Story Archive

Parched

California has been suffering severe drought conditions for five years now, and outdoor watering is severely restricted. So residents are mighty upset that the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has been watering their lawn — even though it’s artificial turf. “They’re quick to fine us for certain things: over-watering or whatever,” grumped Amber Gordon, who lives near a DWP substation. “That kind of raises questions.” The DWP was asked for comment. “We’re rinsing the grass to make it more sanitary,” claimed DWP’s director of water operations, Richard Harasick. Wait... what? Harasick says unwashed artificial turf gets a “foul smell.” That sounds like double-talk until he relents: “We’re really just trying to wash out the dog pee.” (RC/KCAL Los Angeles) ...As it often comes down to in the city: curb your dog.