Irrigation Runoff Reduction Program

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runoff-residential Preventing irrigation runoff from entering our streets and storm drains helps conserve water and protect our waterways from pollution. All sources of pollution, including irrigation runoff, are prohibited from leaving your property (San Marcos Municipal Code: Chapter 14.15 Storm Water Management and Discharge Control).

Irrigation runoff can pick up pollutants that accumulate on the ground like dirt, bacteria, trash, and motor oil, and carry them into the nearest storm drain. Because irrigation runoff is not treated at a treatment plant, it can transport pollutants to creeks, rivers, and the Pacific Ocean.

Water Conservation and Water Quality

When we use less water, we are also taking the initiative to reduce water pollution. When water discharges occur, and it is not raining (i.e., irrigation runoff and car washing), it not only wastes water, but it transports pollutants from street curb gutters into the storm drain system that leads to creeks and then directly to the Pacific Ocean.

What can you do to help reduce pollutants?

There are multiple techniques that you can utilize to conserve water and prevent pollution, including:

Irrigate efficiently

Install Smart Irrigation Controllers

Smart Irrigation Controllers have internal clocks and sensors that will turn off the sprinklers in response to environmental changes. If it is raining, too windy, or too cold, the smart irrigation control sprinklers will automatically shut off.

Aim your sprinklers at your landscape areas, avoiding sidewalks or pavement

By merely adjusting the direction of your sprinklers, you can save water, prevent water pollution from runoff, keep your landscapes healthy and save money

Adjust timer for your sprinklers

Landscape areas absorb the water they need to stay healthy within a few minutes of turning on the sprinklers. Time your sprinklers, when water begins running off your landscape areas, you can turn them off. Your timer can be set to water your site for this duration every time and prevent excess runoff.

Use low flow irrigation

Switching to low flow irrigation (drip) can help control flows and direction of irrigation runoff. It also uses less water.

Weed-free landscaping

Soil amendments

Good Housekeeping

Routinely sweep sidewalks and pavement. Do not wash surfaces with water unless it is collected for disposal or directed to landscaped areas.
Keep sites clean by regularly removing trash, dirt, leaves, and debris.
Regularly inspect site storm drain systems and identify sources of pollution.
Cover outdoor materials with a roof (permanent) or tarp (temporary) and elevate materials.
Store all hazardous materials in designated areas with cover and secondary containment.
Keep trash enclosures, dumpsters, grease bins clean.
Dumpsters and grease bin lids must be kept closed.

Project-Based Solutions

Water Conservation Help

There are numerous simple ways to reduce the amount of water we use at home, both inside and out. Save Our Water provides multiple tips as well as other news and information regarding water conservation.

Another great resource that provides conservation tips, device rebates, and other water-efficiency ideas for both residential and business properties is the San Diego County Water Authority Water Smart Program.

The City of San Marcos, via the Vallecitos Water District, Vista Irrigation District, Rincon del Diablo Municipal Water District and Olivenhain Municipal Water District, participates in several FREE incentive programs to help residents conserve water resources. These programs include:

WaterSmart Checkup Program: The WaterSmart Checkup Program is a free service that provides sites with the opportunity to receive site-specific water-saving recommendations. Participants will benefit from certified irrigation professionals’ perspectives and have the chance to decide if and when to implement the provided suggestions. This program is made possible by the San Diego County Water Authority, its participating member agencies, and a California Department of Water Resources grant. Participation is limited.
SoCal Water$mart Program ( Residential | Commercial ): The SoCal Water$mart Program is a rebate program that effectively achieves water conservation savings. There are a limited number of rebates available and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis until funding is exhausted. This program is made possible by the Metropolitan Water District.

San Marcos, CA