The need for a 21st century water management policy for California is abundantly clear. Not only is a vision required, but also the leadership to overcome myriad bureaucratic and political obstacles to develop the necessary legislation to support the policy and implement it. The resort to emergency mode earlier this year underscores the lack of a clear long-term plan to guide the competing demands for water in this state. The issue is daunting, and its complexity has immobilized decision-makers. The purpose of this paper is to suggest one pathway out that is quickly and easily achieved and can serve as a starting point, i.e., the immediate introduction of incentives for graywater and rainwater harvesting in California…