Palm Desert slashes water consumption in response to drought mandate
The city of Palm Desert prides itself on being on the forefront of the valley’s water conservation efforts.
Among them: its early and extensive use of desert landscaping and the tens of thousands of dollars it’s offered in turf buyback rebates.
“We’ve done a lot, we think we can do a little more and that’s what we’re doing,” said John Wohlmuth, Palm Desert city manager.
On the heels of Governor Jerry Brown’s historic executive order to restrict water use, the city will roll out new measures over the next two weeks to continue slashing its consumption:
The city will reduce irrigation on roadway medians by 25 percent. The El Paseo median will be reduced by only 10 percent because of the recent installation of a water-conserving irrigation system that has already significantly reduced water use there, according to the city.
“It will probably be increased over the years, but 10 percent is probably a good start,” said Elronn Ferguson, who lives part time in Palm Desert.
Irrigation at Civic Center Park will also be reduced by 10 percent, while at the city’s other public parks it’ll be cut by a quarter.
“It’s critical for us right now, especially for the next couple of years,” said resident Carl Nelson, who recently installed desert landscaping at his home through the turf buyback program.
“What you might notice is areas that are very lush and green might be a little less green,” Wohlmuth said.
Watering will only happen at night to reduce evaporation and public misting systems won’t be turned on when the scorching summer arrives.
Finally, the water play feature at Joe Mann Park near Washington Street and Avenue of the States will also be shut off. The amenity uses 10 gallons of water per minute.
“It’s sad, you know, but it’s got to happen,” Ferguson said who also hopes more golf courses adopt usage of reclaimed water.
“Our residents follow some of the things we do and they will hopefully conserve and reduce water on landscaping at their homes,” Wohlmuth said.
