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Trabuco Canyon Water District
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July 16, 2014
EMERGENCY DROUGHT UPDATE
Drought conditions in California have been around since the early 1900�s. From 1918 to 2009, there have been nine multi-year droughts of a large scale.
In 2014, during the past 6 months and upcoming months �
-On January 17, 2014, Governor Brown declared a Drought State of Emergency and issued a Proclamation of a State of Emergency noting record dry conditions with 2014 projected to become the driest year on record with the State entering its third year of below-average rainfall. Governor Brown�s Declaration called for a voluntary 20% reduction in water usage.
- On April 25, 2014, Governor Brown issued a Proclamation of a Continued State of Emergency and an Executive Order calling on the State to redouble state drought action plans.
- On July 15, 2014, the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) proposed emergency regulations to reduce outdoor water waste, increase conservation efforts, limit outdoor irrigation and require water suppliers, like TCWD, to implement mandatory conservation measures to reduce water usage. In addition, the State Water Board also proposed the issuing of daily fines of up to $500 for wasting water.
- On or about August 1, 2014, the proposed emergency regulations could go into effect if they are adopted and approved by the Office of Administrative Law � stay tuned.
TCWD�s RESPONSE
In January, following Governor Brown�s declaration, TCWD responded by reminding its customers of TCWD�s Permanent Provisions through its website, monthly On Tap Newsletters, hosting a Water Awareness Event in May, and responding to customer phone calls and site visits.
TCWD�s Permanent Provisions include the many requirements proposed by the State Water Board and are the first stage of TCWD�s Water Conservation Ordinance. In following with its Ordinance, violation of TCWD�s Permanent Provisions constitute the issuing of a written notice to customers in the form of a door hanger (sample door hanger notice).
To assist customers with reducing water usage TCWD is participating in customer rebates for turf removal and water efficiency devices. TCWD will also be participating in conducting free surveys of customer�s indoor and outdoor water use that will provide water-saving recommendations.
TCWD Will Continue To:
- monitor the drought situation including customer usage, regional reservoir levels and storage supplies
- communicate and work with its customers to comply with the Permanent Provisions and Ordinance
- coordinate with its regional and local wholesale suppliers (MET and MWDOC) and with other South County agencies to further collaborate on regional projects and means for reducing water usage.
| Governor Brown Declares Drought State of Emergency |
| Trabuco Canyon Water District's Permanent Provisions |
| Board Adopted Ordinance 2008-18 |
| What Does a 20% Reduction in Water Use Look Like? |