“Fall Back” Into the Habit of Saving Water!

By Mark Paulson, Board of Directors, Division I – Alhambra San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District

This fall, as you turn back your clocks and prepare for cooler weather and the holidays, California will continue to be nearly drought-free thanks to heavy rain and snow earlier this year. Additionally, for the first time in over a decade, our District is receiving 100% of planned allocations of imported water through the State Water Project to help replenish local groundwater. What a difference from a year ago!

However, drought will recur; plus, in the long term, we use more water than Mother Nature provides. Let’s not forget about responsible water conservation behavior. Consider three actions related to our precious water resource as you ease into fall.

First, reset your irrigation controllers and systems to water less frequently and in smaller amounts as the weather becomes cooler and rainier and sunshine is less intense. After it rains, turn off your watering system for a few days.

Second, purchase a rain barrel that can capture stormwater for reuse around your home. If you buy a rain barrel, the District will provide you a rebate of up to $35, which you can learn more about on the SGVMWD website.

Third, plant California Native Plants and other drought-resistant vegetation to give your vegetation and their roots a head start before next year’s warmer spring and summer months. The SGVMWD also has information about these kinds of plants.

For more information, please visit sgvmwd.com or call the District at 626-969-7911.