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The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) declared an end to the Water Shortage Emergency Condition and Emergency Water Conservation Framework last week. During a workshop on April 5, IEUA’s Board unanimously agreed to return to normal water supply conditions for the Agency’s service area.
“Recent winter rainstorms have given the State a much-needed, welcome break from severe drought conditions,” stated IEUA Board President Marco Tule. “While California will always be vulnerable to extreme and variable weather, we are pleased to see some reprieve to allow for eased regulations within the region.”
The Board’s decision was made in accordance with Governor Newsom’s Executive Order on March 24, 2023, which allows individual agencies the flexibility to go down to Level 0 in their drought contingency plans, signifying short-term relief from shortage conditions. The Governor’s Executive Order did not rescind the Drought Emergency, however, and certain water uses that are considered to be wasteful remain prohibited, such as using potable water to irrigate ornamental turf in commercial properties.
“IEUA is committed to investing in resources that alleviate the effects of drought and provide practical solutions to water supply issues,” continued Tule. “Overcoming persistent, cyclical drought requires a unified effort between water suppliers, water retailers, and residents. We applaud the flexibility and water-wise efforts of the region as we navigate California’s water supply challenges to ensure a safe, plentiful water supply is available for future generations.”
