California: Record Drought Covers 58 Percent Of State
California’s record drought has reached 58 percent of the state. On Tuesday, officials confirmed California is currently experiencing the worst drought in the state’s recorded history. The “exceptional” conditions prompted officials to fine residents for overuse and misuse of water.
On June 29, California lawmakers passed an emergency regulation to conserve water supplies. The new regulations prohibit residents from using potable water to wash their vehicles, water their lawns, and fill decorative water features. Residents who violate the restrictions will be fined up $500 per day.
The restrictions are not limited to residents. Water suppliers are also expected to conserve water — or face hefty fines. As outlined in the Water Shortage Contingency Plan, all outdoor irrigation must be limited to twice per week. Larger water suppliers are also required to monitor and record all water usage. Failure to comply could cost suppliers up to $10,000 per day.
State officials believe the regulations will decrease daily water usage up to 50 percent.
As reported by SFist, California’s record drought has reached drought-level 4 in nearly 60 percent of the state. Level D4 indicates the worst and most “extreme” conditions.
Officials based their findings on numerous factors, including the state’s reservoir levels, topsoil moisture, and occurrence of wildfires.
The researchers determined the entire state is “short more than one year’s worth of reservoir water.” Additionally, they determined California’s intrastate reservoirs are 40 percent below average levels.
Topsoil and subsoil evaluations revealed a severe lack of moisture, which is specifically detrimental for farmers.
As reported by the Los Angeles Times, California’s record drought could force many farmers into bankruptcy. This season, approximately “500,000 acres of land” sat idle due to lack of water.
Fewer crops have led to increased prices of fruit, vegetables, dairy products, and meat. In June, the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicted a 3.5 percent increase in food prices nationwide. California Farm Bureau president Paul Wenger said the increase could be significant for families:
“We have conservatively projected that the average American family will spend about $500 more on food this year because of the drought… But with what we are hearing from farmers, we expect that number to go up.”
Three years of hot and dry conditions have also increased the state’s occurrence of wildfires. In recent weeks, the El Portal Fire and Sand Fire destroyed “almost 8,000 acres of vegetation.”
The effects of California’s record drought are being felt throughout the nation. State officials do not have all the answers. However, they believe conservation of water is a good step in the right direction.
[Image via Shutterstock]
