Staying Ahead of the Drought Curve
Matt Davenport of Monarch Environmental
Benjamin Franklin once stated, “By failing to prepare, you’re preparing to fail.” You might be thinking, “Are we seriously talking about drought again?” If you find yourself asking that question, you’re not alone. Despite the torrential rains we’ve seen in the past couple of years, we must maintain a drought mindset for the inevitable future. The truth is water is a finite resource. Every drop we have was here from the beginning of time, and while our population keeps growing, our water supply does not.
The challenge before us is clear: How can we ensure our communitiesare readyfor future droughtconditionsand regulations? More importantly, how can we do this while maintaining beautiful, enjoyable landscapes? The good news is that it’s possible to achieve both.
THE CHALLENGE
Southern California, with its famously pleasant weather, still faces the unpredictability of rainfall. This makes it imperative for everyone to anticipate and adapt to low-water years. Homeowners associations (HOAs) bear a significant responsibility in this regard. They need to adopt forward-thinking landscapingstrategiesthatprioritizebothenvironmental consciousness and financial efficiency. By renovating landscapes to promote drought tolerance, we can conserve water and create sustainable, attractive outdoor spaces.
USE LESS, SPEND MORE?
Now, here’s something that might surprise you: water costs canriseevenwithreduced usage. Waterdistricts have shifted costs from water usage to fixed water meter charges. This move insulates them from revenue drops during state- mandated water reductions (2015). While water rates have been climbing steadily, the fixed meter costs have skyrocketed. This means managing water consumption and the effects of drought on our landscapes is crucial.
EFFECTS OF DROUGHT
•Increased Costs: Drought can lead to higher water costs, especially if HOAs are fined for exceeding water usage
restrictions.Byimplementingwater-efficientpractices, HOAs can reduce water usage and mitigate the financial impact of drought.
• Landscaping Challenges: Drought conditions can stress plants,makingthemmoresusceptible to pestsand
diseases.Properwateringand maintenancecan help minimize the impact of drought on landscaping and ensure that plants remain healthy.
• Community Aesthetics: Maintaining attractive landscaping during droughts can be challenging but is achievable with proper planning and water-efficient practices. Choosing drought-tolerant plants and implementing efficient irrigation systemscan help HOAs maintainavisually appealing landscape while conserving water.
SOLUTIONS
• Regular Maintenance: Inspect irrigation systems regularly for leaks and malfunctions to prevent water waste. Fixing leaks promptly can help conservewater and prevent damageto landscaping.
• Choose Wisely: Selecting plants suited to their environment is crucial for their health and longevity. Using the wrong plants can lead to increased water usage, maintenance costs, and the need for frequent replacements.
•Embrace Natives: Native plants, which have thrived in California for centuries, offer numerous benefits. They require less water, reduce the need for pesticides, support local wildlife, and contribute to the overall beauty of an area.
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