Residents may notice soon their neighborhood parks are a bit drier than usual. That’s because the City of Sacramento is taking steps to reduce its water usage, which includes cutting back on some irrigation in its parks.
The City’s Department of Youth, Parks, & Community Enrichment will voluntarily reduce its water usage, in response to drought conditions throughout the region. The City declared a “Water Watch” in early July, the first of six stages in the Water Shortage Contingency Plan, which guides the City on responding to water shortages.
“We’ve asked Sacramento residents to voluntarily reduce their water usage by 10 percent, and YPCE will do the same,” said Youth, Parks & Community Enrichment Director Mario Lara. “It’s important we all do our part to help conserve water during drought conditions.”
YPCE staff have begun decreasing irrigation in “passive areas” such as lawns and picnic areas. However, they will continue to maintain gardens, trees, cemeteries, golf courses and dedicated sports fields.
“The City will continue to irrigate in gardens such as the McKinley Rose garden, in cemeteries, and in areas with new trees to ensure they are adequately taken care of,” Lara said.
YPCE also is emphasizing fixing any leaks in irrigation systems within 24 hours, Lara said.
Residents and businesses also can reduce water use by decreasing landscape-watering times and fixing leaks in irrigation systems. To learn how to save with water conservation rebates, including for grass conversions and indoor/outdoor fixture and appliance upgrades, please visit SacWaterWise.com.
The City last declared drought conditions from 2014 to 2017.