What if Tehachapi once had a path to true water independence? In this episode of Follow the Water, we uncover the story of the IPR project—a long-planned, state-approved solution that promised stability and sustainability for Tehachapi's water. Former Development Services Director Jay Schlosser walks us through how the project worked, why it mattered, and how political gridlock and shifting decisions ultimately stopped it in its tracks.

Narrated by Key Budge, Community Engagement Director.
Written, produced, and edited by Mya Acosta, Community Engagement Specialist. Featuring interviews and insights from Jay Schlosser, Executive Director of the Kern Council of Governments

In this episode of "Follow the Water," we highlight your local water provider, and if you live in Tehachapi proper, that's the City of Tehachapi's Water Department.

Join us as Public Works Director Tyler Napier explains how the department maintains the city's water infrastructure, manages conservation efforts, and upholds its commitment to responsible water stewardship. You'll also hear from JR Aguirre, Water Division Supervisor, on the hands-on work that keeps our community's most essential resource moving.

Narrated by Key Budge, Community Engagement Director.
Written, produced, and edited by Mya Acosta, Community Engagement Specialist.
Featuring interviews and insights from Tyler Napier and JR Aguirre of the City of Tehachapi's Public Works Department.

Have you ever wondered who owns the water that comes out of your tap? In this episode of "Follow the Water," we're breaking down important terms you'll need to know as we continue our story. We explain what exactly an "acre-foot" is, what water rights are, and the complicated nature of water banking.

For more information about Tehachapi's water, visit: https://liveuptehachapi.com/553/Tehachapis-Water

This series is narrated by Key Budge, Community Engagement Director for the City of Tehachapi, and produced and edited by Mya Acosta, Community Engagement Specialist for the City of Tehachapi.

Information and interviews are provided by Don Marsh, Development Services Director for the City of Tehachapi and the California Department of Water Resources.