Malibuites Asked to Conserve Water

Drought Is No Longer Just an Ag Issue in California

•Malibuites Are Now Impacted by Need to Conserve Water

Joining other water agencies throughout the Southland that purchase water from the Metropolitan Water District or one of its 26 member agencies, Los Angeles County Waterworks District No. 29, which serves Malibu, has announced water conservation measures. Because of the ongoing drought, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved the declaration of a Phase II Water Shortage in the District, requiring that customers cut their water usage to 15% below an average or pay substantial surcharges.

The cutbacks will require customers to use no more than 85% of the average amount of water used in the district during the 2004 to 2006 base period established by the wholesaler or face surcharges. The charges are two times the normal rate on water used that exceed the target amount by up to 15%, and three times the normal rate for any water used beyond that. If the water situation worsens, the district system could advance to a Phase III shortage, which would require customers to reduce by 20%.

For more information about the water restrictions or free conservation programs, call Melinda Barrett, Water Conservation Manager at 626-300-3362, or visit www.lacwaterworks.org