Denton's Sustainability Framework Advisory Committee is making waves with its ambitious water conservation initiatives, aiming to reshape how residents use water. During a recent meeting, the committee highlighted a new twice-a-week mandatory irrigation schedule, a significant shift designed to curb excessive water use, which accounts for a staggering 70% of discretionary water consumption in the city.

The initiative, which officially launched on May 1, 2024, is part of a broader water conservation and drought contingency plan that is updated every five years. The committee emphasized that instead of enforcing penalties, they are prioritizing education over the next three years to help residents adapt to the new schedule. "We just want to educate, educate, educate," said a committee member, underscoring the community's positive response to the changes.

To support this transition, the city has introduced several conservation incentives, including a rebate program for residents who purchase EPA WaterSense-approved irrigation controllers. So far, 26 residents have taken advantage of this rebate, which reimburses up to $300 for the purchase of these advanced controllers that help manage watering schedules more effectively.

Additionally, the committee is offering an irrigation evaluation program, where licensed irrigators assess residents' systems for efficiency and potential leaks. This program has already seen interest from 28 residents, with many more participating in related initiatives.

Looking ahead, the committee plans to extend its efforts beyond residential areas to include commercial and institutional customers, aiming to engage businesses and educational institutions in water conservation practices.

As Denton continues to prioritize sustainability, these initiatives not only promise to enhance water conservation but also aim to foster a culture of responsible water use among its residents. The anticipated outcomes include improved water management and the ability to serve an additional 16,000 residents by normalizing peak water usage through strategic irrigation practices.