Each year, nearly 200 tons of dirt is used to help turn the city into a scene out of the 1850s. The dirt performs a functional — as well as visual — role, providing a safe foundation for horses, wagons and performances in the streets.
But it takes up to 3,000 gallons a day to keep the dirt damp, and up to 100,000 gallons of water to clean up after the event, according to the bureau.
“The volume of water necessary to return Old Sacramento to its pre-event condition is beyond significant,” Hammond wrote in a statement. “Dirt-covered streets is clearly not an option during the continuing drought which impacts the event on multiple levels including the safety and well-being of the horses, riders and performers."
Dry conditions could also heighten the danger of cannon and weaponry demonstrations during the event, officials said.
