Roadshow: Caltrans cuts water use by 30 percent

Q I was very troubled to see this sight along southbound Interstate 880 after the Bay Bridge maze. On the curve before the first Oakland exit, there is a LAWN planted. Really? In a drought, Caltrans plants lawn? You've got to be kidding me. Can you find out the rationale for this? Absolutely shocking.

Rick Magarian

Alameda

A This is part of a stormwater management treatment plan to collect runoff from the freeway, and the area will not be watered. The road is slanted so that the all water runoff pollutants are collected into the approximately 1-mile-long treatment area. Caltrans has curbed water use by 30 percent _ its goal is 50 percent _ but will complete what it considers essential landscaping to prevent water pollution or erosion. They will use mulch or gravel, or drought-tolerant native or nonthirsty plants.

In addition, the California Transportation Commission has allocated $47 million in emergency funds to continue installing smart sprinklers on state property that automatically adjust to weather conditions, soil moisture or broken pipes. And 34 landscaping jobs have been postponed.

If you see any broken water pipes or leaking irrigation systems, go to http://www.dot.ca.gov/ and click the "Be a Water Watcher" icon to submit a maintenance service request.

Q Oh Gary, the irony! On a trip to Fresno I see the roadside message "SEVERE DROUGHT. LIMIT OUTDOOR WATERING," which I don't have a problem with, until I see the same message on Highway 152 nestled among acre after acre of almond trees. Might as well change it to read: "SAVE A NUT. DON'T FLUSH."

Jeff Adams

San Jose

A Almonds are thirsty. It takes 1.1 gallons to bring one almond to maturity.

See the original post here:
Roadshow: Caltrans cuts water use by 30 percent