STATE TO CONSIDER STRICT WATER RATIONING MEASURES TODAY

The State Water Resources Control Board considers tough water restrictions today that could reshape how we consume water. The Board will discuss the drought and water restrictions for the 400-plus water districts in the state. CalEPA researcher Max Gromberg said, “We are telling all of water districts around the state, if you already have a plan where you’re limiting outdoor irrigation, stick with that plan. If districts don’t have a plan, outdoor irrigation must be limited to two days per week. Gromberg said the board will also initiate prohibition against outdoor watering for 48 hours after a rainstorm. Changes for water usage at restaurants and hotels mean you can’t serve water unless customers request it; hotels and motels will give customers the option of not having sheets and towels laundered.” As far as fines, the state is expected to leave in place the fine structure that was put in place last year for water agencies to use as guidelines. Local water agencies would choose the particular days for rationing the supply, but under the mantra that everyone needs to step up conservation efforts. The restrictions are a reaction to the epic ongoing drought and an especially warm and dry winter. Recently released data from January show that Californians only reduced their water usage by 8.8 percent when compared to January 2013, despite an emergency draft order last year from Gov. Jerry Brown, who asked for a 20 percent cut.