City recognizes April as Water Conservation Month
The South Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board has declared April to be Water Conservation Month. April is normally the last month of the local dry season and when water needs are most acute, highlighting the importance of conserving water, according to the city of Sanibel.
Over the next 20 years, demand for water in South Florida is projected to increase by 15 percent annually. Locally, the Island Water Association has reported water consumption data is beginning to far exceed historical trendline projections; the data suggests increased usage may be attributed to a large escalation in turf and landscape irrigation. These current and projected demands could be reduced by using water more efficiently through conservation measures.
One of the biggest commitments residents and property owners can make to conserve water is to properly manage irrigation. To help conserve water on Sanibel and protect freshwater resources, the city council adopted Water Conservation Ordinance No 20-001 (effective Sept. 18), which reflects the SFMWD’s mandatory year-round landscape irrigation conservation measures. Established yards normally only need to be irrigated up to twice per week, so the ordinance permits irrigation two days per week based upon property address — odd addresses on Mondays and Thursdays and even addresses on Tuesdays and Fridays. To help prevent water loss through evapotranspiration, which occurs at a higher rate during the hottest parts of the day, irrigation is not permitted between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. To access the full ordinance, visit https://files.constantcontact.com/97af97e6001/c25d5d30-4c1a-4032-9270-dc3934c1b5a9.pdf.
Residents and property owners should also consider installing low-flow sprinkler heads on new and existing systems. Low-flow sprinkler heads spray less water but operate for a longer period. This provides irrigation water the opportunity to properly absorb into the soil. Low-flow sprinkler heads use less water while delivering water to plant roots more effectively. This option allows homeowners to save money while being environmentally friendly.
Another simple way to reduce irrigation demand is to select native plants for landscape. Since native plants are adapted to the local climate and environment, they require little to no irrigation or fertilizer while also providing excellent habitat and forage for wildlife such as birds and butterflies. Consider replacing turf grass with native groundcovers to lessen the need for irrigation. For a list of native landscape plants suitable for Sanibel, visit http://www.mysanibel.com/content/download/344/2161/file/Native%20Approved%20Vegetation.pdf.
For more information, visit https://www.sfwmd.gov/news-events/news/sfwmd-governing-board-declares-april-water-conservation-month.