The District’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP) was adopted at the Board meeting in May 2021. The primary component of the WSCP is how it addresses water shortage scenarios. The plan addresses six stages of drought. Water shortage scenarios are defined in six (6) levels ranging from Level 1 – less than 10% shortage of available water supply to Level 6 – more than 50% shortage of available water supply. The District’s WSCP has identified 25 demand reductions measures to be implemented at varying stages of water shortage levels to offset a potential shortage in supply. The State of Emergency proclamation constitutes a level 1 water shortage scenario as defined by the WSCP, “water supply conditions are sufficient to meet 90 to 100% of projected unconstrained demand for the next two years.” The demand reduction actions to be implemented during a level 1 water shortage scenario are as follows:

1. Prohibit the application of potable water on outdoor landscapes in a manner that causes excessive runoff such that water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots, or structures.

2. Prohibit the use of a hose that dispenses potable water to wash a motor vehicle, except where the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle or device attached to it that causes it to cease dispensing water immediately when not in use.

3. Prohibit the application of potable water to driveways and sidewalks

4. Prohibit the use of potable water in a fountain or other decorative water feature, except where the water is part of a recirculating system.

5. Prohibit the application of potable water to outdoor landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall.

6. Prohibit the serving of drinking water other than upon request in eating or drinking establishments, including but not limited to restaurants, hotels, cafes, cafeterias, bars, or other public places where food or drink are served and/or purchased. 

7. Limit residential and commercial landscape irrigation to no more than three (3) assigned days per week.

8. Prohibit the irrigation with potable water of ornamental turf on public street medians.

9. Prohibit the irrigation with potable water of landscapes outside of newly constructed homes and buildings in a manner inconsistent with regulations or other requirements established by the California Building Standards Commission and the Department of Housing and Community Development.

In addition to the demand reduction actions, the WSCP identified Supply Augmentation and Other Actions which are to be implemented at various water shortage levels. In a level 1 water shortage scenario, the District will expand the public information campaign by offering workshops and/or increase the use of bill inserts. This applies to all five Divisions within the District.