Anonymous
Source: Montecito Water District
1) “Outdoor Watering” Not Needed for the Rest of the Year.
Most landscapes will need no more water in 2021 thanks to rain received in December. If more rain arrives by the end of the month as forecast, this welcome watering hiatus is likely to extend into January, 2022. The cooler, shorter days provide perfect conditions for soil moisture retention, particularly below the soil’s surface and under mulch. Customers needing assistance with making seasonal adjustments to irrigation timers are encouraged to call the District’s Conservation Specialist at 805.969.2271 for assistance.
2) Customer Action has Water Consumption Trending Back on Budget District-wide: Voluntary Conservation Commended
Concerned by rising water use attributable to the onset of drought conditions and pandemic-related changes in consumption behavior, the District ramped up communications on the importance of voluntary conservation in spring of this year. Between December 2019 and June 2020, water use averaged 25% over budget, leading the District to establish a Goal for 20% water use reduction in July. “Customer engagement has been commendable since the 20% Reduction Goal was announced—resulting in a consistent downward trend in water use that has consumption trending back on budget,” said General Manager Nick Turner. “Additional ongoing reduction will be needed to meet the State’s guidelines. Customers are encouraged to take full advantage of these winter months to dramatically reduce water use, repair or replace irrigation systems, and update landscaping to lower property water needs long-term.”
3) “Desal Deliveries” Commence January 1
The 50-year Water Supply Agreement (WSA) with the City of Santa Barbara executed in September 2020 will provide the District with 1,430 acre feet of water per year beginning in January, 2022. Backed by the City’s Charles E. Meyer Desalination Facility, the agreement will supply approximately 35% of the District’s current annual water supply demands with a local and nearly 100% reliable supply of high-quality potable water. The WSA significantly enhances drought resilience and the overall reliability of the District’s water supply portfolio while also expanding regional water management options. With the onset of extreme drought conditions, and State Water Project allocations currently set at 0% for the coming year, the District welcomes the timely addition of this important new source.
4) Reliable Since 1921: Celebrating a Century of Service and Planning for the Next 100 Years
The District, founded in November 1921, is developing a strategic plan to be released in 2022 to commemorate its one hundredth year and ongoing commitment.
But when we cut back our water usage the utilities raise rates because of the drop in their revenue
Must be so terrible on Fernald point.
What crap. MWD takes the drastic step of ASKING their customers not to water in the rainy season! Be still my heart!
Yeah, the median annual household income of 93108 is only $150K
amazing they waited until December to ask. I guess they didn’t want to offend all the royalty in Montecito
Can you imagine needing to be told this?!
“OUTDOOR WATERING” NOT NEEDED FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR.
My usage jumps a bit in July and even more in October, usually, as I water my food trees. Still doesn’t go above 2 HCF, with one person. Last time it was high was Oct. 2020, at 3 HCF.
Granted, I’m retired so I don’t have to shower every day, thank goodness!
I’d mention rock and native landscape and gray water, but I’m sure everyone’s tired of hearing about it and those who care already know. My yard, front and back, is full of trees and greenery that I do not water.
Some of us realize that the value of what we pay for is hugely greater than what we are currently paying. Like water and gasoline, and meat. Some of us change our ways to be in alignment with that fact. Even if we don’t like it, we don’t overuse a resource to make a point.
Have you installed gray water to water your yard?