulators: Unauthorized Water Diversions Exposed
California officials found BlueTriton lacking valid water rights. The State Water Resources Control Board ordered a halt to “unauthorized diversions.”
This decision followed a lengthy investigation prompted by public complaints. How long has this water extraction been potentially illegal?
Mountain Springs to Plastic Bottles: A Controversial Journey
The Arrowhead Springs, named after a distinctive rock formation, have a rich history. Commercial water facilities in the area date back to 1929.
BlueTriton’s 4.5-mile pipeline transported water to a bottling plant. Will consumers miss this “100% Mountain Spring Water”?
Forest Service’s Ultimatum: 7 Days to Comply
Officials ordered BlueTriton to stop using the pipeline within a week. The company must block or sever pipes at twelve different sites.
A three-month deadline looms for complete infrastructure removal. Can a century of operations be dismantled so quickly?
Transparency Issues: Where Did the Water Go?
Forest Service cited BlueTriton’s lack of transparency as a concern. Reports showed 94-98% of water went to an inoperative hotel property.
The company failed to explain the destination of millions of monthly gallons. What secrets lie behind this water’s journey?
Future of Bottled Water: Industry Under Scrutiny
This case may set a precedent for bottled water operations nationwide. The $170 billion global bottled water market faces increasing environmental scrutiny.
Consumer awareness about water sources is growing. Will other iconic water brands face similar challenges?
