IID to Host Inaugural State of the District Celebration Nov. 19
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The Imperial Irrigation District will host its inaugural State of the District Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 19, at its headquarters in Imperial, offering residents an opportunity to learn about the agency’s history, operations, and ongoing efforts to provide water and electricity to communities across the Imperial and Coachella valleys.
The free public event will begin at 4:30 p.m. at IID headquarters, 333 E. Barioni Blvd., followed by a State of the District presentation at 5:30 p.m. The celebration will include historical displays, interactive exhibits, equipment demonstrations, food, and activities highlighting the district’s services and infrastructure.
According to IID, the event is intended to provide customers and community members with a closer look at the agency’s daily operations while recognizing the employees and generations of residents who have contributed to its development.
“This celebration is about the people and communities that have shaped IID for generations,” IID Board Chairwoman Karin Eugenio said. “We want our customers and families to come out, meet our employees, learn more about the work that goes into providing water and power every day, and celebrate the history we all share. IID belongs to the community, and this is an opportunity to celebrate that together.”
The celebration coincides with several historical milestones, including 125 years of water in the Imperial Valley, 90 years of public power, 60 years of Dippy Duck, the district’s water safety mascot, and the 115th anniversary of IID.
Established in 1911, IID has played a central role in the development of the Imperial Valley through the management of irrigation water and electrical infrastructure supporting agricultural production, residential communities, and regional economic activity.
During the event, visitors will have opportunities to explore displays featuring IID’s water delivery systems, electrical operations, environmental programs, and customer services.
The district is also developing a historical exhibition featuring photographs, maps, artifacts, and other materials documenting significant developments throughout its history.
IID departments are preparing interactive demonstrations designed to explain the technical and operational responsibilities involved in maintaining the region’s water and electrical systems.
“We talk a lot about IID’s history, but this event is also about the generations of people behind that history,” IID Board Vice Chairman JB Hamby said. “Families across the Imperial Valley have helped build this District, operate its canals and power system, and keep water and electricity moving every day. We want people to come experience IID, not just hear about it.”
The formal State of the District presentation will provide an overview of the agency’s current operations, recent accomplishments and upcoming priorities.
District officials said the program will address IID’s role in providing essential public services while outlining ongoing responsibilities and future work.
IID General Manager Jamie Asbury said the event will also recognize employees whose work supports the district’s infrastructure and daily operations.
“We do an enormous amount of work every day that most people understandably never see,” Asbury said. “Opening our doors allows us to recognize our employees and help customers better understand the people, planning and infrastructure behind the services they depend on.”
The celebration will bring together district employees, customers, families and community partners for an evening focused on public education, historical recognition and community engagement.
Although admission is free, advance registration is required because of limited space. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Residents interested in attending can register through IID’s official event website at iid.com/stateofthedistrict.
