Water supply shortages prompt stringent water use restrictions

With hot and dry summer weather approaching, the San Gabriel Valley and California are facing worsening drought, reduced imported water deliveries from outside the area, and low groundwater levels. Despite needed rain and snow in April across the Sierra, precipitation in the majority of the State is still below average to date. As a result, for the first time since mandatory water use restrictions in 2015, the State and local water suppliers are drastically increasing water use restrictions affecting one-third of Southern Californians and parts of the San Gabriel Valley.

The average person in Southern California uses about 125 gallons of water per day, but the amount needs to be closer to 80 gallons per day – that equates to a 35% reduction in consumption. A major concern is that water conservation efforts have been lagging. Data from the State Water Resources Control Board showed California overall, especially in southern California, was increasing its urban water use and falling short of the State’s “voluntary” 15% water use reduction goal. Water savings tracked since July 2021, when the Governor called on Californians to voluntarily cut water use by 15%, were just 6.4% – less than half the target.

Water conservation works and is the cheapest means of saving water. Thus, the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District is renewing its efforts to inform and incentivize residents and businesses to save water and to save money voluntarily. Please visit their website at sgvmwd.com for more tips, or see their ad in Around Alhambra