Water officials: Turn off irrigation systems

SAN DIEGO (CNS) – With the seasonal rains here, water officials are urging residents and businesses to turn off their irrigation systems and leave them off for up to two weeks following storms that provide significant rainfall.

A few rainy days can provide enough water for lawns to survive for long stretches without irrigation, providing a valuable chance to save stored water supplies for next summer when water reserves will be even more important to help the region withstand drought conditions.

“Make the most of every opportunity to reduce outdoor water use,” said Mark Weston, San Diego County Water Authority chair. “Widespread efforts to decrease irrigation following storms can save large volumes of water and help minimize the impact of any water supply reductions in 2015.”

Outdoor watering accounts for more than half of a typical household’s water use in California, and has become a focal point for water conservation as the statewide drought extends into a fourth consecutive year.

Many San Diegans are taking the opportunity afforded by rainfall and cooler temperatures during fall and winter to replace their high-water-use grass with WaterSmart landscaping more suited to the county’s semi-arid climate.

Rebates of up to $3.50 per square foot are available for qualifed turf replacement projects. Details are available at www.watersmartsd.org.