CVWD was formed in 1918 to protect and conserve local water sources. Since then, the district has grown into a multi-faceted agency that delivers irrigation and domestic (drinking) water, collects and recycles wastewater, provides regional storm water protection, replenishes the groundwater basin and promotes water conservation. CVWD's service area covers approximately 1,000 square miles from the San Gorgonio Pass to the Salton Sea, mostly within the Coachella Valley in Riverside County, California. The boundaries also extend into small portions of Imperial and San Diego counties. The Coachella Valley’s idyllic winters make it a popular destination for tens of thousands of seasonal visitors and part-time residents who travel here from throughout the United States and many other countries to enjoy championship-level golf, tennis, polo, swimming, hiking, spas, fine dining and upscale shopping. These vibrant industries are possible in the desert because the district has been a responsible manager of water resources since its formation in 1918.