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 Water Conservation

City Maintains High Water Storage Levels, Asks for Voluntary Conservation - Due to the benefits of senior water rights and reduced water demand, Westminster's water storage in Standley Lake remains full or close to full. While conditions may still change, continued conservation efforts by citizens, along with Westminster's prudent water planning, allow Westminster to request only voluntary water conservation measures be implemented.

Westminster holds some of the most senior water rights on Clear Creek. Because of this, any shortage on Clear Creek must reach a significant level before Westminster's supply is seriously affected. As we saw in 2002 those levels do occur, but only under extreme circumstances. Westminster's storage in Standley Lake lets us carry water over from average and wet years to address deficits in these extreme circumstances.

For information on Indoor and Outdoor water conservation fixtures and appliances, visit the Alliance for Water Efficiency's Resource Library at: http://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/Residential_Library_Content_Listing.aspx. 
Toilet problems and dripping water are two common water wasters.  Take Toilet Repair Lessons to fix toilet problems and gain a better understanding of what that water drip really means by calculating how much water is being dripped away. 

Conservation Rebate Program
The City of Westminster offers the following rebates to customers who purchase specific water-saving appliances. Rebates are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis while funds are available.  *** UPDATE:  Due to the success of the program, the City of Westminster's 2010 Toilet Rebate Program has achieved it's goal and reached the end of available funding.  Toilets purchased without reservation will not qualify for 2010 rebates.

Residents wishing to replace their existing toilets with high efficiency toilets may refer to the toilet efficiency ratings list below.

Toilet efficiency ratings (PDF, 228 kb)

Landscape Irrigation Tips - Landscape does not need the same amount of irrigation each month. As we look back at how much irrigation was needed in the past, we can project the future needs. Sprinkler system programs should be modified several times during an irrigation season to reflect watering needs. The easiest way is to set one watering schedule for spring, one for summer, and a final schedule for fall.

Here are the numbers - If your lawn needs 1" of water per week from mid June, July and through August, mid summer (the amount recommended by the Sod Growers Association for an attractive lawn planted in good soil) then spring and fall watering amounts can be cut in half to only ½" of water per week. Using this method you can have one program for your system from the beginning of your irrigation season through mid June. Create a second program for the mid June through August time period and finally, revert to your water saving spring program for September through mid October when most irrigation needs drop to near zero.

Remember, your landscape has specific needs. Watering times may need to be adjusted for your conditions. Start on the low end and adjust up, if needed. Use a straight-sided container like a tuna can to measure the amount of water your system is applying.

For more information visit our outdoor watering pages.

What is Reclaimed Water? - When water goes down the drains in your home or business, the City "recycles" and treats it for irrigation purposes. Use of this "recycled" water does not deplete the City's water supply. That's why parks, businesses, golf courses and other facilities that irrigate with reclaimed water are not bound by watering restrictions. Click here for more information on Westminster's reclaimed water system. Reclaimed water information

Tree and Plant Care - Visit http://www.watersaver.org/ External link to get information on proper tree and plant care throughout drought conditions. The information on this site is provided by Community Tree Alliance, which is comprised of tree professionals from city governments, parks districts, Colorado State University Cooperative Extensions, not-for-profit organizations, and Green Industries of Colorado.

Business and Industrial Tools - Visit Colorado Water Wise to conduct an audit of your business and browse the Water Smart Guide for Businesses to learn of business specifc water conservation ideas. 

More Water Conservation Information