Conservation
While Los Osos and Edna Road areas experienced historical precipitation in 2023, the rainfall did not sufficiently recharge local groundwater basins, the area’s primary water source. Until conditions improve, communities dependent on groundwater remain in Stage Two, and mandatory restrictions with surcharges for water use above allocations remain in effect. Surcharges are the most effective tool to protect local groundwater supplies, especially during summer.
Important Drought Notice:
Golden State Water Company’s Edna Road and Los Osos customers are required to reduce water use by 20% compared 2020.
| System | Reduction goal | Actual reduction * |
|---|---|---|
| Edna | 20% | -9% |
| Los Osos | 20% | 6% |
*Actual reduction (compared to 2020 usage)
In order to achieve the mandatory reductions, the following Staged Mandatory Conservation and Rationing plan has been filed for the local water system.
Golden State Water has activated its Staged Mandatory Water Conservation & Rationing (Schedule 14.1) filings that outline restrictions, water allocations, enforcement measures and surcharges designed to achieve reductions due to water supply shortages or to achieve identified water usage goals established by an authorized government agency or official.
The Los Osos community is in Stage 2. Under this stage, all outdoor irrigation is limited to two days per week. Outdoor irrigation is allowed only after 7PM and before 8AM, according to the schedule below.
Golden State Water customers who do not meet the Stage 2 mandatory 20% reduction in water use may be charged a drought surcharge of up to $2.50 per Ccf (or 748 gallons) for all usage in excess of the customer’s usage allocation. Golden State Water is implementing surcharges in Edna Road but not Los Osos. While Golden State Water is not currently implementing surcharges in Los Osos, we are closely monitoring water supply conditions and customer water usage and may implement surcharges if it becomes necessary to spur action and additional conservation.