Part 8/9:
Early Successes and a Future of Adaptation
The effectiveness of these sponge initiatives was tested recently, as Los Angeles experienced unprecedented rainfall within a short period. The city successfully captured over 8.6 billion gallons of stormwater, enough to supply water for over 100,000 households for an entire year.
As California's climate continues to evolve, it remains undeniable that Los Angeles will need to lean more heavily on innovative water management strategies. The story of how this city has been shaped by water—both historically and in contemporary context—will undoubtedly unfold as efforts to adapt, restore, and renew its water infrastructure continue.