Updated 03.13.17
While recent rains have brought a good portion of California out of drought, there are still areas that are moderately dry, or in severe or moderate drought, primarily in the Central Valley, Los Angeles area, and close to the Mexican border. Even in the absence of drought conditions, people of faith are called to use water wisely and there are multiple ways that congregations and people of faith are reducing and conserving water. Below are a few measures being employed plus excellent websites offering more ideas. Please make sure to check in with your local water utility; they’re sure to have information and perhaps even incentives for water-reduction efforts.
CONGREGATIONAL EFFORTS:
1. Replacing lawns with beautiful drought-tolerant landscaping
2. Using permeable concrete which allows rainwater to flow into aquifers below
3. Using low-flow toilets and waterless urinals
4. Employing aerators on faucets to reduce water flow
5. Turning off tap while brushing teeth or lathering up
WEBSITES OFFERING FURTHER TIPS ON WATER CONSERVATION IN THE CONGREGATION AND HOME:
1. Save Our Water, a statewide program from the California Department of Water Resources, includes rebates
2. Water Use It Wisely, full of information and conservation tips
3. Earth Easy, 25 ways to conserve water in the home and yard.
4. Plumbing – Water Conservation At Home, great tips and links for water conservation
5. U.S. Insurance Agents Home Water Conservation Guide
6. “Grey water” – Water re-use info and tips
7. Fix your leaky faucet by checking YouTube for “how-to” guides. Here’s an easy simple one.
8. Ground water and drinking water: An expert guide for kids.
Water tips from major California water utilities:
Contra Costa Water District
Fresno Water Division
Kern County Water Agency
Los Angeles Department of Water & Power
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
Pasadena Water & Power
Sacramento Department of Utilities
The City of San Diego
San Francisco Water Power Sewer
Stockton Municipal Utilities
We’re confident that the California faith community will be at the forefront of protecting our state’s precious water resources!