Free programs and rebates to get your irrigation system ready for summer
Did you know that more than one-third of all water consumed by households goes to irrigating our lawns, gardens, and outdoor spaces? In arid places, that number can be as high as 60 percent, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. And experts estimate that we lose as much as half of this water to leaks and evaporation. Wasted water also means wasted money — a lawn, for example, can slap an additional $50 to $200 onto your monthly water bill.
But with more efficient outdoor systems, you can cut down on outdoor water use, and save money.
In Ashland, we live in a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, meaning that the majority of our precipitation falls between October and April. High summer temperatures, scarce rainfall, and the porous granitic soils underlying much of the city contribute to soaring water use in the summer months — as much as five times what we use in the winter. That’s why it’s particularly important to dial in your irrigation system before the dry season begins. Here are three tips to get you started.
Look for the WaterSense Label
The EPA’s WaterSense label helps you make sure you are getting reliable technology. All WaterSense-labeled products are independently certified to ensure that they meet the WaterSense criteria for efficiency and performance.
WaterSense-labeled irrigation controllers can significantly reduce overwatering by applying water only when plants need it. “Smart” controllers act like a thermostat for your sprinkler system, telling it when to turn on and off. They use local weather and landscape conditions to match watering schedules to actual conditions on the site.
The Medford Water Commission estimates that replacing a standard clock timer with a WaterSense-labeled controller can save an average home nearly 8,800 gallons of water annually. And, according to the EPA, “If every home in the United States with an automatic sprinkler system installed and properly operated a WaterSense labeled controller, we could save $435 million in water costs and 120 billion gallons of water across the country annually from not overwatering lawns and landscapes. That’s equal to the annual household water needs of nearly 1.3 million average American homes.”
WaterSense labeled controllers can also be a water-smart solution for larger landscapes, including schools, hotels, and office buildings.
And good news: there’s a City Rebate for That! City of Ashland water account holders can score a City rebate for installing a WaterSense Smart Irrigation Controller — $200 for residential customers (including renters who pay the water bill) and $250 for Homeowner Associations (HOAs) and commercial facilities. Click here to get a rebate application.
Lawn Replacement
The City of Ashland also offers a rebate for replacing a live, maintained, and irrigated lawn with climate-appropriate, low-water-use landscapes and efficient irrigation systems. Print an application (pdf), or email the City at Conserve@ashland.or.us for more information.
Get a Free Sprinkler System Evaluation
During the summer, the City of Ashland will provide a free comprehensive assessment of the design, operation, and management of your sprinkler system. Assistance with sprinkler controllers and watering schedules will also be provided. You’ll receive a brief report outlining general observations and suggestions for future use — a great opportunity to learn how to save water and money while still maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape. To schedule, contact a Water Conservation Specialist by email or call 541-552-2062.