Public Works Department
Environmental Services
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Summer 2008-Water Use Efficiency and Conservation
Most front range cities rely on
runoff from the snow pack for their water supplies. March and April
typically produce the greatest amount of snow pack on both the east and
west slopes of the mountains. The depth and moisture content of the snow
pack determines whether or not the drought continues.
Broomfield receives its water
supply from two primary sources: the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy
District’s (NCWCD) Colorado-Big Thompson water system and the Denver Water
system. Although the 2008 water supply is promising for Broomfield, we
believe this is a prudent to continue our voluntary water conservation
program. The community goal of the voluntary program is to
reduce outside water use by 10%. The table below gives guidelines to
help us achieve this goal.
Voluntary
Water Conservation Guidelines
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Goal |
Reduce normal outside water use by 10% |
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Lawn Watering |
Water only when necessary. Water each lawn area or
sprinkler zone a maximum of approximately 45 minutes per week (for
example: 15 minutes 3 times per week, or 12 minutes 4 times per week). This amounts to about
1 inch of water each week which is enough to keep the grass in a
healthy, but not necessarily a lush green, condition. |
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Irrigation Window |
Do not water between 10 A.M. and 6 P.M. |
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Trees, Shrubs, Flowers |
Watering allowed at anytime. Use of a garden hose,
watering can, drip irrigation system, soaker hose or deep root feeder is
recommended in order to conserve water. |
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New Seed or Sod |
Allowed. Water within the “Irrigation Window”
guideline. |
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Vehicle Washing |
Allowed. Recommend to wash vehicles no more than
once per week. |
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Impervious Surfaces |
Patios, driveways, sidewalks and buildings may be
washed. Use water conservatively. Sweeping with a broom is
preferred. |
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Water Features |
Allowed to be operated without restriction. |
The City & County of Broomfield will enforce its
Misuse of Treated Water ordinance (excess application of water which
results in a flow exceeding 5 gallons per minute leaving the property.
Other Watering
If
the next few months are hot and dry, new turf that was installed this
spring or in fall
of 2007 may need some supplemental irrigation until roots are
established. All of Broomfield’s customers are encouraged to water trees and
shrubs as needed. Trees and shrubs in City and County parks will also be
watered as needed if conditions do turn hot and dry.
This request is strictly for voluntary compliance at this time. As
always, Broomfield will be enforcing its
"Misuse
of Treated Water" Ordinance.
Any other water conservation measures that you can implement will be
appreciated. Here are some conservation tips compiled for you from
several sources including the Environmental Protection Agency, the American
Water Works Association and Denver Water:
Water Use Efficiency in your HOME
Water Use Efficiency for your LANDSCAPING
Water Use Efficiency for BUSINESSES
Remember that a little effort and a little common sense
will make a big difference in conserving this most valuable resource. Just following these simple tips can save
thousands of gallons every year in every household and/or business. For more water
conservation information visit the related web links listed below, and stop by the
City & County Building and pick
up your Free Home Water Conservation Kit. It contains water saving devices
and instructions for your own personal home water audit.
The City/County has also created a Water Conservation Hotline. The Hotline has up-to-date information and a voice mailbox
that allows you to
leave any questions you might have and/or any requests for additional
information. The HOTLINE NUMBER IS
303-438-6210.
Related Links:
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