A Level 1 Water Supply Shortage is effective as of July 1, 2010.

 

Though California experienced a wet winter in early 2010, reservoirs remain below capacity after experiencing four consecutive dry years. Additionally, restrictions on water deliveries from Northern California remain in effect. This means that the efficient use of water remains critical.

 

In July 2008, the Olivenhain Municipal Water District's Board of Directors adopted its Water Supply Shortage Conservation Ordinance, declaring a Level 1 Water Supply Shortage for OMWD's service area. In May 2009, the Board of Directors declared a Level 2 Water Supply Shortage, instituting mandatory water use restrictions throughout OMWD's service area.

 

After spending one year in a Level 2 Water Supply Shortage, the Board of Directors declared that OMWD would return to a Level 1 Water Supply Shortage as of July 1, 2010. Under Level 1, water use restrictions are voluntary but still encouraged to ensure efficient use of water. If conservation targets are not met or if the region's water supply condition worsens, the Board of Directors may consider returning to Level 2.

More information on OMWD's return to a Level 1 Water Supply Shortage is available here.