On April 7, the Governor ended the drought state of emergency in light of the near record-breaking precipitation this winter. Governor Brown also released an updated draft of the report, “Making Conservation a California Way of Life”.

 Read the press release.

 

This report outlines the steps that state agencies hope to take to bolster long-term conservation efforts, building on Governor Schwarzenegger’s 2009 effort, 20 by 2020 (SBx7-7).

Desert Water Agency (DWA) along with water agencies across the state have been under restrictions since June 2015. DWA customers have saved 24% cumulatively since the restrictions went into effect, more than the statewide average of 22.5%. The agency has also already met its 20 by 2020 target.

“We’re very proud of the efforts our community made during the statewide drought,” said General Manager Mark Krause. “Shifting our focus back to long-term sustainability only makes sense. We will definitely continue to work with our customers to enhance efficiency.”

Board action is needed to change Desert Water Agency restrictions as to what day of the week and what time of day customers are permitted to water their landscaping. The Board of Directors will evaluate these restrictions at their next board meeting on April 18 at 8:00 a.m. at Desert Water Agency headquarters, 1200 Gene Autry Trail in Palm Springs. The agency will make an announcement on restrictions that day.

Some restricted activities, like blatantly wasteful irrigation (runoff), watering during and 48 hours after rain and washing down sidewalks and hardscapes will be permanently prohibited by the State and by DWA pursuant to the agency’s conservation ordinance. Desert Water Agency will continue to enforce these restrictions by encouraging customers to participate in the agency’s rebate programs and issuing penalties when needed.

“The drought changed the way our customers think about water use,” said Ashley Metzger, the agency’s Outreach & Conservation Manager. “We expanded our conservation toolbox during the drought and expect customers will keep taking advantage of the rebates and programs we offer for years to come.”

Desert Water Agency offers: 2016-2017 Turf Buy Back Grants; Smart Irrigation Controllers; FreeSprinklerNozzles.com; Toilet Rebate Program.