LOS ANGELES (KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO)  -- Water has been a looming concern for Angelenos since the city's creation. The latest plan to ensure the water needs of the city are met will be unveiled today by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the Department of Water and Power.

LA's collective thirst is expected to grow by 15 percent in the next 20 years. DWP and city bosses say they have a $1 billion solution.

The new water plan emphasizes aggressive conservation and water recycling. Orange County recently implemented a wastewater recycling program, and Los Angeles may be next; city leaders will be hard pressed to get water drinkers past a significant "yuck" factor.

``L.A.'s future depends on our willingness to adopt an ethic of sustainability,'' Villaraigosa said. ``If we don't commit ourselves to conserving and recycling water, we will tap ourselves out.

DWP will drop about $2 million in a campaign to teach people how to better conserve water. The utility will also peddle instant rebates for water efficient household appliances, faucets, and toilets.