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December 18, 2014  
In This Issue
Remember to Turn off Irrigation Systems after Rainstorms
Take Advantage of Rebates on Rain Barrels
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San Diego County Water Authority


Remember to Turn Off Irrigation Systems after Rainstorms

December rains provide relief,
but don't end drought
 

 
A series of rainstorms during the first three weeks of December boosted reservoir levels statewide and increased the Northern California snowpack, providing a welcome relief from more than three years of drought conditions. On Dec. 17, precipitation in San Diego was 205 percent of average for the "water year" to date (since Oct. 1), and it was 145 percent of average in the northern Sierra Nevada. In addition, the amount of water in the Northern California snowpack improved from 24 percent of average on Dec. 9 to 50 percent of average on Dec. 17.

  Irrigation Checkup

While the storms were significant, the drought is far from over. State officials have said the wet weather would have to continue through the winter and produce 150 percent of average precipitation for the entire water year to recover from the drought. The initial 2015 allocation from the State Water Project -- an important water source for the San Diego region -- was set at 10 percent of requested supplies in early December. It's a very low initial allocation, though the figure may fluctuate up or down depending on precipitation over the winter.

 

One big benefit of the December dousing is that residents and businesses can turn off their outdoor irrigation systems at least through the end of 2014. A few rainy days can provide enough water for lawns and landscapes to survive for long stretches without irrigation, and they offer a valuable chance to save stored water supplies for next summer when water reserves will be even more important.

 

Outdoor watering accounts for more than half of a typical household's water use in California, and it has become a focal point for water conservation efforts. The Water Authority estimates that widespread participation in a voluntary two-week hiatus from using landscape watering systems across the region this month could save more than 5,500 acre-feet of water -- enough to serve about 11,000 families of four for a year.

 

Go to WheninDrought.org for more information about drought conditions, conservation resources and information about water-use rules by community.

Take Advantage of Rebates on Rain Barrels    

      

December's rains offer a reminder that rain barrels can help make the most of the water nature provides. By taking advantage of a $75 rebate per rain barrel, residents can save water and money. In addition, collecting rainwater from gutters and downspouts for lawns and gardens reduces the amount of water flowing into storm drains, sewer systems and local waterways.    

Rain Barrel  

Rebates through the SoCal Water$mart program are good for up to four rain barrels per home. Barrels must be at least 50 gallons to qualify.  

 

Go to WaterSmartSD.org for details about rain barrel rebates along with information about other conservation programs and incentives.

The San Diego County Water Authority works through its 24 member agencies to provide a safe and reliable water supply to support the region's $206 billion economy and quality of life of 3.1 million residents.