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Drought Update (February 2023)

While the recent winter storms have greatly improved the drought conditions in California, most of the state remains in mild to extreme drought. The state has had the wettest 3 week period to date but the water supply has not recovered enough to declare an end to the drought.

On May 24th, 2022, in accordance with the Governor’s March 2022 Executive Order, the State Water Resources Control Board adopted emergency regulations to expand water conservation across the state. The statewide restrictions set forth apply to all Californians, regardless of local drought and water table conditions. These restrictions continue to be in effect. For more information on the current drought condition, you may visit: drought.ca.gov.

As in years past, South Mesa Water Company will continue to be required to report our company’s monthly and annual water consumption to the State Water Resources Control Board. South Mesa Water Company’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan has been developed and customized based on our unique infrastructure and management. Triggering Level 2 of this plan involves implementing the following actions to navigate the drought and prepare for a water shortage level of up to 20 percent:

Prohibited Uses of Water:

  • Using water in a fountain or other decorative water feature, except where water is part of a recirculating system.
  • Applying water to outdoor landscapes during and within 48 hours after measurable rainfall.
  • Use of sprinklers on any type of irrigation during high winds.
  • Using a hose to wash motor vehicles unless fitted with a shut-off nozzle.
  • Watering landscape in a manner that causes runoff onto adjacent property, private and public walkways, roadways, parking lots or structures.
  • Applying water to driveways and sidewalks.

Obligation to Fix Leaks:

  • All leaks, breaks, or other malfunctions in customers’ plumbing must be repaired within five business days, unless other arrangements are made with us.

Commercial and Business Requirements:

  • Commercial nurseries shall water only between 11:00pm and 6:00am, using hand-held devices or drip irrigation.
  • Drinking water may not be served, other than upon request, in eating or drinking establishments.
  • School grounds, residential, and publicly owned lawns shall prevent run-off from irrigation activities.

South Mesa Water Company would implement the following mechanisms to enforce the water use prohibitions:

First Warning: issuance of written warning to the water user by placement of door hanger message.
Second Warning: issuance of written warning to the water user by placement of door hanger with message stating that failure to comply will result in a Notice of Violation being issued together with a fine or surcharge of $100.00 imposed on the water account.
First Notice of Violation: a fine or surcharge of $100.00 is imposed on the water account.
Second Notice of Violation: a fine or surcharge of $200.00 is imposed on the water account.
Third Notice of Violation:  a fine or surcharge of $500.00 and/or the installation of a flow restricting device on the water meter at the Board of Directors discretion.

South Mesa Water Company would like to thank our shareholders and customers for your efforts in water conservation. As stewards of our local water resources, it is essential that our community works together to protect our water supply and use it responsibly. To ensure sustainable water supplies for the future, we must continue to embrace conservation efforts and adopt new ways of saving water. Even small adjustments can make a big difference in your water use. It is our goal to help you on your way to water efficiency.

To learn more visit www.SaveOurWater.com.

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