The Irrigation Association (IA) has expressed apprehension regarding California Assembly Bill 1573 in a letter submitted to state senators Dave Min and Kelly Sevarto. The bill's provisions restrict the use of "traditional overhead sprinklers" and require the adoption of "water-efficient irrigation devices" in new or renovated landscapes. Nathan Bowen, Vice President of Advocacy and Public Affairs for the Irrigation Association, emphasized the association's concerns.

"While we support enhanced water conservation and efficient irrigation in California, this bill falls short of that goal," Bowen stated. "This bill enacts prescriptive product standards in legislation that are not based on solid science and real-world data."

 

The Irrigation Association's letter highlighted how the bill would bypass existing legislation and impose unreasonable mandates on local irrigation and landscaping. The IA emphasized the importance of collaborative and cross-sector development, citing the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. They urged legislators to reconsider the provisions and engage with industry experts and stakeholders to find sustainable and effective solutions.

Assembly member Laura Friedman, the author of AB 1573, defended the bill, claiming it would benefit the broader community. She emphasized the potential of landscaping to conserve water, support biodiversity, and connect people with nature.

In response, Bowen reaffirmed the industry's commitment to investing in new product development and contributing expertise. However, he emphasized the bill's failure to engage the industry in meaningful dialogue and bypass existing mechanisms aimed at enhancing water use efficiency.

The outcome of California Bill 1573 and its potential impact on irrigation practices and water conservation in the state remain to be seen as stakeholders continue to discuss the bill's provisions.

https://irrigationandlighting.org/news/ia-pens-letter-expressing-concern-with-california-assembly-bill-1573/