District finds '50 ways to save water'

Las Virgenes Municipal Water District introduced a new water conservation campaign called "50 Ways to Save Water."

The community outreach effort wants to build awareness about the need for every home and business to reduce water consumtpion in light of the statewide drought.

LVMWD general manager John Mundy said the campaign is intended to educate the community on water-wise practices in a positive way.

"This year marks the 50th anniversary of the district's founding, so we though there must be at least 50 ways to help our customers be more informed in the ways they can use water more efficiently," he said.

The outreach program will be featured inside water district facilities, in local publications, at community events and on the district's website.

"We very much want and need the assistance of the community in reducing water use," Mundy said. "We believe this is one of the positive actions we can take to build awareness that everyone needs help."

The water district's board of directors adopted mandatory conservation measures that include a prohibition on outdoor watering between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., a band on washing down hardscape, restaurants may only serve water upon request and hotels must give multi-night guests the option to retain towels and linens.

The campaign features colorful posters of different sizes, each with an easy-to-remember tip on a way to reduce water use. Some examples include using a broom to sweep a driveway or sidewalk, taking vehicles to a car wash where water is recycled, turning off the water when brushing teeth or shaving, washing only full loads of laundry or dishes, and repairing all plumbing leaks as soon as they appear.

"The drought is real," said Joseph Bowman, president of the district's board of directors.