Public Works Department
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Fall & Winter Water Use Efficiency and Conservation |
As the summer irrigation season comes to an end, it is recommended that residents modify watering schedules to reflect the seasonal changes of fall and winter. The shorter days and cooler temperatures mean your lawn and garden will need watering less frequently and for shorter periods of time. Gradually reducing your watering over the next several weeks will "harden off" your plants for winter's cold. We do not recommend any outside watering after October 31. 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 45 minutes 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. Amounts can be reduced gradually to harden off the lawn and prepare it for winter. The watering duration and times per week should be gradually reduced down to zero by October 31. |
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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. Fall/Winter tree watering guidelines |
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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 can be washed. Use water conservatively. |
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Water Features |
Allowed to be operated |
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The City and County of Broomfield will continue to enforce its Misuse of Treated Water ordinance (excess application of water which results in a flow exceeding 5 gallons per minute leaving the property). As fall and winter approach, outdoor watering plays less of a role and indoor conservation efforts come more into focus. Any indoor 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 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’s City and 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. |
| Hey, kids! Test your WaterSense! Use what you've
learned to play this fun game or
take a quiz!
Calculate your household's "water footprint" (the total amount of water YOU use)! You'll see lots of water conservation tips, too! |
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The City/County has also created a Water Conservation Hotline. The Hotline has up-to-date information and a voicemail box that you can leave any questions you might have and/or any requests for additional information. The HOTLINE NUMBER IS 303.438.6210. |
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Related Links: American Water Works Association Green Industries of Colorado (GreenCO) Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District WaterWiser: The Water Efficiency Clearinghouse |