For the De Berard family, it's a big chance. And a big change.

The De Berards are one of the several pioneering families that came to the Inland Valley in the early 1900s and made their living growing grapes. They have been tending vineyards in the same place since 1918. Today, 100 acres of a 137-acre parcel along Interstate 15 and the Pomona Freeway are sill covered with producing vines. 

But within the next few months, the vines will have to get used to a new neighbor -- a 534,000-square foot distribution center now under construction along Hammer Avenue in the 130-acre Mira Loma Distribution Center.

The land will be covered from what was once a relatively low-cost operation -- growing grapes -- to the state-of-the-art world of warehousing and distribution.

"What was once a simple operation is now almost all gone, along with the days when labor was cheap and water was free," said Robert De Berard, one of three partners in the new building.

Robert De Berard's grandfather, W.W.H. De Berard, came to Rancho Cucamonga in 1902 from Iowa by way of San Francisco. He originally purchased 80 acres that stretched from Hermosa to Haven Avenues. In 1903, he sent for his four sons to come help with the vines.

Robert De Berard worked alongside his father until his time came to take over all farming operations in 1961. There were 300 acres planed at that time. At one time, the family farmed grapes and peaches on as many as 600 acres.

"We knew the grapes would not always drive the property, so we made the decision about two years ago to build on spec," said Jeff De Berard.

When the real estate market started showing signs of life, the partners decided to begin building so the center would be available for occupancy at what they hope will be the height of the leasing season.