Readers React: Californians are in denial about the drought

To the editor: The Southland showed a 1.7% decline in water use in July. That’s small, but at least it’s a step in the right direction. (“Southern California’s water usage drop not as steep as rest of state,” Sept. 10)

When the last water shortage was declared, I gave up my lawn, started taking “ship-board showers” (get wet, water off, lather up, water on, rinse, get out), and I even started filling the toilet water tank with the initial warm-up water. But each morning on the way to work, all I see are nicely manicured, emerald-green lawns.

Then I read about the latest round of new housing starts. Really? Is anyone taking this seriously?

Until I see a moratorium on new housing construction, Central Valley farmers starting to grow water-efficient crops only and my neighbors getting serious about their landscaping, my water usage is going to double. I don’t care anymore.

I am done being a “hero” (really a sucker). Seattle, I have my eyes on you.

Robert M. Imm, Sunland

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To the editor: The city of Los Angeles maintains control over parkways — the strip of land, usually covered in grass that lies between the street and the sidewalk. Although homeowners do not own this land, they have to maintain it within the city’s parameters.

I recently spent $7,000 to replace 730 square feet of front lawn with synthetic grass, and I am working with the Department of Water and Power to get a rebate for this at $3 per square foot.

I had hoped to replace the 300 square feet of grass on our parkway as well, but I have learned that I need a revocable permit from the city to do so. My understanding is that I’ll probably have to spend more than $1,000 to get the permit.

What a self-defeating policy. With the inspection and paperwork, this is a waste of my time and the city’s time too.

What will it take for the various agencies to cooperate and work with responsible citizens in addressing our serious drought problem?

Gerald C. Davison, Los Angeles

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To the editor: I was born and brought up in California. I visited my family and friends recently and was dismayed to see the drought conditions — and the level of denial of too many Californians.

Why is water still being lavished upon nonessentials such as car washing, lawns, backyard pools and golf courses? I wonder if by doing these things — pretending the drought is not happening — you think you’re keeping the inevitable water loss at bay.

Ask your children and grandchildren what they think about water use in California. How do they think water should be used now so that enough will be left to meet their future needs?

D.E. Larson, Beaverton, Ore.

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