California is facing its worst drought in the past 100 years.The Aquarium has implemented several measures to illustrate solutions to Southern California’s ongoing water shortage. Combined these measures have helped the Aquarium reduce its water usage one-third.
What we do
- Since 2002 the Aquarium has incorporated several strategies to reduce water usage. They include installing dual‐flush toilets, waterless urinals, and touch-free sensored faucets saving the Aquarium 960,000 gallons of water a year.
- There are 6,000 square feet of gardens installed at the Aquarium that feature drought-tolerant and native plants.
Our Earth-Friendly Garden and Watershed Native Plant Garden thrive on little water and also create shelter and provide food for birds, bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. The installation of drip irrigation helps to irrigate the gardens efficiently so minimal water is wasted. A weather-based irrigation controller customizes the watering schedule on a daily basis for the drought-tolerant plants and the minimal lawn to ensure all the areas receive just enough water, but not too much.
What you can do
- Up to 70% of your residential water usage could be to water your lawn.
Replace grass lawns with drought-tolerant plants and sprinklers with drip irrigation. Consider a ground cover of artificial turf or rockwork. If you live in Long Beach, you can receive up to $3,500 for replacing your lawn by participating in Long Beach Water Department’s Lawn-to-Garden program. Need help designing the garden? Go to the Aquarium’s Design Your Own Green Garden tool or the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s Bewaterwise.com for great ideas and resources.
- Install water-saving showerheads, high efficiency toilets (HET), and low flow aerators for your sinks in your homes.
Combined these fixtures could cut your water consumption in half. Encourage your employer or property manager to install these water-saving features. They will both save money and help raise awareness about water conservation and California’s drought.
- Give garden gifts!
Instead of sending an expensive cut-flower arrangement that has a short life opt for drought-resistant plants that your recipient can plant in their garden. Add in a pair of garden gloves to give it an extra special touch!
