Long Beach's YouTube Videos Persuade Residents to Conserve Water

"Water consumption has dropped markedly in the three months since Long Beach became the first sizable city in California to mandate restrictions, city reports show. September water use set a 10-year record low, dropping 8% from the same month last year. It fell 5% in October and 6% in November, another record." In contrast, voluntary restrictions in Los Angeles led to a one percent increase in water usage; San Diego's request for residents to reduce water usage by 20 gallons per day also had little effect.

Long Beach's campaign has no pricey television commercials. "Conservation spots run on 14 cable channels, and residents can choose to receive 'e-watering updates' via e-mail. Free courses teach gardeners how to conserve. Car dealerships show water alerts on lighted signs along the freeway."

Most water was saved by Long Beach residents who cut back on lawn watering. Watering is allowed only three days a week, only at night and only for 10 minutes. "Using regular hoses to wash sidewalks, patios and parking lots is also banned, a point driven home in another YouTube video that shows a woman hosing down a driveway, with a yellow smiley-face logo added to shield her identity."