MMWD Urges Water Conservation

Although it says local reservoirs are fuller than average this summer,  (MMWD) is reminding its customers that there’s never enough water to waste.

The district says that they rely on rainfall stored in reservoirs for 75 percent of the water supply. Keeping reservoirs full will help if rainfall is below average next year, said Ann Dickenson, spokesperson for MMWD. 

“Most of our customers are very conscious about using water responsibly and they may not even realize they are wasting water,” says MMWD Water Conservation Manager Dan Carney. “That’s why we point it out when it comes to our attention. Eliminating water waste can also be an easy way to bring down your bill.”   

Under the district’s Water Conservation Code, the following practices are considered water waste and are unlawful:

• Washing sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots and all other hard-surfaced areas by direct hosing, except in cases of public health or safety hazard. 
• Water leaks or breaks that are not repaired within 48 hours of discovery or notification from the district, whichever occurs first. 
• Non-recycling decorative water fountains. Make sure that any decorative fountains recirculate the water they use.
• Wasteful irrigation practices that allow water to run off or overspray the areas being watered. Water plants, not pavement.
• Any excess water runoff flowing onto the public right of way at a rate of one gallon per minute or greater, with the exception of storm water and naturally occurring groundwater.

There is an ordinance that allows for warning notices and water restriction when there is a ongoing problem of water waste, but Dickenson said that the district doesn't usually have to implement it. "Folks have been happy to work with us to resolve the situation," said Dickenson.

Customers can contact the water conservation department if they see a water waste condition or need help identifying the cause of water waste on their property.

Water Conservation Department -- (415) 945-1520
E-mail: conservation@marinwater.org