By Kimber Lopez
Santa Fe is a front-runner in effective water conservation and drought management programs. We can take pride in knowing to shut off the water while brushing our teeth, not watering outdoor plants during the heat of the day, re-using water when applicable, decreasing our annual water diversions, and generally being water-conscious in our day-to-day activities. Although our water usage is far lower than the national average [see water conservation stats on the next page], growing population, climate change, periodic droughts, and economic considerations remind us that water is our most valuable resource to protect. Northern New Mexico municipalities continue to research, learn, educate, and create financial incentives to save water today so we have water tomorrow. Water Conservation Starts At Home Flush Less Water: Toilet flushing accounts for 27 percent of household water use. (American Water Works Association). Participate in the City Residential Toilet Rebate Program and receive a $175 rebate for purchasing a high-efficiency toilet (HET). HETs save 20 percent more water than a low-flow toilet. Wash Without Waste: The clothes washer is the second largest water user in most households. Participate in the City Clothes Washer Rebate Program and receive $150 or $350 rebate on your water bill for purchasing a tier 3 high-efficiency washer. Tier 3 models use less than 15 gallons per load while typical top-loading models use 40 gallons per load. Harvest The Rain: Participate in the City Rainwater Have Rebate Program and receive a $12, $15, or $50 rebate for the purchase of up to four rain barrels. Or install an underground water harvesting system and receive a rebate of $.25 per gallon of the cistern’s capacity. Monitor Plant Needs: Many residents have xeric landscapes and drought-tolerant plants but still water excessively. Cut back on watering, especially after the first freeze. Monitor your plants and water only as needed. Fix The Leaks: The typical home loses 2,000 to 20,000 gallons of water per year due to leaks. Check household appliances, fixtures, and water meters regularly to avoid water loss.
Thank You, Santa Fe It was a year for the record books.
The National Weather Service recently confirmed the 24 months between August 2010 and 2012 were the hottest and driest in New Mexico’s history. But you took the challenge and kept Santa Fe water use down. Average daily use per person was 107 gallons, way below the national average of 150 gallons and among the best in the West. The City of Santa Fe’s Water Utility’s total water production for 2011 was under 10,000 acre-feet. Your efforts will pay off, not just for the future — but for you, right now. Not only will you save money on your water bill but the City has rebates and incentives that reward you for rainwater harvesting systems and high-efficiency toilets and clothes washers. For information on the rebate program, water-saving tips, water-use rules, and all about water conservation in Santa Fe, visit www.santafenm.gov/waterconservation.
Save Water Santa Fe ns Le erv e Educate
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Santa Fe Water Conservation Program santafenm.gov/waterconservation
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City of Santa Fe Water Conservation Office 505.955.4225 76 ecotrendsource.com