LW Water Conservation FAQ
Editor’s Note: Iris Lee, the deputy public works director for the City of Seal Beach, answers questions LW residents have regarding the State Water Board’s water conservation emergency regulation adoption (see page 1 for more information). They were compiled to help Leisure World and the city better navigate this effort together. The state may modify the interpretations at any time. The city update information as it becomes available.
Question: How do I know if the turf is functional or nonfunctional?
Answer: The state generally defines nonfunctional turf as ornamental grass that is not used for human recreation purposes. As this definition can be interpreted in various ways, we rely on Leisure World representatives to define where those functional vs. non-functional turf areas are. You know your home best. For example, if residents use a common grass area for regular social gatherings, it may be considered functional and may be irrigated under current state regulations.
The city can help guide but does not dictate how turf is or will be used in Leisure World.
This leniency provided by the state is not intended to provide a loophole but to stress the value in a collaborative, good faith effort.
Question: How do I water trees that are on the same irrigation system as non-functional turf?
Answer: We highly recommend checking with your landscaper to discuss how the irrigation system is programmed. Generally speaking, if the trees are irrigated on the same station/system as non-functional turf and cannot be separated, measures should be taken to keep the trees properly irrigated, even if that means watering the non-functional turf in the immediate vicinity of the tree. Alternatively, hand watering may be an option if your landscaper feels it is an appropriate irrigation means for the trees.
Question: If Leisure World hits the target reduction of 20%, does that mean conservation requirements (i.e., non-functional turf irrigation) can be waived?
Answer: No. Water conservation is still required even if target reductions are met. Exceeding target reductions not only helps with
local water supply, but also regionally and statewide. If everybody meets or exceeds this Level 2 goal, we may be able to avoid further water shortage level escalation (i.e., Level 3).
Question: Where can I direct my landscaper to find practical water saving tips?
Answer: The State Water Board and the Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) are great resources for water efficiency and conservation tips. As an added option, the City of Seal Beach can arrange for one of its experts to meet with landscapers to discuss viable alternatives.
• State Water Board - Save Our Water: https://saveourwater.com/
• MWDOC: https://www.mwdoc.com/save-water/water-useefficiency/
Question: Where can we report water waste violations?
Answer: It would be most desirable to communicate drought severity and water conservation needs through educational means, then work collectively to meet the goal. As a last resort, water waste may be reported to the State Water Board at https:// savewater.ca.gov/.
