The road to California's mandatory water cuts

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Dry cracked earth is visible on the banks of Shasta Lake at Bailey Cove Aug. 31, 2014 in Lakehead, California. As the severe drought in California continues for a third straight year, water levels in the State's lakes and reservoirs are reaching historic lows. — Dry cracked earth is visible on the banks of Shasta Lake at Bailey Cove Aug. 31, 2014 in Lakehead, California.

Max Gomberg with the State Water Resources Control Board explains the details of developing the state's first mandatory water cuts.

The first mandatory water cutbacks in state history were approved by state officials after a marathon meeting Tuesday night.

The State Water Resources Control Board voted unanimously on a plan to reduce water use in California cities 25 percent by the end of next February. The action comes as California suffers through the fourth year of a crippling drought.

Max Gomberg, scientist with the State Water Resources Control Board, discusses the details.