Water Supply Update
Governor Declares Statewide Drought
Governor Schwarzenegger has declared a statewide drought in response to below average rainfall, very low snowmelt runoff, and significant court-ordered restrictions on water transfers affecting all of California. The drought situation affects various regions of the State in different ways. Water districts that depend heavily on transfers of water from Northern California via state and federal water projects will be impacted the most. The City’s water supply only depends on State Water to a limited extent, taking water when available and when needed to help stretch local supplies. South Coast water agencies are fortunate that Lake Cachuma filled completely due to winter rains. However, water conservation is always important and is a key element of the Governor’s response plan.
Santa Barbara has been a leader in water conservation for the past twenty years. The City’s award winning water conservation program offers many opportunities for our customers to save water, and money. Go to www.sbwater.org and take the “20-gallon Challenge,” which provides a personalized plan for saving water. Call 564-5460 for a free water check-up. Ask about rebates for water conservation upgrades and free rain sensors for your irrigation system. Visit the City’s Water Conservation Program for information on all kinds of indoor and outdoor water conservation.
Here’s what you can do to help conserve water!
° Take the 20 Gallon Challenge!
° Keep track of your consumption (shown on your water bill).
° Learn how to read your water meter and check for leaks.
° Call the Water Hotline for a free water check-up: 564-5460
° Change to new, water efficient plumbing fixtures – rebates are available.
° Learn how to use the “landscape watering calculator” and “watering index” to adjust your irrigation schedule according to local weather.
° Use efficient irrigation systems, like drip irrigation, bubblers, or rotating nozzles for spray heads.
° Check your irrigation system every month to be sure it is working efficiently and has no leaks.
° Use a broom instead of a hose to clean sidewalks and driveways.
° Replace turf and other high water using plants with water wise plants.
Is it illegal to waste water?
Yes. The Santa Barbara Municipal Code prohibits the waste of water, such as runoff from excessive irrigation. Any continuing cases of water waste should be forwarded to Water Conservation staff for follow-up.
Water Conservation Hotline 564-5460
Water Conservation Program
www.sbwater.org
Ahwahnee Principles for Resource Efficient Land Use Adopted
As an element of managing our water resources, the City recently adopted the Ahwahnee Principles for Resource Efficient Land Use, joining a growing number of local communities. These principles outline stewardship actions in water resource management to improve water quality, reduce costs, and maximize our water supply. For a complete list, go to www.lgc.org/ahwahnee/h2o_principles.html
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