Water-use efficiency
The Orange County Water District is committed to the efficient management of water resources to ensure water reliability. It maximizes every drop and explores opportunities to increase its water supply. OCWD supports the state-wide effort to encourage all Californians to use water wisely and promotes conservation through its educational program offerings.
Following a severe five-year drought (2012-2016 water years), the state of California rescinded mandatory conservation standards, but kept in place the water use reporting requirements by urban water suppliers and prohibitions against wasteful practices for the general population.
Water conservation has become a California way of life and the state has permanently restricted the following:
- Hosing off sidewalks, driveways and other hardscapes;
- Washing automobiles with hoses not equipped with a shut-off nozzle;
- Using non-recirculated water in a fountain or other decorative water feature;
- Watering lawns in a manner that causes runoff, or within 48 hours after measurable precipitation; and
- Irrigating ornamental turf on public street medians
Below are some helpful tips and rebates to help you in your conservation efforts.
Drought-tolerant landscaping
California Friendly ® gardens and landscaping are less thirsty and are a beautiful way to save water.
Water conserving devices and rebates
The Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) currently offers high-efficiency toilet and washer rebates and a turf removal program.
Conservation strategies
Droughts are a recurring fact of nature in California. It is important that everyone makes a conscientious effort to use water as efficiently as possible.