Drought

Coordinate among city, town and county government public works agencies, water utilities and other operators of water infrastructure to develop and maintain local and regional inventories of existing Determine if alternative, acute-drought solutions, such as trucking potable water to rural users, are adequate given the projected frequency of severe drought events. As extreme heat becomes more common, encourage farmers and ranchers to plant drought tolerant and native trees for livestock. Develop or update drought response plans to include historical data water usage and drought projections. Consider whether the existing plan needs to change thresholds or change response options. Conduct or update an area-wide hydrological assessment to identify alternative water sources. Create a prioritized list of sources based on reliability and cost. Follow-up with a feasibility assessment Implement proactive regional community planning and identify critical customers (i.e.scenario training, emergency mutual aid, continuity planning). Promote water conservation through updates to municipal irrigation systems. Build or expand additional hardscaped water storage reservoirs. Include water efficient strategies (i.e. efficient landscapes, sprinkler systems, xeriscape, cooling tower systems) in public awareness campaigns. To prepare for potential droughts, coordinate with owners of winter recreation areas and water recreation areas to support the development of recreational activities that are less dependent on snowpack To prepare for droughts, ensure drinking water infrastructure and sources are ready for areas that have increased, or will soon have an increase, in population. Design and construct additional Capital Improvements - Green & Gray Infrastructure to provide a reliable water supply to 1.7 million customers. Prepare agreements with government or nongovernmental partners to truck water in before the need occurs. Ensure agreement terms are adequate given the projected frequency of severe drought events. Conduct a well water analysis to determine variables associated with changing water quality. Work with utility companies to increase energy sources that do not depend on water. Increase water storage ambition over time to adapt as the climate changes. Educate the community about the importance of conserving water. Determine where medical needs are (e.g. dialysis) and how to notify public of droughts. Identify existing underperforming infrastructure and implement adaptable infrastructure strategies that facilitate targeted investments, allow managed performance, and achieve greater flexibility in system Through policies or incentives, ensure the viability of neighborhood-based gardens that contribute to local food production and beneficial pollinator habitat.