The first shovel of dirt was turned for a new casino in the South Valley.

After 25 years, Eagle Mountain Casino is starting a new chapter. The casino officially broke ground in Porterville — a big win not only for the casino but also the Tule River Tribe.

Eagle Mountain Casino’s General Manager Matthew Mingrone said, “It’s more than just slot machines and table games. It’s really about water first and foremost and the well-being of the tribal members.”

Mingrone said the original casino uses 40,000 gallons of water every day, which is enough for about 80 homes.

This new location will free up more of that water so more tribal members can move back on the reservation.