press release

July 6, 2004

Sweetwater Lake Opens July 25

SPRING VALLEY- Anglers will be welcome at Sweetwater Reservoir on Sunday, July 25, 2004, and on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays for the foreseeable future, according to an announcement made today by Sweetwater Authority, the public water agency that owns and operates the reservoir to provide drinking water for the downstream communities of Chula Vista, National City and Bonita. The project, which was designed and constructed by Sweetwater Authority, received additional funding through Federal, State, and County grants obtained with the support of Congressman Duncan Hunter, former Senator Steve Peace, and County Supervisors Greg Cox and Ron Roberts.

Shoreline fishing will be allowed along a 2.5-mile stretch on the south side of Sweetwater Reservoir from sunrise to sunset three days per week. Fees are $5 for adults, $2 for children under 16, and $3 per car for nonfishing day-use. Anglers must comply with California Fish and Game regulations for licensing and catch limits, as well as rules posted at the site. Facilities include parking, portable rest rooms and trash facilities. Access to the reservoir is via San Miguel Road in Bonita, near Sweetwater Summit Park, which is owned and operated by the County of San Diego.

"Sweetwater Authority's first priority is, and always will be, providing first-quality drinking water to its customers," said General Manager Dennis Bostad. "Anglers and other visitors will be asked to respect the reservoir's water supply and environmental values, as well as its recreational value."

Bostad remarked that the project was the fulfillment of many years of concerted effort among wildlife agencies, drinking water agencies, concerned stakeholders and municipalities. He expressed appreciation for the protection provided by the regulations. "I am convinced that our plans and facilities were improved by the reviews and requirements put in place by the regulatory community. The process has enhanced the protection of both the water supply and the native environment that is unique to Sweetwater Reservoir," he said.

"We are thrilled to open this project," said Board Chairman Jim Doud, Sr. "It is possible only because we had such broad regional support for its value to the region and surrounding communities."

Sweetwater Authority anticipates there will be extremely high demand for the fishing program during its first few weeks. For that reason, all parking at the Sweetwater Reservoir Fishing Facility through Labor Day will be by pre-authorized entrance pass only, and limited to the first 155 parties (1 vehicle per party) each day the program is open. Very limited RV parking is available.

Parking passes may be obtained (in person only) at 505 Garrett Avenue, from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays starting July 19, and will be limited to one per person per week. If demand continues to be higher than parking availability, pre-authorization may be continued past Labor Day. Up-to-date ticket information will be maintained at www.sweetwater.org and at 619.409.6777.

-END-