Colo Springs 1998 WCPlan

• Project Type: Water Conservation Plan
• Project Name: Colorado Springs Utilities Water Conservation Plan
• Title: Water Conservation Plan
• Date: 1/31/1997
• County: El Paso
• Water Conservation - Doc Type: Complete Plan

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9

The YARDX program (pronounced "yards"), was begun in 1997 a joint project with
Metro Water Conservation Inc, and the US Bureau of Reclamation. This program
addresses quantifying water savings, cost of installing and maintaining a Xeriscape
landscape, This program will conclude in 2001.

C. Water-efficient industrial and commercial water using processes.

The Water Resources Department has worked with local industry to develop more
efficient industrial uses since 1995" The Utility operates its power generation plants at
zero-discharge.

D. Water reuse systems, both potable and non-potable

The City's reuse program was among the first in the nation, commencing in 1961. It
made use of treated wastewater for golf course, college campus, median, park and
cemetery irrigation. The Water Resources Department plans to expand this system, and
to make use of groundwater where practicable to supplement its potable supply in the
next five years,

E. Djstribution system leak repair

The City's distribution system is monitored daily manually; through 24 hour remote
monitoring of system pressures, flows and levels, and by portable ultrasonic leak
detection equipment.

F, Dissemination of information regarding water use efficiency measures, including
by public education, customer water use audits, and water-saving demonstrations.

The Water Resources Department has a broad education outreach to public schools,
libraries, businesses and citizen groups through speakers, workshops, seminars,
presentations, videos and brochures, Conservation materials are sent to all customers
twice yearly as "bill stuffers", beginning-in 1991, Curriculum was developed for K~ 12
students, beginning in 1994. All school districts in Colorado Springs participate, the
Water Resources Department provides teacher training"

Demonstrations of water efficient gardening are on going at the Xeriscape Demonstration
Garden which opened in 1992. The Operations Control Center adjacent to the Garden
serves as a Visitors' Center providing plant and lab tours, seminars and workshops on
many water-related topics,