With the last 12 months being exceptionally dry, the U.S. Drought Monitor states that almost 95 percent of California is in some level of drought. And Bill Patzert, a climatologist at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, states that rainfall in the Los Angeles area has been below average for seven of the last ten years. In addition, Jeanine Jones with the Department of Water Resources states that the rainfall forecast for the state is not encouraging.
Fortunately, the Irvine Ranch Water District is not currently raising a water-shortage alarm. This is due in large part to the IRWDs diversified water portfolio (http://www.irwd.com/liquid-news/diverse-water-portolio-protects-irwd-customers-from-water-supply-disruption). However, IRWD does advocate for homeowner water conservation. Not only will this help to stretch our valuable water supply, it will also help the homeowner save money.
Here is how IRWD breaks it down:
| How much can you $ave? | Estimated Water $avings |
| Water only when necessary | 1,100 gallons per irrigation cycle |
| Water before 8am | 25 gallons per day |
| Check for sprinkler leaks, overspray & broken sprinker heads | 500 gallons per month |
| Use a water saving hose nozzle | up to 7,500 gallons per year |
| Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks | up to 150 gallons each time |
| Install a smart sprinkler irrigation controller | up to 40 gallons per irrigation cycle |
| Place organic mulch in your garden | hundreds of gallons per year |
| Replace thirsty plants with California Friendly plants | hundreds of gallons per year |
To help you reduce your water use, IRWD provides some additional tips for both outside and indoor water use. You will also find some rebate information in the links.