Additional Resources
The Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) offers the following additional resources to help all users save water.
Water Use Efficiency Master Plan
The Master Plan defines how MWDOC will comply with the state’s goal of a 20 percent reduction in municipal and industrial water use by the year 2020. The plan also provides a road map for Orange County to achieve higher levels of water use efficiency, and includes proposed programs and investments that will help ensure water reliability for the future.
Research Activities
MWDOC’s water use efficiency department participates in a variety of research activities. These research projects allow us to design and implement more effective water use efficiency programs that benefit all end users.
Orange County Surface Soil Textures Map
MWDOC and the Natural Resources Conservation Services have developed a surface soil textures map to help you determine the surface soil type at your home. Knowing your surface soil texture type will help you establish an appropriate watering schedule for your home landscape.
FREE Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) Certification
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MET), now offers FREE Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) certification classes for landscape professionals. Classes are open to any city staff, professional landscaper, water district employee, or maintenance personnel that would like to become a Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper.
Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and Guidelines
Cities and counties are required to adopt a Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. MWDOC worked with the Association of California Cities – Orange County, local cities and water agencies to develop a Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance specific to the needs of Orange County. The Guidelines for Implementation helps cities set guidelines for designing and approving landscape projects. The Worksheet can be opened in Excel.
Performance Based Irrigation Management Contract
MWDOC created the Performance Based Irrigation Management Contract (PBIMC) to help Homeowners Associations and property managers ensure their landscape is being watered efficiently. The PBIMC uses irrigation scheduling performance measures to define minimum irrigation efficiency standards that must be met by the landscape contractor.