Tulare, Visalia call on residents for water conservation measures

Meade Trueworthy
Updated ·2 min read
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It's that time of year again, make sure your sprinklers are off so you don't get a fine.

Dec. 1 marked the start of the Visalia’s winter watering schedule, which comes a month after Tulare already asked residents to cut most water use.

While 2023 has brought heavy rain, including a .25-inch in November, the groundwater table across Tulare County remains low. Cities rely on that water to provide it to residents through Cal Water and city of Tulare's public works.

"Water saving measures are in place to ensure Visalia follows statewide conservation regulations," Visalia city officials said.

Visalians can use drip irrigation and perform handheld watering on landscaped or vegetated areas any day of the week before the hours of 8 a.m. and after the hours of 6 p.m. Irrigating with a watering can or hose that has a positive shut-off nozzle is allowed any time.

Visalia is currently in a Stage 2 Water Alert, which brings no sprinkler irrigation in the months of December, January, and February. No watering of lawns is allowed, and the use of sprinkler irrigation is not permitted any day of the week through Feb. 29, 2024.

While early 2023 brought heavy rain, the groundwater table isn't at level either city wants. Water saving measures are in place to ensure Visalia and Tulare follow statewide conservation regulations.

"In observance of the city of Visalia Water Conservation Ordinance, all citizens, landscapers, gardeners, and business owners that oversee watering of homes or properties are asked to remember that every drop counts," city official said. "Adherence to the Water Conservation Ordinance is required, wasting water is subject to a violation notice, citation and fine."

City of Visalia releases watering restrictions.
City of Visalia releases watering restrictions.

Tips to keeping plants and lawns alive while conserving water:

  • Start with preparing your soil

  • Select plants that are designed for winter growth

  • Plan ahead with seeds, sow in pots

  • Smart pruning is key

  • Remove all leaves and debris from your lawn to allow rainfall to soak in

For more information, visit www.visalia.city/savewater or contact the City of Visalia Water Conservation Division at 559-713-4531.

This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Tulare, Visalia ask residents to cut water use