While concerns about water usage continue, trucks haul water for bottling from the spring at Paul Black's home off Highway 243 between downtown Idyllwild and Pine Cove. It's a legitimate operation. I wish he was more sensitive to the needs of the community. Black, a retired attorney, purchased the mountain cabin about 10 years ago. The property, which is in the Pine Cove Water District right by the Idyllwild Water District boundary, included a natural spring on the bank of a creek.
Water flows from a pipe protruding from the bank.
Black did not consider selling the water until he and his wife, Betty, lived in the home for several years. His spring was approved by the state as a commercial water source and regularly is tested. Water is stored in a tank with a float valve that shuts off the pipe when it is filled. He sells a truck load or two each day. The trucks carry 6,000 to 7,000 gallons apiece.