Spring 2012 - 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 will determine whether or not there will be drought conditions in 2012.
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. These two providers will examine their projected water
availability for the remaining months of 2012 in mid-April, when the snow pack is better known. Since the actual snow pack
levels won't be known until April, Broomfield is asking its customers to voluntarily not water lawns until May 1.
Although Broomfield's water supply for 2012 is secure, we believe this is a prudent course of action.
The City & County will take the lead in this effort by not watering its parks and streetscapes until May 1.
The exception will be the athletic fields, which will be watered as needed to assure the fields are in peak condition
when organized sports are ready to use them, and spot watering of new sod
that was replaced in 2011.
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.
City and County of Broomfield
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 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.
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 can be washed. Use water conservatively.
Water Features
Allowed to be operated
Other Watering
If the next few months are hot and dry, new turf that was installed last fall may need some irrigation in March and
April 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 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.
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.
