State Releases June Water Conservation Numbers by ACWA Staff Aug 3, 2022 Water News SACRAMENTO – The State Water Resources Control Board announced Aug. 2 that statewide water use in June was 7.6% lower than in June 2020, and more than double the statewide savings in May (3.1%), putting California solidly back on track toward meeting Gov. Gavin Newsom’s call for 15% voluntary conservation. “Californians throughout the state are responding to the need to conserve water,” said ACWA Executive Director Dave Eggerton. Despite already using 16% less water than in 2013, they continue to make steady progress toward achieving the governor’s statewide conservation goal.” According to a State Water Board news release, regional numbers show a decline in water use by about 10% in most of the state for June. Exceptions included the San Francisco Bay Area, which saw a 12.6% decrease in its June numbers, with the Central and South Coast reporting 5.5% and 5.9% reductions. The lower Central Valley reported at 4.7% reduction, while the southeastern corner bordering the Colorado River saw a 4.2% decrease in June water use over June 2020 figures. ACWA member agencies have been doing their part by promoting conservation, offering rebate and incentive programs and educating customers about water efficiency. However, conservation is just one component of the comprehensive strategy needed to address long-term climate resilience. “We appreciate Governor Newsom’s continued approach to drought response that empowers water suppliers to manage their water supply based on local conditions,” Eggerton said. “As the severe drought continues in California, water managers throughout the state are addressing the challenges of managing and maintaining a safe and reliable water supply for communities, the environment and local economies. A critical component of this effort is investment in water infrastructure, especially to capture more water during wet years to be available during the state’s longer and drier periods.” ACWA staff continue to advocate at the state and federal levels for further investments in water infrastructure.
