Stricter Regulations for North Tahoe Water Users

California water agencies are reporting their largest monthly decline in water use this year as the state confronts dire drought conditions.

 

Data released Tuesday show water use dropped 11.5% in August compared with the year before. That was the first full month of mandatory restrictions and fines for water-wasters.

 

The report from the State Water Resource Control Board covers water agencies with 3,000 or more customers. Together, they serve 33.5 million Californians, or roughly 87% of the population.

 

The city of Tracy in Northern California had the largest percentage decrease in water consumption. Of the districts serving 40,000 or more customers, 10 actually increased their water use.

Gov. Jerry Brown called on Californians to reduce water use by 20% when he declared a drought emergency in January.  (AP)