Gardenworks Approach to Drought Emergency Regulations

Recently, the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) approved emergency regulations to ensure agencies and state residents increase water conservation.  The regulation has four main components:

• No runoff allowed from outdoor landscapes to adjacent properties, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots, or structures
• No use of a hose to wash an automobile unless the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle
• No use of water on any hardscapes
• No use of potable water for a fountain or other decorative water feature except where the water is part of a recirculating system

Any violation of any of the above items can be punishable by a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500.00) for each day in which the violation occurs.  Implementation of the regulation is slated for on or about August 1st.  Water providers in all areas of the State may issue further restrictions based upon their drought contingency plans submitted to the Department of Water resources (DWR) to reach the Governor’s goal of a 20% reduction.

In anticipation of this regulation, Gardenworks plans to implement the following:

• Test and tune the irrigation system to maximize efficiency
• Repairs broken components as soon as they are found
• Reduce the irrigation schedules approximately 20% less than the current schedule
• Increase mowing heights on lawn to keep as much moisture in the blades of grass as possible
• Continue to read water meters each visit, record readings, and review usage trends
• Continue to reach out to and monitor local water providers for further restrictions

It is important to note that Gardenworks has reduced water usage to meet the drought restriction requirements imposed earlier this year and further reducing our water usage may lead to plant stress and/or plant mortality.

Consider options to protect your landscape investment such as adding a new layer of mulch, upgrading your irrigation timer to a “smart” controller or at least one that allows for percentage budgeting.  Installing a dedicated water meter for your irrigation system really helps to identify water leaks in the irrigation system.

Our goal is to comply with your local municipalities requirements while preserving your landscape investment.

You can find more information on our Drought Resources page or you can visit the California Water Resources Control Board website.