As Southern California enters the peak of summer, water agencies, utilities, and residents are turning their attention to one of the region’s most pressing challenges—sustainable water use. July is officially recognized as Smart Irrigation Month, a national initiative launched by the Irrigation Association in 2005 to raise awareness about the value of efficient irrigation practices. … In Southern California, where outdoor water use accounts for more than 50% of residential consumption (Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, 2022), Smart Irrigation Month comes at a critical time. With July historically being the month of highest water demand, communities from Irvine to the Inland Empire are rallying around the message: Use water wisely, every drop counts.