Public Works Department
Environmental Services

Summer 2011 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 there will be drought conditions in 2011.  

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 2011 water supply is promising for Broomfield, we believe it is 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

Goal

Reduce normal outside water use by 10%

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. 

Irrigation Window

Do not water between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

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.

New Seed or Sod

Allowed. Water within the “Irrigation Window” guideline.

Vehicle Washing

Allowed. Recommend washing vehicles no more than once per week.

Impervious Surfaces

Patios, driveways, sidewalks and buildings may be washed. Use water conservatively. Sweeping with a broom is preferred.

Water Features

Allowed to be operated without restriction.

Other Watering

If the next few months are hot and dry, new turf that was installed this spring or in fall of 2010 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  (excess application of water that results in a flow exceeding 5 gallons per minute leaving the property).

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.  

Hey, kids!

Test your WaterSense! Play this fun game!

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:

American Water Works Association

Green Industries of Colorado (GreenCO)

Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District

EPA Water Use Efficiency

Water Sense - What You Can Do

WaterWiser: The Water Efficiency Clearinghouse

State Regulations on Conservation Plans

Alliance for Water Efficiency