Calif. Drought Causes Pond Dry-Out

Rob Turner, El Cajon's director of public works, said 350,000 gallons of water are required to refill the pond and waterfalls when they're drained - an exorbitant amount during a drought. A major repair would cost more than $1 million, Turner said, while a design that would provide more space for benches and tables would cost about $1.7 million to design and build.

For 32 years, a pond and waterfalls in front of the El Cajon City Hall in Southern California have provided a peaceful spot for ducks to swim and for people to enjoy the sounds of gurgling water.

Because of high maintenance costs and the worsening drought, city officials are now considering taking out the duck pond and reducing the size of the other water features at City Hall.

Rob Turner, El Cajon's director of public works, said the pond and waterfalls cost about $50,000 a year to maintain. They're leaking, require draining about once a year, and suffer from plumbing and electrical problems.

The duck pond would be filled in and replaced with benches and tables, providing a spot where events such as a farmers market or performances could be held.

However, a waterfall spilling over rocks just off Main Street would remain. The bottom of the waterway could potentially be lined with rocks so that it would still be attractive if the waterfall had to be shut down in more severe drought conditions.

California is indeed in a state of drought and, as a result, and it is important to recycle and conserve as much water as possible in your landscape during these hot summer months.

Source: signonsandiego.com.