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.
The City’s Fish Management efforts on the Santa Ynez River 
Enhancing Habitat for Steelhead Trout
The Lower Santa Ynez River Fish Management Plan, adopted in 2000, identifies projects and management strategies to enhance steel head habitat in the lower river and tributaries. Implementing the plan includes:
- Modifying barriers to steelhead migration;
- Releasing water from Lake Cachuma for steelhead migration
- Improving habitat for steelhead; &
- Maintaining a long-term monitoring program.
Lower Santa Ynez Fish Management Plan
Fish Passage Projects
http://www.ccrb-board.org/fishmanagement
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 |