Knabe Calls for Aggressive Water Conservation Measures

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors today unanimously approved a measure by Chairman Don Knabe to adopt the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) emergency regulations for water conservation.

The motion calls for the implementation of the State’s regulations by August 1, 2014.

On July 15, 2014, the SWRCB adopted a resolution of emergency regulations, including:

  • Prohibiting certain water uses, including washing down driveways and sidewalks, using a hose to wash a car unless it is fitted with a shut-off nozzle, and using potable water in a fountain, unless the water is recirculated
  • Limiting outdoor watering to two days a week
  • Requiring suppliers to report per capita usage

Further information about the SWRCB’s regulations is available here:  http://goo.gl/No83bm

“Eighty percent of California is suffering from extreme drought conditions with no relief in sight,” said Supervisor Knabe. “As the largest employer in Los Angeles County, we maintain and operate over 5,000 buildings and facilities.  We need to ensure our house is in order and not only do our part in our unincorporated areas, but also set an example for the 88 cities in the County.”

The Department of Public Works will report back in 30 days on the status of implementation and any changes that need to be made to the County’s Water Wasting Ordinance to ensure compliance with the SWRCB regulations.