There's no avoiding it: California properties need to cut their water use. One strategy is replacing thirsty grass with artificial turf.

That's what the Hotel Fullerton in Fullerton has done, with Edward James Olmos on hand at the recent unveiling of its new artificial greenery to help publicize the strategy. "Stop pouring water on the ground," the actor urged. Artificial turf saves more water than you'd expect: 1.3 million gallons each year, which is a lot when you consider that four square feet of real grass, barely enough to stand on, needs 240 gallons of water a year to survive. Five Star Turf Commercial installed the hotel's new turf, which it says costs $8 to $10/SF and will last 15 to 20 years.

Pictured: the artifical turf at the Hotel Fullerton. NAIOP San Diego anticipates the impact of the water crisis on commercial properties (which goes for all of SoCal): landscape irrigation and ornamental fountains must be turned off; there will be a mandatory 20% reduction in usage and aggressive rate increases; and stiff financial penalties for noncompliance. But a few waivers will be granted, such as for hospitals or other healthcare properties.