Villa Park : Water Conservation Plan Goes Into Effect

Starting today, residents must use less water or pay more for it under a new plan initiated by the Serrano Irrigation District to cope with the drought, district officials said.

The program requires residents to use 20% less water based on the average amount used during the last two years, said General Manager David Noyes (see Clipboard, this page). Residents who use more than their allotment will be charged double for the excess amount, although the district has created an appeals process for “hardship” cases.

Water now costs 60 cents per 100 cubic feet--about 750 gallons--a rate that will increase to 72 cents starting today. The cost jumps to $1.44 per 100 cubic feet after a household’s allotment is used up. “This year, the water is available at an extra cost, but next year it may not be available at any cost,” Noyes said.

The drought “hasn’t affected us drastically yet, but it’s going to cost us a little more,” he said. “If the drought continues, it could have a tremendous impact. I don’t think you’re going to see rain forests in the back yards anymore.”