Water district asks customers to cut irrigation systems

In an effort to save water this winter, the Laguna Beach County Water District is challenging customers to voluntarily turn off irrigation systems from Dec. 1 through Feb. 29.

With shorter days, cooler nights, and the chance of a strong El Niño, landscapes won’t need the extra water, according to a news release.

With less water being used outdoors during the winter, there is less to cut back. For that reason, it will be more difficult to achieve Laguna Beach’s 24% reduction target each month.

The Irrigation Freeze Challenge is a way to help residents and local businesses reduce their water use and get Laguna Beach closer to its 200 million gallon savings goal by March 2016.

“While a strong El Niño could bring significant rainfall, it won’t be enough to get us out of this historic, four-year drought,” district General Manager Renae Hinchey said in a statement. “We need to make every effort to reduce our daily water use in order to meet our mandatory reduction goal and ensure a reliable water supply.”

In accordance with state regulation, district customers are prohibited from using irrigation systems during and 48 hours after measurable rainfall.

“The more residents who participate in the challenge, the less likely it will be that we see sprinklers running during a rain event,” district Conservation Administrator Sergio Ramirez said. “Irrigation systems that operate with dummy clocks typically are set up with a fixed schedule and go on regardless of whether it’s raining.”

Watering by hand is still permitted as long as it follows the district’s winter watering schedule.

Residents can stop by the district office at 306 Third St. for a free yard sign and enter for a chance to win a $100 gift card. Two participants will be selected each week.