Full Notification

Drought Emergency Declared by Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

On January 17, 2014, Governor Jerry Brown declared a drought emergency in the State of California. The declaration was made as a result of California’s record low rainfall in 2013. Governor Brown is asking that everyone voluntarily reduce their water consumption by 20%.

In Orange County, residents are fortunate to be able to take advantage of the revolutionary Groundwater Recharge System (GWRS) that is managed by the Orange County Water District. This system maximizes use of the local water supply thereby reducing reliance on imported water. Even with the GWRS, Seal Beach does rely on imported water for about 25 to 35 percent of our water supply.
The City of Seal Beach has been proactive in reducing water consumption.

On May 9, 2009, the City adopted a water conservation ordinance with a goal of bringing down water consumption. The good news is that in Seal Beach water consumption has been reduced by ten percent over the past five years. Given the news of the drought emergency, the City watering schedules at our City parks are currently being reviewed to shorten watering times.

Although the Governor has requested a voluntary 20% reduction in water consumption, there could be more drastic measures taken in the future if rainfall continues to be low. Reducing consumption now allows water that is stored within reservoirs across the state to be consumed slower and be replenished when the next rain events occur.

There are numerous ways that residents can reduce usage. Please visit www.mwdoc.com/wue for ideas. The Metropolitan Water District of Orange County offers rebates and incentives to install items in your home that reduce water usage. A program even exists to pay for removal of grass areas in your yard and replace those areas with artificial turf.

If there are any additional questions please feel free to call the Seal Beach Water Department at 562.431.2527 ext. 1317 or email me with any questions related to the water system at [email protected].

Sean Crumby

Director of Public Works

PRESS RELEASE