The column follows BEC's fight to preserve the area's groundwater. The environmental focus of BEC has shifted through the years. In the beginning, the implementation of a recycling program for Butte County was the driving force behind the organization. Over the next 15 years, intensive efforts resulted in the designation of wilderness areas in Northern California. Today responsible land use and development is the leading issue.
Advocacy plays a vital role in the successes made towards preservation of the environment.
Greenline The Greenline is a boundary that separates urban from agricultural uses along Chico's western border. The goal of the green line policy is to protect prime agricultural soils south, west and north of Chico from urban development. The policy is subject to review every five years. The Greenline policy remains controversial. BEC representatives have attended public hearings and written letters during the Greenline creation and each subsequent policy review.