As we look toward a future shaped by climate change, our ability to conserve and manage water will define the health of the Gardens and our broader environment. That’s why we’re introducing an ambitious and innovative stormwater capture project.
This project will reduce the amount of water Descanso needs to purchase by an estimated 50 percent. This groundbreaking system will capture water from the Winery Creek Channel, filter it, and store it in an underground cistern, turning what would have been storm drain runoff into a reliable, sustainable source of irrigation. The impact is substantial: Up to 220,000 cubic feet of water captured per year. That’s more than 4 million gallons.
Along with water conservation, the project allows Descanso to become part of the firefighting plan for LA County. The water stored in the lake and cistern will be available to local firefighters if needed.
As Californians, we understand the importance of water. From years of drought to seasons of intense rain, the question of how we use and protect this resource has never been more urgent. This project is not only practical—it’s visionary.
You can make a difference. Your support helps the garden grow.
FAQs
How will the water be treated and monitored?
The collected stormwater will be filtered via a pre-treatment device to remove debris, sediment, zinc, and bacteria before being stored in an underground cistern.
The treated water will meet spray irrigation requirements regulated by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
How will this help with fire prevention?
We are exploring ways to be part of the LA County fire support system. The water being stored in the cistern and lake will be made available for firefighting when necessary.