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DROUGHT UPDATE! - Stage 2 Emergency Conservation

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San Benito County Declared Drought Emergency!

Even as we progress into the winter season of 2023, we are continuing to experience drought. Our local main water supply comes from the groundwater that is very slowly replenished. Though we have had a good start to rainfall this year, we cannot predict if that rainfall will continue. In addition, our imported water we recieve has remained substantially cut back due to low reservoir levels statewide. Both agriculture and cities received a zero allocation at least through Feb. 2023.

All customers are asked to immediately make every effort possible to conserve as much water as we try to continue to stretch our local water supply. We have provided the stage 2 emergency water conservation regulations below that are effective immediately. Failure to comply with these regulations will lead to a warning letter explaining in detail the conservation measures that must be followed. Continued failed compliance may lead to penalties. Please take a moment to read through these updated regulations as our community depends on it. Together, we can get through these unfortunate circumstances.

Stage 2 Emergency Water Conservation Regulations - Every Drop Is Important!

       Please Do Your Part to Help Us Get Through this Drought

Outdoor Watering Schedule - Set your irrigation timers as there is no watering between 9 AM and 5 PM permitted since this is when evaporation is highest.  If water is running off on the sidewalk or street, reduce the run time or try watering more often in shorter intervals. Landscape watering shall be limited and restricted to no more than two (2) days per week. Odd numbered addresses are hereby restricted to watering on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Even numbered addresses are hereby restricted to watering on Wednesdays and Sundays. Watering landscape in a manner that causes runoff to adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, private and public walkways, roadways, or parking lots is not permitted either.

Washing Vehicles - Take your vehicle to a commercial car wash where they recirculate the water and capture soap and pollutants. There is to be no washing of cars without the use of a quick acting, positive shutoff nozzle. Wash it on the lawn rather than the driveway to keep soap and pollutants out of the storm drains.

Sweep Concrete Surfaces - There should be no washing down of any sidewalks, driveways or other hardscape surfaces. Rather than hosing down your patio, driveway, or sidewalk use a broom or a blower to clean them. Just 5 minutes of washing with a hose can waste more than 30 gallons.

Fix Leaks - Leaks, breaks and malfunctions of irrigation systems and plumbing equipment causing waste of water shall be re-paired and corrected within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the District Manager of Sunnyslope County Water District or the City Manager of the City of Hollister. A dripping faucet or running toilet can waste over 100 gallons each day! Regularly check your landscape irrigation system for leaks you normally wouldn't see since it might water overnight. Call a plumber today to fix any leaks you find. 

Conservation Habits - Don't leave the water running while you wash your hands, brush your teeth, shave, or do the dishes. Take shorter showers. Catch water for washing hands in a bowl, then use it to water your plants. Only run the washing machine or dish washer when it is full.

Businesses - Restaurants may only serve water upon request. Operators of hotels and motels must provide guests with the option of choosing not to have towels and linens laundered daily and prominently display notice of this option.

Other Restrictions - No operation of decorative fountains or other water features unless the water is recirculated.

Resources - The WRASBC (Water Resources Association of San Benito County) can assist with setting your irrigation timers to help meet the regulations stated. They are also a free leak detection and irrigation assessment service. Please call them at 831-637-4378 for more information.

City of Hollister Drought Update Flyer