Drought's grip loosens on California
Water-use efficiency remains important statewide
Two encouraging developments this week underscored the state's lessening drought conditions, while offering a reminder that water-use efficiency remains important statewide.
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Water levels in Lake Oroville, a key part of the State Water Project, rose significantly over the winter, making it easier for state officials to adjust drought regulations.
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Gov. Jerry Brown on Monday issued an executive order that directs the State Water Board to adjust emergency water conservation regulations through the end of January 2017 and develop proposed emergency water restrictions for 2017 if the drought persists. He also established longer-term water conservation measures, including permanent monthly water-use reporting, new permanent water-use standards and bans on wasteful practices such as hosing off sidewalks, driveways and other hardscapes.
On Tuesday, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California lifted water supply allocations imposed on the Water Authority and other MWD member agencies in 2015.
The Water Authority is reviewing the details of executive order and will consider appropriate responses with the Water Authority's Board of Directors at the regular Board meeting on May 26.
Despite the positive news, the state still has concerns about California's long-term water supply outlook, and water-use efficiency remains the goal in San Diego and statewide no matter the weather. Local water-use prohibitions also remain in effect. To find restrictions or conservation information related to your community, go to www.whenindrought.org.
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Region's Long-Term Water Management Strategy Released for Public Review
Updated Urban Water Management Plan balances supplies and demands over two decades
The development of drought-resilient water resources and a sustained emphasis on water-use efficiency mean that San Diego County will continue to have a safe and reliable water supply for decades, according to the Water Authority's draft 2015 Urban Water Management Plan.
The draft plan - known as the 2015 UWMP based on when the updating process began - was released April 29 for public review, starting a public comment period that will include a public hearing on May 26 during the regular meeting of the Water Authority Board of Directors. The Board will consider adoption of the plan during its regular meeting on June 23.
Urban Water Management Plans are important tools for reporting water agencies' long-term planning efforts to meet future demands and tracking progress toward achieving state-mandated water conservation targets. They also support state laws linking approval for large developments to water supply availability. By law, the plans must be updated every five years.
The Water Authority's draft 2015 UWMP estimates that future water demands will be about 14 percent lower in 2020 and about 15 percent lower in 2035 compared to projections in the 2010 plan. The reduction is due to changes in demographic and economic projections by SANDAG. To meet projected demands, the Water Authority anticipates continued development of highly reliable, locally controlled water supplies such as new recycling and groundwater recovery projects.
For more information about the Water Authority's water supply and demand planning efforts, including a copy of the draft 2015 Urban Water Management Plan, go to www.sdcwa.org/uwmp.
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Free Classes Teach
Low-Water-Use Landscaping
The Water Authority is offering several classes as part of the San Diego Sustainable Landscapes Program. That program is the result of a multi-party regional partnership to promote a watershed approach to landscaping. The class guidelines help achieve multiple benefits including greater water-use efficiency, stormwater management, groundwater recharge, green waste reduction, and embedded energy savings.
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