The following content is created in consultation with The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC San Diego's editorial staff. To learn more about their water rebates, visit bewaterwise.com.

As Southern Californians know all too well, water is a finite resource. We're currently in one of the worst droughts in the state's history, prompting Gov. Edmund G. Brown Jr. to declare a state-wide water emergency and calling on all residents to redouble their conservation practices.  

Luckily, conserving water can also save you money, and The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is here to help. Thanks to an increase in their valuable rebates budget, you can do your part in the conservation effort while also conserving your cash. Not only do these rebates make saving water affordable and sensible, but they're easier to get than ever before. 
 
Bewaterwise.com is an invaluable resource on how to save money this summer by reducing your water use in your home or business. To get you started, let's take a closer look on how you can take advantage of these amazing rebates. 
 
Turf Removal
Turf grass is one of the most water-intensive plants (not to mention expensive) in your landscape, consuming as much as 60 percent of a residential customer's water. That's why Metropolitan’s Board doubled their turf removal rebate to $2 per square foot, making it easier than ever to save money and contribute to conservation efforts. By replacing your grass with less thirsty alternatives like California Friendly® and drought-tolerant plants you can save water and money. Click here to learn more.
 
High-Efficiency Toilets and Clothes Washers
Of any appliance, toilets use the most water in your home. However, they can flush properly with far less water. High-efficiency toilets use 20 percent less water than standard toilets while still flushing the same amount of waste. In most cases, this equals a savings of over 8,000 gallons of water annually and up to $800 on your water bill over the lifetime of the product. High-efficiency clothes washers use up to 55 percent less water and 20 percent less energy than traditional top-loading washers. Rebates for water-saving washers start at $85. Click here to learn more.
 
Soil Moisture Sensor Systems 
If you use an automated sprinkler system, you might want to get a soil moisture sensor. A soil moisture sensor measures soil moisture content in the active root zone on your property, allowing your irrigation controller to bypass any section of your lawn where moisture levels are sufficient. This will help you save water and money while still keeping your lawn green and lush. Rebates start at $80. Click here to learn more.
 
Rain Barrels 
Collecting and re-using rainwater from gutters and downspouts for lawns and gardens minimizes the amount of water flowing into your storm drains, sewer systems and local waterways. Rebates start at $75 and, in some cases, can cover the majority of the cost for water-saving devices. Click here to learn more.
 
For a full listing of Metropolitan’s commercial and residential incentives, as well as more water-saving tips, visit bewaterwise.com.
 
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