Cemeteries are synonymous with lush, green and well-watered lawns – even in drought-ridden Southern California. But the state’s first mandatory water restrictions are starting to have an effect on all that green. Rosemead’s Pioneer Cemetery in Savannah Memorial Park is experiencing the challenge of cutting down on water firsthand. One member of the board is totally enthusiastic about the transformation and talks about future stunning visuals. Another one whose ancestors have been buried here since 1850 is ready to cry. She talks about history, family and of being tired of all the weeds and mulch. She also does some guerilla watering. Volunteers help with the transfromation but admit: they prefer to sit on grass when visiting loved ones at a cemetery. 
USC Professor David Sloane explains the origins of the lawn tradition that does not fit the California climate.