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The 1990 census confirmed that California's population is increasing at more than double the national average. The state's population is growing by 750,000 people a year and projections indicate that by 2019 over 40 million people will live in the state. The sunny arid Southland -- particularly the south coast area of San Diego, Los Angeles and Orange counties -- will account for much of this growth. With an increased population comes an increased demand for water.
According to the State Department of Water Resources, unless water development keeps pace with continued growth, future shortages are inevitable, even in years of normal precipitation. A state water policy task force has predicted that in 2010, statewide water shortages will be between 4 million and 6 million acre-feet a year.
Defrost frozen food in the refrigerator or in the microwave instead of running water over it.
Check faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks.
When washing dishes by hand, use two basins -- one for washing, the other for rinsing -- rather than letting the water run.
Insulate your water heater and all hot water pipes. Less water will be wasted before hot water flows.
Build a compost pile instead of using your garbage disposal.
Use a broom, rather than the hose, to clean sidewalks and driveways.
Use a bucket of water, sponge, and a hose with a shutoff nozzle to wash your car.
Place a layer of mulch around trees and plants to retain water.
If you have a swimming pool, get a cover for it and you'll cut the loss of water by evaporation by 90%.
Use a moisture indicator to tell when your lawn needs watering and when it doesn't.
Adjust sprinklers so only the lawn is watered, not the house, sidewalk or street.
Consider installing drip irrigation for individual bushes, trees, flowers, and garden areas. This method gets water slowly and directly to the plant roots where it's needed most.
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