EBMUD enacts mandatory outdoor water restrictions

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- Mandatory water rationing is now on tap in the East Bay, but the new limits are not across the board. Instead water users will face restrictions on outside use.

The city of Alameda saw what the drought was doing and decided to take action by implementing mandatory water conservation back in January.

"We've actually lost a few trees here and there, but that's the price you're going to pay," said John McDonald, City of Alameda Park Manager.

Other cities have not been as conservative, so the East Bay Municipal Water District took action on Tuesday.

"East Bay MUD today is going to declare a water emergency and enact mandatory outdoor watering restrictions for all of its customers," said Abby Figueroa of EBMUD.

The tough new rules outline when, where and how the water districts' 1.3 million customers can use water.

EBMUD has placed the conservation guidelines on its website and introduced a new page to report water abuse issues. They insist the goal is not to punish customers, but rather to educate them.

Alana Ellis has got the message. It has been nearly three months since her car has had a bath and when she washes it, she's sure to use this hose with a shut-off valve to reduce water waste..

"I try to think about it and help as much as I can," said Ellis.

The state has asked that the mandatory water restrictions remain in effect until next April.