A Department of General Services Capitol Park groundskeeper adds drip irrigation to a park rose bed.Photo: California Department of General Service
Whether the drought sticks around a few more years or dissipates soon, the majority of Californians don’t intend to quit their water-conserving ways.
According to a poll conducted by the Save Our Water program, 86 percent plan to continue to conserve water both indoors and outdoors on a permanent basis.
While the public’s perception of the drought’s seriousness has lessened since last polled in October, 74 percent still believe it is important to continue to find ways to reduce water.
“Even though winter storms have eased drought conditions in some parts of the state, water conservation remains an important priority for Californians,” said Mark DiCamillo, field poll director. “This prolonged drought has started to change the way Californians look at their water usage – whether the state is in drought or not.”
About half of those polled said replacing toilets and appliances for water-efficient versions was “very important,” while only 45 percent felt landscaping changes and turf removals were “very important.” Even so, a majority indicated that having access to rebates for these upgrades was “very important.”
Regionally, more Northern Californians noted permanent landscape changes as “very important.” In Southern California, 87 percent planned to continue to reduce water usage.
“Conserving through four years of drought has changed the way Californians think about water,” said Jennifer Persike, deputy executive director of external affairs and member services for the Association of California Water Agencies. “They get it, and they are making permanent changes to keep saving water.”
Most areas reported being affected by the water shortage, but the largest percentage of poll respondents indicating the effects was from the central part of the state.
Save Our Water is focusing its efforts on the “Californians: Fixing It For Good” program, which shows examples of those who are making permanent changes that will conserve water for the long run.
