By Hallie Jackson and Casey Khademi
Across California, reining in water use is becoming a big priority this week after the State Water Resource sControl Board approved new limits. The restrictions now more strongly prohibit home owners and businesses from continuing some of their regular water-related activities. How can officials motivate citizens to reduce their water use when fines may not be enough to change habits?
At the East Bay Municipal Utilities District, we met someone trying a new approach. Rachel Garza is a water conservation technician who is going door to door, responding to complaints about water violations. With her calm and maternal demeanor, Garza talks to people about the drought, suggests ways they can cut back on water use, and helps homeowners to make their lawns more drought-friendly.