THOUSAND OAKS : Water Conservation Measure May Pass

The Thousand Oaks City Council is expected to pass an ordinance tonight asking residents to voluntarily reduce their water consumption, a measure that officials hope will help lessen the effects of the drought.

The council also is expected to schedule a public hearing for June 12 on whether it should adopt a mandatory water conservation ordinance.

Although Thousand Oaks residents cut their water consumption in April by 10% compared to the same time last year, more needs to be done to combat the water woes, officials said.

According to a city report, the Metropolitan Water District, which supplies water to areas of the east county, could experience shortages of 100,000 to 300,000 acre-feet this year.

“More than anything. . .we need to use our water in the most effective way possible,” said Don Nelson, the city’s director of utilities. “A good deal of our water is wasted.”

The voluntary ordinance, if approved, will urge residents to take the following steps:

* Adjust sprinklers and irrigation systems to avoid over-spraying and runoff.

* Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day or on windy days.

* Avoid planting trees that require a lot of water.

* Install pool and spa covers to minimize water loss due to evaporation.

* Check faucets, toilets and pipes for leaks and repair immediately, if necessary.