– Press release from the City of Bishop

City of Bishop water customers used 20% less water in April 2015 compared to April 2013. Because of the drought, the state requires potable water users to use 25% less water in 2015 compared to 2013.

Last summer, the State of California required that the City of Bishop implement water conservation measures to achieve the state-required reduction in water use. Most water conservation requirements apply to outside irrigation so, with the traditional start of the irrigation system in the Owens Valley 1 April, the reduction in water use is starting to show.

The attached graph showing water use in 2013, 2014, and so far in 2015 shows water use down substantially in April 2015. Although water use was down 20% in April, it wasn’t down the 25% required by the state. In December, the city will have to report to the state how well its users have conserved water. The city could be subject to $10,000 per day fines if it doesn’t meet the 25% reduction in water use. Updates of this graph will be released monthly.

As a reminder, the current water conservation mandates that apply to City of Bishop water users are:

– No outdoor irrigation except between 5 pm and 9 am

– No outdoor irrigation such that water runs off property

–  No outdoor irrigation during and within 48 hours after precipitation

– New landscaping must use drip irrigation or microspray

–  No washing vehicles unless hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle

–  No washing driveways, sidewalks, and parking areas

– No decorative water features unless there is recirculation

– No serving of water in commercial establishments except upon request

–  Hotel guests can choose to not have towels and linens washed each day

– No water waste caused by easily correctable leaks, breaks, or malfunctions

– No use of potable water for construction purposes

– No hydrant flushing except when required for public health and safety.

Most water is used for outdoor irrigation so most measures address outdoor irrigation. The city may allow exceptions to some of these measures in some cases. More water conservation requirements are expected from the state as the drought continues.

Saving water saves money, reduces water rates, protects groundwater, is the right thing to do, and is now required by the state. Contact the City of Bishop Department of Public Works at 873-8458 for more information on water conservation and the City’s water system.