City of Shasta Lake downgrades water restrictions | KRCRShasta Lake, Calif. (March 2, 2022) – With California entering a third year of drought and its reservoirs at historic low levels, the United States Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) has initiated emergency drought restrictions reducing the City’s water allocation for the 2022 water year.   The reduction in water supply has prompted the City Manager to enact water conservation restrictions moving the City from a Stage 1 to Stage 2.

 In addition to the Stage 1 Water Shortage requirements, below is a summary of Stage 2 Water Shortage requirements:

  • Water use for ornamental ponds and fountains shall be prohibited.
  • Parks and school grounds shall be watered at night only between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m., no more than three nights per week, and shall achieve a twenty (20) percent reduction in water use.
  • Use of landscape irrigation systems for all other customers shall be limited between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. no more than three nights per week.
  • Restaurants and other food establishments shall only serve and refill water upon request.

The following are State mandated permanent restrictions:

  • Hosing off sidewalks, driveways, hardscapes are strictly prohibited.
  • Washing automobiles/equipment with hoses not equipped with shut-off nozzles.
  • Watering lawns in a manner that causes runoff, or within 48 hours after measurable precipitation.

City Staff has been in regular contact with USBR regarding the estimated 2022 water year allocation.    On February 23, 2022, USBR outlined initial water allocations for Central Valley Project (CVP) contractors.  The initial water allocation provided to the City will be the minimum allowed, enough to meet public health and safety needs. The City has secured additional water supplies, however it will require a substantial reduction in water use by customers to meet the conditions of the City’s contract for the upcoming water year.    Depending on the precipitation outlook, the allocation from USBR can be further reduced.   We will know in the coming months if additional restrictions will be necessary.  At this time, we want our residents to be aware of the ongoing issues of water supply and begin the process of preparing for necessary water conservation efforts.

City staff prepared its new Water Shortage Contingency Plan and submitted it accordingly in June 2021.  This plan details the stages of action to be undertaken during a reduction of available water supply.  For a complete list of water conservation tips and efforts for the City of Shasta Lake, please visit our website at www.cityofshastalake.org.