Water Conservation Update

Thursday, 19 November 2009

Residents and businesses throughout San Diego County are all conserving water! According to data from the San Diego County Water Authority, total water use for the months of July, August and September was down 11% compared to the same period in 2008. The Port is doing our part to contribute... we reduced our irrigation in Port-maintained landscaped areas by 35% this summer compared to the same period in 2008!

Unfortunately, water supplies are still being limited by drought and court-ordered pumping restrictions, and mandatory water-use restrictions still remain in effect. Here's a few tips to consider for the upcoming winter months:

• Replace high-water-use plants with some that use less water. San Diego County's semi-arid climate means that this time of year is the best time to replace your plants, because they can take advantage of winter storms to help get established. View the Nifty Fifty Plant List to get some ideas
• Turn off your irrigation systems as rainy weather approaches. Systems can be left off for up to a week following storms, depending on the amount of rainfall.
• Only run your dishwasher when it's full. This is especially important to keep in mind if you're planning to entertain friends and family in your home during the holidays.