As California endures its third year of a historic drought, a recent record dry stretch has led to residents increasing water use despite a call from Gov. Gavin Newsom for additional conservation.

In March, water consumption increased statewide by almost 19 percent compared to March 2020, said Marielle Rhoderio, a research data specialist with the State Water Resources Control Board.

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Kiley Russell writes primarily for Local News Matters on issues related to equity and the environment. A Bay Area native, he has lived most of his life in Oakland. He studied journalism at San Francisco State University, worked for the Associated Press and the former Contra Costa Times, among other outlets. He has covered everything from state legislatures, local governments, federal and state courts, crime, growth and development, political campaigns of various stripes, wildfires and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.