Water Conservation in Woodland Hills

Worsening drought conditions have resulted in 140 Woodland Hills residents receiving a warning letter from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP). In their letter, city officials urge residents to carefully assess their water consumption and consider the importance of water conservation in the area. Mandatory water usage reductions can be necessary during periods of extreme drought and water shortages, and residents in these areas are advised to take the water usage restrictions seriously.

Simple and practical guidelines can assist homeowners and other residents in applying new practices that help with water conservation in and around the home. Purchasing and installing new high efficiency, water-saving appliances is helpful, but not necessary to put a dent in water consumption habits. There are many other ways to avoid excessive water use during periods of drought, both inside the home and around the yard.

For household water usage:

In the bathroom, fix leaky toilets and other pipes, take shorter showers or fill tub only half-way, and do not let water run when shaving or brushing teeth.

When washing laundry or dishes, wait until there are full loads in the machines before running a wash cycle.

For outdoor water usage:

To help plants conserve water, mulch around the plants and water them in the evening so there is less water evaporation. Installing drip irrigation for existing plants is also a great method for water conservation in the garden.

Consider replacing grass lawns with more water efficient landscaping, such as native plants that are more resistant to drought conditions.

Fill a bucket with water and sponges for water play instead of running a sprinkler for the kids, and use a broom to sweep off the driveway and sidewalks instead of using water from the hose to clean these areas.

These great water conservation tips can be applied immediately and most do not require any cost to the resident or homeowner. Being mindful of water usage and finding creative ways to contribute to water conservation can be a great way to break old habits, as well as make a difference in the neighborhood and in the larger community.