Water is one of the most crucial resources on earth and the amazing city of Tacoma, located in the west-central part of the state of Washington, understands this better than anyone else. While this region may enjoy an abundance of rainfall, there is always a need to prioritize water conservation to ensure there’s enough to go around for everyone and, moreover, for generations to come. Today, let’s talk about the proactive strategies deployed by Tacoma Public Utilities to ensure adequate water conservation in Tacoma.
The Importance of Water Conservation
Even with an enviable location by the Puget Sound and sitting on Commencement Bay, water availability isn’t infinite1. Urban growth and increased demand have increased dependence on freshwater sources like the Green River Watershed. Therefore, using water wisely is an integral part of preserving these critical resources and maintaining Tacoma’s quality of life.
Tacoma’s Commitment Towards Water Conservation
Tacoma Public Utilities has implemented several measures to increase awareness and promote water conservation. With a range of programs and initiatives like rebates, educational resources, and efficiency tips, Tacoma Public Utilities seeks to ensure the sustainable use and long-term availability of water2.
Programs and Initiatives
Tacoma Public Utilities offers multiple rebates and incentives to encourage conservation. One of the most popular programs is the Water-Smart Landscape Rebate, which encourages green-thumbed residents to create beautiful, water-efficient gardens. There is also the Toilet Replacement Program which gives rebates for replacing old, inefficient toilets with high-efficiency toilets that use less water per flush.
For educational resources, the utility has the Water Watchers program, an engaging curriculum that helps students understand the importance of water conservation. It encourages the youth to be good environmental stewards by learning to use water wisely.
Aside from the programs, Tacoma Water also integrates conservation into its work. They engage in regular leak detection and repair operations across the city’s water lines and encourage customers to report leaks at their residences.
Water Conservation Tips
Tacoma Public Utilities also offers several conservation tips on their website3. A few examples include:
- Avoiding overwatering plants and lawns and watering early in the morning or late at night to minimize evaporation.
- Regularly inspecting sprinkler systems to ensure they aren’t watering pavement and that there are no invisible leaks.
- Installing water-efficient fixtures and appliances and fixing any household leaks immediately.
- Only running your dishwasher and washing machine with full loads.
- Taking shorter showers and turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving.
The Future of Water Conservation in Tacoma
Looking to the future, Tacoma Water continues to work and invest in infrastructure that enables conservation. They have also undertaken research to understand and quantify water efficiency efforts and to stay informed of the technological advances in water conservation.
In conclusion, Tacoma Water and the residents of this beautiful city recognize the value of their water resources and are making concerted efforts to ensure the sustainable use of this precious commodity. This commitment to water conservation is just another reason to be proud to call Tacoma home.
Sources
- Tacoma Water, “2018 Water Comprehensive Plan” https://tacomah2o.files.wordpress.com/2020/04/final_tacoma-water-2018-gws-thru-10-2-19.pdf
- Tacoma Water Rebate Program, https://www.mytpu.org/water/homes/rebate-programs/
- Tacoma Public Utilities, Water Conservation Tips, https://www.mytpu.org/water/homes/conserve-water/