Water Watch

Photo credit Luis Tosta

With this week’s rain, one might wonder if we’re still in a drought. The Vine reached out to the Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) to find out. The bad news is that we’re still in a drought. The good news is that Irvine is prepared.

“We are in good shape and do not anticipate any water shortfalls as a result of this drought, even if similar conditions continue for years,” says John Fabris, IRWD’s Public Affairs Manager. “IRWD has a long history of investing in recycled water, storage reservoirs, and other drought-proof water sources.”

Fabris cites Irvinites’ smart water consumption as another reason not to fear the taps turning off. Using water more efficiently, converting lawns to California-friendly landscape, and taking advantages of rebates to upgrade fixtures have all contributed to lower water usage in our city. But there is still more work to be done. The issue that Fabris sees as the most problematic in Irvine is overwatering outdoors.

“Have you ever driven by a house during a rainstorm and seen the sprinklers running, shooting water onto the landscape and sidewalk for no reason?,” asks Fabris. “That’s what we’d love to prevent.”

To assist Irvinites in watering the sidewalks less, IRWD offers rebates on weather-based irrigation controllers, rotating spray nozzles, and more. Fabris says now is a great time for homeowners to get out and check their sprinklers for leaks. Irvinites can call IRWD for help and find advice on its water-smart gardening website, RightScape.com.

Check for leaks, faulty fixtures, or sprinkler controllers that are not properly programmed, urges Fabris. With everyone’s help, Irvine can keep the water flowing.  

Why Irvine’s water supply in such good shape? Find out why we only import 14% of our water here.