Welcome Storms Ease Water Droughts in California

05-03-2011

The sunshine state of California is known for its long standing water challenges. The state has recently been gripped in another drought, which lasted three to four years and now receives a welcomed respite from the conditions. Due to increased snow and rain fall, which has filled the reservoirs to full capacity, a very unusual occurrence for the semi-arid Californian climate, the water stores have now been replenished.

The Governor, Jerry Brown has rescinded the previous Governor’s drought declaration, issued in 2008, however it is more likely to be case of when rather than if the droughts return. Mark Corwin, director of the Department of Water Resources said; “We are looking at a good water supply year, as we prepare for this summer’s peak demand period” Although spirits are high, the declaration of the end of a drought could lead to Californians abandoning their water conservation habits, as their efforts are rewarded with an abundance of water. The danger is that the value of water decreases and water is lavishly wasted as a result. Whether water rates will be positively affected is still to be determined. The issue of water supplies and how much will be allocated to local agencies is still on the water board’s agenda.

Droughts highlight how precious water is; any sort of water leak is costly. The preservation of water is pivotal to maintaining a comfortable lifestyle. Conserving every drop should be at the forefront of our routines, a shortage of water is at the very least an inconvenience and at the most a threat to survival.

Stemming water leaks quickly, especially in sun drenched regions is of paramount importance. Water is a necessity. During a drought people are more sensitive to water waste. This outlook should be adopted everywhere. Making sure that any unnecessary leaks are guarded against, so that gallons of water are not needlessly wasted should be normal practice.

California is a state that trades months of sunshine for reduced water. Through careful conservation measures and weather anomalies, regions such as California can continue to enjoy relief from bouts of drought.