During the summer of 2005, the City of Penticton’s Water Smart Ambassadors surveyed residents to determine their watering habits. They were thrilled to find that 99 percent of those surveyed agreed that water conservation is important, and that the majority of residents have adopted the City’s new watering restrictions.
By using a water model, the city can assess its water system and identify and rectify any potential deficiencies. Valuable information gathered through the water modeling exercise can determine how the distribution system will react to emergencies during high-demand periods. A water model also helps with fire protection planning.
On July 20, 2005, the Village of Lumby launched its Water-use Efficiency Program. In keeping with the newly adopted Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan, a Stage-1 water conservation threshold was declared that introduced water sprinkling regulations, a public education program, and a more stringent water level monitoring program for village wells. This was well received by residents, and resulted in excellent voluntary compliance.
As consumers begin to demand environmental responsibility from suppliers of goods and services, the companies that respond positively will have a competitive advantage over those that do not. The result is increased revenues. But can businesses incorporate sustainable operating practices without greatly increasing costs? The answer is yes. In fact, by increasing eco-efficiency, costs can be significantly decreased.
The City of Kelowna Water Utility takes conservation seriously, and 2005 will be remembered as the year the utility kicked its Water Smart program into high gear.
Water-centric means that we will plan with a view to water – whether we are planning for a single site or the entire Province. Water-centric planning considers the amount of water available, the amount of water needed, innovative efficiency strategies, the quality of water leaving the area, how rain and snow water are managed, and the impact on the natural environment.
