All of these dynamic geological events have played major roles in shaping the valley, catching and storing crucial water, helping determine the variety of plants and animals present.

The San Bernardino Valley once supported permanently flowing creeks, springs, and marshy wetlands.

The dependable source of water and grass made the area not only invaluable to a huge diversity of fish and wildlife, but also a center of human activity for centuries.

With expanding settlement beginning in the late 19th century came farming, mining, and livestock production, all of which competed for the same precious water.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.