To address Los Angeles County’s long term water supply needs, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved Supervisor Antonovich’s motion to develop a water conservation ordinance requiring the use of drought-tolerant and native landscaping in all new development in the County’s unincorporated communities.
“Over 70% of household water usage occurs outside the house. This ordinance will minimize the need for excessive watering of plants that are not native to Southern California or otherwise require a lot of water to survive,” said Antonovich.
The Departments of Public Works and Regional Planning will also consider additional conservation strategies for future ordinances including drip-irrigation sprinkler systems, dual-piping for recycled water, and similar equipment.
Antonovich also urged State legislation authorizing construction of dams and waterway improvements in Northern California. “Drought conditions, increased water transport costs and environmental concerns at the San Joaquin Delta require new infrastructure to meet the State’s growing water needs.”