Conservation

 

BLWC adopted a water conservation plan in the fall of 2003 at the request of the California Public Utilities Commission.  It provided for an outside watering schedule of 3 days/week and no watering of plants, landscaping and lawns between the hours of 11 AM and 6 PM on watering days based upon the property address.

 

In 2003, the average gallons per day (GPD) consumed by residential connections was 289; in 2010, this had dropped to 226, a 22% decline.  Overall average consumption, including commercial users, declined from 332 GPD to 249 GPD, a 25% overall reduction.  Further reductions can be anticipated as our customers continue to become educated and adhere to the outside watering schedule and older homes convert to low-flow toilets, energy saving washers, etc.

 

Drought Conditions

 

Due to the statewide California drought and local conditions affecting the stream flow in Willow Creek, the Company in 2014 adopted a three Stage Water Rationing Plan that was approved by the PUC in October 2014.  Stage One is the normal condition which allows for three (3) days/week of outside watering.  Stage Two restricts outside watering to two (2) days/week and Stage Three eliminates all outside watering.  In 2014, it was necessary due to reduced stream flow and system demand to implement Stage Two on August 1st and Stage Three on August 20th.  Due to improved stream flow and reduced demand, Stage One was resumed on June 27,2016.

 

Section 864 of the Water Board’s Emergency Regulation dated May 18, 2016

To prevent waste and unreasonable use of water and to promote water conservation, each of the following actions is prohibited:

 

1. The application of potable water to outdoor landscapes in a manner that causes runoff such that water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots or structures;

2. The use of a hose that dispenses potable water to wash a motor vehicle, except where the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle or device attached to it that causes it to cease dispensing water immediately when not in use;

3. The application of potable water to driveways and sidewalks;

4. The use of potable water in a fountain or other decorative water feature, except where the water is part of a recirculating system;

5. The application of potable water to outdoor landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall;

6. The serving of drinking water other than upon request in eating or drinking establishments, including but not limited to restaurants, hotels, cafes, cafeterias, bars or other public places where food or drink are served and/or purchased;

7. The irrigation with potable water of ornamental turf on public street medians; and

8. The irrigation with potable water of landscapes outside of newly constructed homes and buildings in a manner inconsistent with regulations or other requirements established by the California Building Standards Commission and the Department of Housing and Community Development.