We've been hearing a lot about how 2007 is well on its way to becoming the driest year since annual rainfall has been recorded (only 29% of normal!).

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is now asking LA residents to do their part in helping conserve water this summer by reducing water use by 10% by taking shorter showers, not hosing down sidewalks, not using the toilet as wastebasket, less garden and lawn watering, operating washing machine and dishwaters with only full loads and to fix leaky faucets and pipes. Whether there is a drought or not, water conservation is a good idea for a city whose water needs are growing each and every day. Here are some more indoor water conservation tips and hoping this summer doesn't get too hot. [via Los Angeles Times]

"We must continue to use water wisely and within our means of water availability," said DWP Board President H. David Nahai in a statement. "That means rather than seek out new sources of water, our goal is to meet future demand through conservation and other water saving measures."