SUBJECT: PRESENTATION
Title
2020 Water Conservation Programs Update
Body
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
PRESENTER: Tyler Kesler, Sustainability and Water Conservation Specialist
TIME ESTIMATE: 5 Min
only required for non-consent items
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Information only
Recommendation
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SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND OF SUBJECT MATTER: As approved in the 2020 budget, the water conservation programs for 2020 include the following:
- Slow the Flow Outdoor Irrigation Assessment Program
- Garden In A Box Xeriscape Garden Program
- Smart Irrigation Controller & Rain Sensor Installation Program
- High-Efficiency Washing Machine Rebate Program
- Live Like You Love It Education & Outreach Campaign
Beginning in 2004, the Town of Erie partnered with the Resource Central to provide outdoor inspections for commercial and residential irrigation systems. The outdoor irrigation inspections are designed to pinpoint inefficiencies in an irrigation system which contribute to water waste, unnecessary runoff, and increased run-times. This program is valuable in informing residents how to use their irrigation systems effectively and empower residents to save water. This water savings decreases demand on the Town’s infrastructure during the peak-demand season as well as gives homeowners and businesses another tool to conserve water and resources. These programs also meet conservation goals set by Northern Colorado Water Conservation District for the Windy Gap Project, Northern Integrated Supply Project, and the Town’s Water Conservation Plan.
In 2012, the Town added the Garden-In-A-Box Program to the menu of offered water conservation services. This program has been and continues to be a great success. Garden-In-A-Box is one of Resource Central’s most popular programs. Each year, they offer an array of do-it-yourself Xeric garden kits, created by professional landscape designers. These plant-by-number gardens can have a significant conservation impact needing 50-60% less watering when used to replace turf. They offer an aesthetically pleasing low-watering option that also attracts birds and a variety of pollinators. This step helps implement Resolution No. 19-90, adopted in June, to promote the use of native landscaping and low-irrigation practices.
Lastly, through Resource Central, the Town offers free installation for any smart irrigation control clock or rain sensor. This offering includes the permanent installation of technology that automatically saves residents water when it makes the most sense. The control clocks and rain sensors will water less, or simply not water, during high precipitation weather events. Offering free installations to interested residents will ensure these technologies are installed and activated properly, ensuring the most savings possible and best use of this resource.
We will also continue offering a $50 rebate on qualified Energy Star Certified HE Washing Machines and approved high-efficiency toilets. We will offer 50 rebates for each of these items.
New in 2020, the Town is partnering with Colorado WaterWise. Colorado WaterWise is a statewide nonprofit committed to connecting stakeholders, providing resources, and serving as the collaborative leader in the efficient use of urban water in Colorado. We will be promoting their Live Like You Love It education and outreach campaign and disseminating it to residents, businesses, and throughout the Town.
All programs continue to show strong participation from Town water customers as well as a commitment from the Board and staff to offer innovative and unique programs that employ best practices in water conservation. We are looking forward to another successful year of demand management of one of Erie’s most precious natural resources.