California’s state capitol is no exception to calls from Governor Jerry Brown to stall the use of water in one of the worst droughts in the state’s history. In fact, the capitol’s browning lawns are among the once-lush but now-dead greenery which are being allowed to wither away in order to satisfy calls to decrease the state’s water consumption by 20%.
Not all life will be left to perish, however. According to the Los Angeles Times, historic trees and some other unique plants in the capitol’s 40-acres park will continue to receive water and be safeguarded “so that they can be enjoyed by future generations” said Fred Klass, director of the Department of General Services.
Among some newly-adopted watering techniques to conserve water while maintaining 85% of the capitol’s greenery is drip irrigation. Signs adorning the patchy, yellowing state capitol grounds are meant to serve as a reminder to visitors to conserve water.
Last month, Brown issued an executive order to restaurants saying they should only offer water to patrons if they specifically ask for it.