Using Water Wisely Outdoors is Theme of Smart Irrigation Month
Tucson Water and water providers across the nation are promoting Smart Irrigation Month throughout July and offering as many resources as possible to help customers save water and money during a time of peak demand.
“Put every drop of water to use by minimizing evaporation and waste” is one of the messages of the Irrigation Association, which founded Smart Irrigation Month in July 2005.
Mayor Bob Walkup will issue a proclamation at the July 6 meeting of the Mayor and Council, noting that “well-functioning and properly-maintained irrigation systems deliver the right amount of water at the right time.”
“Our customers continue to exemplify responsibility in their per capita water use,” said Fernando Molina, Tucson Water Public Information Officer. “But the inevitable fact is that in the extreme heat leading up to the start of the monsoon, outdoor water use peaks. Irrigating wisely and efficiently now and throughout the year helps assure a reliable water supply for our region.”
Peak water usage days for the previous three years were 135 million gallons on June 29, 2010; 134 million gallons on June 23, 2009; and 141 million gallons on June 23, 2008. Daily water usage is less than 110 million gallons for much of the year. In late May and early June, the demand ranges from 120 to 145 million gallons a day. The peak usage day so far this year is 138 million gallons on June 27.
Molina encourages residents to visit area plumbing supply stores for information and demonstrations on the latest technology and techniques available to best serve irrigation needs.
To promote Smart Irrigation Month, Tucson Water has created a web page featuring several publications that can be downloaded or requested by postal mail, information about free workshops and classes on outdoor landscaping and maintenance, and a link to the Irrigation Association’s coloring and puzzle book for children. For all this and more, go to Hot Topics.