Turning challenges into opportunities: A business legacy of recycling and renewal

Person standing next to a sign for 'Artesia Sawdust Products Inc.', with cautionary notices and a piece of construction equipment in the background. — *Brigitte DeLaura, owner of Artesia Sawdust Products, Inc., in Ontario, CA*

For over six decades, Artesia Sawdust Products has been transforming waste into valuable resources. What began with one man and one truck in the 1960s—collecting wood shavings from lumber mills and transforming them into compost and animal bedding—has evolved into a third-generation, family-run business spanning 30 acres in Ontario.

Today, Artesia continues its mission as a vital recycler in San Bernardino County, processing wood waste into soil amendments, mulch, animal bedding and playground materials.

“We’ve always seen ourselves not just as a business, but as a solution,” said owner Brigitte DeLaura, reflecting on her father’s entrepreneurial journey from Portuguese immigrant to Inland Empire business pioneer.

The challenge

In recent years, Artesia has faced mounting challenges. Aging infrastructure at processing plants, rising costs, and limited outlets for recycled wood created serious barriers to sustaining operations. “At one point, we were essentially masking an industry-wide problem,” DeLaura explained. “We were taking everyone’s wood waste even though there weren’t enough outlets. Eventually, something had to give.”

Rising costs, workforce reductions, and uncertainty about future relocation further complicated the situation. “It felt like a sinking ship,” recalls DeLaura. “We needed help, and we needed perspective.”

The Workforce Development Board connection

That help came through a connection with the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board. Introduced to Workforce Development staff and partners, Artesia’s leadership gained something invaluable: a fresh perspective and strategic support.

Workforce Development connected Artesia to business consultants that helped them review their financials and identify cost savings. “They walked us through everything from insurance to operations and helped us realize that we had more value than we thought,” said DeLaura. “It was exactly what we needed at that moment: awareness, recognition, and encouragement to keep going.”

Beyond numbers, Workforce Development support gave Artesia something even more critical: renewed energy. “I was feeling defeated, but Workforce Development helped me see that there was still hope. They reminded me that what we do matters.” The business has since re-engaged with vendors, explored new outlets for recycled products, and begun mapping long-term strategies for land use and business continuity.

“Artesia’s story is a testament to the resilience of family-owned businesses in our county,” said William Sterling, Workforce Development Board chairman. “Their commitment to sustainability and their willingness to adapt in challenging times show how critical it is for us to stand with businesses that are a critical part in creating solutions for our region.”

Broader impact

Artesia’s success goes beyond its 30-acre site. By diverting thousands of tons of wood waste from landfills, the company helps California meet its environmental goals while supplying vital products to nurseries, landscapers and communities. “If it’s not us, this material ends up where it shouldn’t—in a landfill, so we’re proud to be part of the solution,” said Artesia General Manager AJ Espinoza, who represents the next generation of company leadership.

As Artesia plans for the future, the family remains committed to sustainability, community partnership, and workforce innovation. “We know relocation may be inevitable, but we would like to stay in San Bernardino County,” DeLaura emphasizes. “This county has always supported us, and we want to continue being an asset here.”

When asked what advice she would give to other businesses, Brigitte is direct: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t just assume things will work themselves out. The Workforce Development Board is here, and they want to see you succeed.”

Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe added, “Artesia embodies the resilience of small businesses in our region. With support from the Workforce Development Board, they are navigating industry changes while continuing a proud family legacy that benefits our local economy and our environment.”

Programs like these are made possible through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board continues to deliver career services and customized support that equip residents with the tools they need to thrive.

To connect with business resources, please visit our website or contact our business services manager, Curtis Compton, at 909-215-7255 or ccompton@wdd.sbcounty.gov. You can also follow us on social media at @SBCWorkforce.

Additional County Update News – September 11, 2025