Governor Declares Drought Emergency

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger today proclaimed a state of emergency because California is in the third year of a drought.

His declaration sets the stage for additional steps to conserve water statewide.

"This is a crisis, just as severe as an earthquake or raging wildfire, and we must treat it with the same urgency by upgrading California's water infrastructure to ensure a clean and reliable water supply for our growing state," he said.

Here at CCWD, the announcement was expected. Last week, we received news of a severe 50 percent reduction in our water supply from the Bureau of Reclamation, and last year asked customers to conserve water voluntarily.

The District has already announced it is likely to ask its customers for mandatory reductions depending upon upcoming announcements of water supply.

We are continuously providing information to our customers along with providing rebates for homeowners and businesses that purchase water-saving toilets and washing machines. CCWD also provides to all of its customers free water saving devices such as low-flow showerheads and on-site conservation surveys.

On Wednesday, CCWD's Board of Directors is scheduled to take the first step in implementing CCWD's Drought Management Plan. At that meeting, the Board will consider declaring a water shortage condition and direct preparation of a ordinance to include water use reduction goals.

The board is expected to vote on CCWD's Drought Management Plan at its April 1 meeting.