Saving water in drought-stricken California
In the face of a devastating drought, California is trying to drastically curb water consumption. Towns will have to cut back by up to 35 percent, the state's top water regulator announced on Tuesday. Here's how.
Wastewater flush
Recycled water is used for irrigation at this park in Burbank outside Los Angeles. Wastewater can help save freshwater that has become a scarce resource in the state. Every day, more water is used for irrigation than for any other purpose in California.
Dry reality
Empty public pools could become a reality in more and more communities across the state. The dream of building a lush paradise in the state's desert landscape seems to be over as California tries to cope with a fourth year of record-breaking drought.
From pool to dirt
Pools are considered part of California's lifestyle. But communities have now put limits on filling private pools and implemented bans on constructing new ones. Some desperate home owners are getting rid of them altogether – filling them with dirt.
Cactus garden
Drought-tolerant landscaping keeps gardeners busy as local authorities offer cash incentives for getting rid of water-guzzling grass lawns. This cactus in San Fernando Valley will grow, come rain or not.
Paint it green
A more radical solution: dyeing the dry lawn with environmentally friendly spray paint. Yet, the colorant lasts only about six months. And, of course, without water, the grass will dry up eventually and turn to dust.
An uprooted industry
About ten percent of California's water supply is used for growing almonds. As the drought continues, farmers like Barry Baker from Firebaugh, have to remove trees they can't irrigate anymore. Adapting agriculture to a changing climate will be a big challenge - not only for California.
No snow today
For the first time in California's history, Governor Jerry Brown last week announced statewide water restrictions. He did so atop a Sierra summit barren of snow - a foreshadowing that water supplies will remain scarce. Officials complain that Californians have cut back their water use only marginally since the drought started.
Stranded sea lions
Even famous SeaWorld has responded to the crisis by draining its animal tanks. No, not really, just satirical news site "The Onion" carrying drought-coverage to the extremes. However, the theme park said that it has installed a saltwater flushing system in their newest restrooms in order to conserve water.