The Agency recognizes that water conservation is a key component in our water supply portfolio.  Our water conservation and education master plan acknowledges that water education is at the heart of water conservation. That is, residents and businesses will be more likely to conserve water when they understand how important it is, how prone we are to shortages, and how far our water has to travel in order to get to the Pass.
 
In our region, nearly two-thirds of the water used in any residence over the course of a year is used outside—for irrigation, car washing, etc.  It is important that future development in the Pass include water conserving landscaping, “smart” controllers, and other outdoor water use efficiency techniques.  It is important for the public to understand that a yard can be attractive while at the same time using water more efficiently.  
 
In Spring 2009, the Agency relandscaped its front yard, taking out all of the grass that was originally there.  The landscaping includes the use of artificial grass in one area (see photos above).  The Agency also installed a “smart” irrigation controller that uses real-time weather data in deciding whether to turn the water on each day or not.  We did this to give local residents one idea of how to landscape a yard or garden using water efficient ideas and plants.  There are many other ways to include water efficient landscaping in your yard or at your business.  Click here to see other examples of how local residents have landscaped their yards using water efficient landscaping.
 
We want to educate all groups—school children, homeowners, business owners, service clubs, garden clubs, elected officials, etc.—on this important issue, as well as issues related to how we get our water here.  If you would like for a representative of the Agency to talk to your group or class, please contact us.
 
The websites below have good information on water conservation in general: