California Governor Brown Mandates Statewide Water Restrictions

Following the lowest snowpack ever recorded and with no end to the drought in sight, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today announced actions that will save water, increase enforcement to prevent wasteful water use, streamline the state's drought response, and invest in new technologies that will make California more drought resilient.

A full copy of his executive order can be found here.

For the first time in state history, the Governor has directed the State Water Resources Control Board to implement mandatory water reductions in cities and towns across California in an effort to reduce water usage by 25%.

Actions provided in the executive order that directly affect the green industry include:
 - Replacing 50 million square feet of lawns throughout the state with drought tolerant landscaping.
 - Significant cuts in water use on campuses, golf courses, cemeteries and other large landscapes.
 - Prohibitions on irrigating with potable water in new homes and developments unless water-efficient drip irrigation systems are used,
 - Bans on the watering of ornamental grass on public street medians.

Increased Enforcement Against Water Waste

The Governor's executive order also calls on local water agencies to adjust their rate structures and utilize surcharges, fees, and penalties to maximize water conservation. Urban water suppliers are required to provide monthly information on water usage, conversation, and enforcement to the Water Board.