As California faces increasing water scarcity challenges, the state has taken significant steps to ensure sustainable water use. Central to these efforts are Senate Bill 606 (SB606) and Assembly Bill 1668 (AB1668), collectively known as “Making Conservation a California Way of Life.”
These laws aim to create a long-term framework for water conservation, recognizing the need for more efficient water use in urban and agricultural sectors. On July 3, 2024, the California State Water Board adopted critical measures to enhance these efforts, which will be implemented by agencies in January 2025 and enforced starting January 2027.
Here’s why it’s crucial to renovate your landscape and irrigation systems now to meet these future compliance requirements.
Understanding SB606 and AB1668
SB606 and AB1668 mandate establishing urban water use efficiency standards, aiming to reduce water consumption across California. These laws require urban water suppliers to:
⦁ Develop and adhere to water use objectives.
⦁ Implement water shortage contingency plans.
⦁ Improve agricultural water management.
California’s New Measures
On July 3, 2024, the California State Water Board adopted specific measures to support these mandates.
These measures include:
- Water efficiency standards: Establishing per capita water use standards that urban water suppliers must meet.
- Performance measures: Introducing performance measures for water loss control, requiring regular audits and reduction strategies.
- Enhanced reporting requirements: Mandating detailed reporting from water suppliers to ensure compliance and track progress.
Implementation Timeline
⦁ January 2025: Agencies are expected to implement the adopted measures.
⦁ January 2027: Enforcement of these measures will begin.
Why now?
- Proactive compliance: By renovating your landscape and irrigation systems now, you can ensure compliance with the upcoming standards and avoid potential penalties when enforcement begins in 2027. Early adoption of efficient practices will also allow you to adapt to any regulation adjustments over the next few years.
- Water conservation: Renovating your landscape to include drought-resistant plants, native species and efficient irrigation systems can significantly reduce water usage. This not only helps meet the mandated standards, but also conserves a precious resource, contributing to the broader goal of sustainability.
- Cost savings: While the initial investment in renovation might seem high, the long-term savings on water bills can be substantial. Efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation and smart controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, can minimize water waste and lower costs.
- Environmental benefits: A well-planned landscape that incorporates native plants and efficient irrigation supports local ecosystems. Native plants require less water and are more resilient to local climate conditions, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Renovation steps
- Assessment: Evaluate your current landscape and irrigation systems. Identify areas where water use can be reduced.
- Design: Plan a new landscape design incorporating drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation systems.
- Implementation: Install the new landscape and irrigation systems.
- Maintenance: Regularly maintain your new landscape and irrigation systems to ensure continued efficiency.
Conclusion
As California and the rest of the country move toward a future of sustainable water use, it’s essential for property managers to take proactive steps in renovating their landscapes and irrigation systems.
By doing so, you not only comply with SB606 and AB1668, but also contribute to a more significant environmental effort to conserve water.
