Citrus Highlands

Citrus Highlands

Citrus Highlands Irrigation Area History

In 1924, a previously existing canal irrigation district was reorganized into RWCD. RWCD provided water to the “frost-free citrus belt”, an area of few freezes which included Citrus Highlands. In the 1920s and 1930s, the citrus industry expanded throughout Mesa. Grapefruit production increased with the onset of the canned fruit juice market. World War II created a huge demand for citrus. The rise in wartime production brought workers to the area. Many of them never left. Industry flourished and the 1960s began development for our ever expanding population growth. By the 1980s, homes were being built throughout Citrus Highlands.

About our association

Citrus Highlands Today

Most people are great and their support is what keeps the water flowing. The biggest misconception irrigation users seem to have is that RWCD has something to do with our pipes and standpipes. RWCD supplies the water and charges by the half hour for it. If there is a problem, RWCD verifies it and then stops the water. You own the pipes in your yard. Mesa's Irrigation Easement requires that you maintain them. Mesa does not like irrigation water in the streets or having to send police out for irrigation related problems. In 2003, they formed the Citrus Highlands registered neighborhood to deal with these problems. Mike and I were asked to be the unpaid coordinators. We maintain, repair, and do whatever it takes to get water flowing to the appropriate place. We are RWCD's point of contact for Board 118. We also set all but one of the standpipe gates for every irrigation period.

Citrus Highlands Irrigation History

In 1924, a previously existing canal irrigation district was reorganized into RWCD. RWCD provided water to the “frost-free citrus belt”, an area of few freezes which included Citrus Highlands. In the 1920s and 1930s, the citrus industry expanded throughout Mesa. Grapefruit production increased with the onset of the canned fruit juice market. World War II created a huge demand for citrus. The rise in wartime production brought workers to the area. Many of them never left. Industry flourished and the 1960s began development for our ever expanding population growth. By the 1980s, homes were being built throughout Citrus Highlands.

Links

The Irrigation Blog