News on water conservation rebates and programs impacting the Green Industry.
Drought Raises Rainwater Harvesting Popularity
San Antonio Express-News, July 19, 2011
Urban homeowners use trial and error in rainwater harvesting systems to reap rewards in the landscape. Austin, San Marcos and New Braunfels, Tex. offer rebates of up to $5,000.
University of Las Vegas Turf Reduction Plan Rejected
The Rebel Yell, July 11, 2011
The $36,000 in rebates would allow the school to replace turf with more water-efficient landscaping and reduce bills, however regents objected a requirement that would limit the university from making modifications to the water-wise landscape. The requirement aims to prevent problems the Las Vegas Water Authority has had with homeowners adding turf back to their landscapes after taking advantage of the rebates.
Monterey Peninsula Water Rebates on Hold
Central Coast News, July 12, 2011
The successful Monterey Peninsula, Calif. water conservation rebate program is expected to be renewed in 2012. The nearly $1 million budget that was allocated in 2009 has been exhausted. The program offered rebates for water cisterns, smart irrigation controllers and more.
Vallejo Hikes Water Bill, Offers Rebates
Times-Herald, July 13, 2011
As Vellajo, Calif. residents face a 6 percent water rate increase, the city promotes rebates on turf removal and smart irrigation timers and more. Contact city water conservation staff at (707) 648-5299 for information.
Texas Blind Salamanders Survival Depends on San Antonio Water Conservation
National Geographic News Watch, July 14, 2011
As severe drought impacts San Antonio, Tex., residents conserve so endangered species that rely on the Edwards Aquifer can survive. The region stores surplus water during periods of rain in a shallower aquifer to help supply water to residents during “drier” days.
Western Municipal Water District Approves Rate Hike in Riverside, Calif.
Press Enterprise, July 14, 2011
Despite angry reactions to the rate increases, the water district has approved a rate structure designed to “lower the bills of the most efficient users and drastically raise prices for those who fail to conserve.” The high penalty rates will help fund water efficiency programs and rebates.
Irrigation Efficiency Rebates for Farmers in Eastern Oregon
East Oregonian, July 16, 2011
A conservation program provides funds to farmers for replacing old, inefficient pumps and sprinkler hardware and installing variable frequency drives.
