12-853 Adopting Water Conservation PlanCITY OF MERIDIAN RESOLUTION NO. I a ' ~s..3
BY THE CITY COUNCIL:. BIRD, HOAGLUN, ROUNTREE, ZAREMBA
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN,
IDAHO ADOPTING THE MERIDIAN WATER CONSERVATION PLAN.
WHEREAS, on May 16, 2012 the Meridian Public Work Department presented the Meridian
Water Conservation Plan to the Meridian City Council;
WHEREAS, the purpose of the Water Conservation Plan of the City of Meridian is to
preserve, protect and extend the useful life of the City's current water supplies by reducing per-
capita water consumption;
WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council of the City of Meridian have approved the adoption
of the Meridian Water Conservation Plan.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO:
Section 1. The City Council of the City of Meridian hereby adopts the Meridian Water
Conservation Plan as set forth in Exhibit A, as attached.
ADOPTED b the Cit Council of the Cit of Meridian Idaho this ~~ da of
Y Y Y ~ ~ Y
2012.
APP OVED b the Ma or of the Cit of Meridian Idaho this ~~ d f
Y Y Y ~ ay o
2012.
APPROVED:
ATTEST:
By•
~~
Mayor Ta y de Weerd
RESOLUTION ADOPTING MERIDIAN WATER CONSERVATION PLAN - PAGE l OF 1
CITY OF
MERIDIAN IDAHO
~~E IDIAN:---
2011 WATER
CONSERVATION
PLAN
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Table of Contents
SECTION 1 -INTRODUCTION AND SUMMARY ...............................................................................................3
PURPOSE ANll SCOPE OF'I'HE PLAN ................. ...........................................................................................................4
PLAN ELEMEN'I'S ............................................. ...........................................................................................................7
RESOLUTION ANll ADOP"I'ING T'HE PLAN ......... ...........................................................................................................7
SECTION 2 -AREA CHARACTERISTICS ...........................................................................................................8
PHYSIC AL SE"I"I'[NG ......................................... ...........................................................................................................g
W A"I'ER S YS"I'EMS ............................................ ........................................................................................................... g
DEMOGRAPHICS FORECAS"I' ---------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ~ n
SECTION 3 -ANALYSIS OF HISTORICAL AND PROJECTED WATER DEMAND ..................................11
HISTORICAL WA'I'LR USE - PO"TABLE WATER
HISTORIC WATER USE- SURFACE WATER ...
SUMMARY OF PROJECTED DEMAND - PO"TABLE WA'I'ER ......................................................
............................1 1
............................12
............................13
SECTION 4 -WATER SUPPLY ............................................................................................................................. 15
SOURCES OF WATER - CURRENT' CAPACI'T'Y ANll SOURCE OF SUPPLY ..................................................................... 1 S
SUS"I'A[NABLE YIELD ............................................................................................................................................... 1S
SUPPLY ANDDEMANllBALANCE ............................................................................................................................. IS
SECTION 5 -RECLAIMED WATER PLAN ........................................................................................................ 17
CI"I'Y'S CURREN"I' AND PLANNED RECLAIMED WA"I'ER PROGRAM ............................................................................ I7
SECTION 6 -CURRENT WATER CONSERVATION PLAN ........................................................................... 18
MEASURES IMPLEMEN"I'EU ....................................................................................................................................... 1 S
MANAGEMENT' OF NON-REVENUE WA'I'ER .............................................................................................................. 18
SECTION 7 -POTENTIAL CONSERVATION ACTIONS ................................................................................ 19
SECTION 8 -RECOMMENDED PLAN ............................................................................................................... 2U
SECTION 9 -WATER SHORTAGE PLAN .......................................................................................................... 24
WA"I'ER SHOR"PAGE PLAN ELEMENT'5 ......................................................................................... ..............................24
WATER SUPPLY CGNDI"PION I: PGSS[BLE WA"I'ER SHGR"PAGE PREDIC"I'ED ................................ ..............................26
WATER SUPPLY CONDCI'ION 2: PROBABLE WATER SHORTAGE PREDICT'Ell .............................. ..............................27
WATER SUPPLY CONDCI'ION 3: WATER SHORTAGE EMERGENCY ............................................. ..............................25
APPENDIX A -WATER CONSERVATION WORKING GROUP MEMBERS ..............................................29
APPENDIX B -CONSERVATION ACTIONS CONSIDERED ..........................................................................3U
APPENDIX C -CITY CUSTOMER PROFILE ....................................................................................................35
APPENDIX D -DEFINITIONS ..............................................................................................................................36
APPENDIX E -LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES
ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
List of Figures and Tables
Figure 2-1 Historic Population Trend ........................................................................................... 10
Table 2-1 Service Area Population Projections ............................................................................ 10
Figure 3-1 Historical Water Production ........................................................................................ 11
Table 3-1 Historical Per Capita Demand -Potable Water ............................................................ 12
Table 3-2 Projected Demand Without Conservation .................................................................... 13
Figure 3-2 Demand Projections to 2060 ....................................................................................... 13
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 1-Introduction and Summary
Meridian Idaho is a community situated in a high desert location that may have been summarily
dismissed as uninhabitable by people traveling along the Oregon Trail to greener lands along the
west coast. Meridian only receives about 12 inches of precipitation per year. The native
landscape is sparse, mostly treeless and the summers are hot and dry.
The federal construction of water storage dams and irrigation canals allowed surface water from
the Boise River watershed to be delivered throughout the area, including virtually all land in the
past, present and future city limits of Meridian. This surface water supply has enabled the
development of agriculture and industry.
Although Meridian land is served by surface water providers for irrigation, the City relies
exclusively on groundwater for its municipal water source. This groundwater is present both
from the effects of leaking canals, long term flood irrigation and from natural recharge. The City
operates and maintains 18 wells that pump approximately 3 billion gallons of groundwater
annually. The City has monitored pressures in the aquifer system over the last several years and
has not found any statistically significant decline that would indicate water is being used faster
than recharge is occurring.
In summary, the City of Meridian has not experienced water supply shortages and future water
supplies appear to be assured for many years. So, Why Conserve?
Even if the details of how are complex, the answer to why is simple: Although it is plentiful
now, annual water supply for Meridian residents by surface water or groundwater is a finite
resource. It is one factor that has the potential to limit growth and industry in the area and in the
City itself. Not only can a shortage of clean water limit growth, but there are other negative
consequences including the economic burden of increased cost of water on residents and
businesses.
In addition to affecting the overall supply of water, conservation can:
• Decrease reliance on development of new sources of water supply
• Delay or reduce capital investments for water and wastewater
~ Reduce operation and maintenance costs for water and wastewater
• Improve supply reliability
~ Encourage the most beneficial use of available water for residents of Meridian and the
surrounding area
Purpose and Scope of the Plan
The overriding purpose of adopting and implementing a water conservation plan is to ensure an
ample supply of clean, safe, affordable water for current and future City residents. Additionally,
studying water conservation can help define and adjust limits for our current water supply.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Purpose
The purpose of the conservation plan is to preserve, protect and extend the useful life of the
City's current water supplies by reducing per-capita water consumption.
Scope
As part of the 2011 Water Master Plan, the City held a workshop to discuss long-term water
supply issues. The workshop was attended by City staff, elected officials, and subject matter
experts. As a result of that effort and further direction, the following scope was developed for
the Water Conservation Plan:
Plan Term
The objectives of this plan have a time frame from 1-10 years. Because this is the City's first
formal Water Conservation Plan, there are many unknown factors that will influence future
versions. Primarily, it is unknown to what extent different conservation actions will
influence residents. The overall plan should be re-evaluated in 3-5 years, however, specific
conservation actions should take place or be evaluated annually or even on shorter schedules
as indicated in the Conservation Actions matrix.
Groundwater Vs Surface Water
The City of Meridian currently uses groundwater as its only source of potable water for
residents. The City currently has no control over the delivery or allocation of surface water
to residents. In fact, since residents pay a fixed fee for surface water regardless of the
quantity used, there is no fiscal incentive for them to conserve.
This paradigm can result in short-sighted water management. In years with a shortage of
surface water supply, additional needs may be met through groundwater pumping, thereby
increasing demand on this resource, which is the sole supply for the City's potable water. In
years with a surplus of surface water, there is no corresponding benefit to the groundwater
supply (other than a potential increase in aquifer recharge). Conservation of surface water
and changes in delivery practices during surplus years could lead to a reserve supply in
storage to help in shortage years.
Regardless of current delivery practices, the City staff and elected officials realize that the
yearly supply of surface water is a variable and finite resource that has a great impact on the
economy and quality of life for Meridian residents.
Even if surface water conservation has no immediate benefit or need for residents, population
growth, climate change, and other factors will likely change that in the future.
Understanding that the culture of water conservation is developed over time, this plan
recognizes that starting the effort before there is a dire need will help ensure future success.
For these reasons, this plan encourages the conservation of both groundwater and surface
water.
Plan Data
Much of the data used in this plan was assembled and presented as part of the 2011 Water
Master Plan update for the City of Meridian. This plan was developed by Murray, Smith and
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Associates and staff from Meridian Public Works Engineering and Water Operations. The
Water Master Plan should be consulted for more detailed information or explanation of how
data was gathered, assembled and analyzed.
Plan Development and Public Participation
The goals, objectives, guidance and determination of appropriate conservation measures for
the City have been developed cooperatively by a Water Conservation Plan Working Group
composed of citizens, business representatives and City staff. Working Group members were
sought out through website advertisement, outreach activities and individual contacts. Staff
made specific efforts to ensure that different groups of customers were represented. The City
of Meridian is grateful for the time and effort these members provided. Conservation Plan
Working Group Members are found in Appendix A.
Specific objectives of this 2010 Water Conservation Plan Working Group:
• Identify goals of the Meridian Water Conservation Plan by 3/30/11.
• Identify objectives of the Meridian Water Conservation Plan by 4/30/11.
• Identify a Water Conservation Coordinator by 3/30/11.
• Examine potential conservation measures and select appropriate measures to recommend
for implementation by 6/30/1 1. These include measures for a water shortage plan.
• Recommend an annual budget for water conservation by 6/30/11.
• Recommend a complete Water Conservation Plan for Council approval by 9/30/11.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Conservation Plan Goals
Meridian Water Conservation Plan Long Term Goals were developed by the working group
described above with input over several weeks and workshops. They are:
• Ensure an adequate, sustainable and reliable supply of water at a reasonable cost
for current and future needs of the community.
• Promote environmentally and economically sound use of available water resources.
• Protect and preserve water resources through leadership, research, cooperation
with other stakeholders, and education.
• Prepare for drought and water emergencies.
Conservation Plan Objectives
The Working Group developed some specific objectives that could be used to guide what
conservation actions would be recommended.
• Establish an ongoing water conservation education program for the Meridian
community by 2013.
• Evaluate and report on the effectiveness of the Water Conservation Plan to the
community annually; share experiences, discuss lessons learned, and generate
public involvement and get feedback.
• Reduce Meridian customer potable water per capita use by 3% by 2015, in addition
to the reduction achieved by the addition of more customers who use surface water
for irrigation.
• Provide leadership by convening stakeholders within the Lower Soise watershed
and developing a water conservation partnership by 2015.
• Gather hydrogeologic data and develop a realistic working model of aquifer system
around Meridian by 2013. Develop fresh water supply projections (sustainable
aquifer yield) by 2015.
• Reclaim and reuse SO% of Meridian's wastewater by 2030.
• Establish cooperative relationships with surface water providers by 2013.
Plan Elements
This plan includes four basic elements:
• Study area characteristics
• Analysis of historical and projected water demand
• Water supply
• Past, current and future conservation measures
Resolution and Adopting the Plan
It is intended that this plan will be reviewed, approved and adopted by the City Council.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 2 -Area Characteristics
Physical Setting
The City of Meridian is located in Southwestern Idaho approximately 32 miles east of the
Oregon border and approximately 110 miles north of the Nevada border. The City is named for
Idaho's principle meridian used for the initial survey of the state.
Meridian was established in l 893 and incorporated as a village in 1903 with a population of
approximately 200.
The elevation of Meridian is about 2600 feet above sea level. The average daily temperature
varies from 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer to 29 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter.
Average annual precipitation is 11.5 inches. Average summer relative humidity at noon is 41
percent. Nights are cool and the growing season is approximately 175 days long. The
development of flood irrigation and Meridian's climate made it well suited to a variety of
agricultural activities. Dairy farms, dairy product production, fruit growing and fruit packing
were the primary industries in Meridian through the first half of the 20r" century.
Agricultural activity continues today, but is being replaced by urban development and
corresponding economic diversification. Land converted from agriculture to other uses is still
served by irrigation systems that provide abundant water at low cost.
Since 1994, Meridian has been the fastest growing city in Idaho with the population tripling
between 1990 and 2000, and more than doubling between 2000 and 2007. It has become a center
of retail and commercial development in southwest Idaho.
Water Systems
Municipal System
Meridian's municipal water system is a public system under the direction of the City
government. The system has over 400 miles of pipe and approximately 3,500 active fire
hydrants. It includes 19 wells that have a combined capacity of about 18,000 gpm, 21 pressure
control valves, 2 booster stations and 2.5 million gallons of storage.
Some details regarding current and predicted demand follow in this narrative. Additional
information can be found in appendix C.
Surface Water Systems
Most residents in the City of Meridian are also served by pressurized and non-pressurized
irrigation systems that are supplied by surface water that was originally diverted for agricultural
use. Delivery of surface water is managed by irrigation districts. Flood irrigation is employed
in much of the agricultural areas surrounding the City; however, as urban development occurs on
farmland, surface water delivered to that land is provided to City residents through pressurized
irrigation systems. These systems are owned and operated either by the irrigation districts or
homeowners associations.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
As noted, not all residential properties in the City have surface water irrigation systems.
Currently, about 20% of the population uses municipal water for irrigation; however, new
developments in the City are required by city code to provide pressurized irrigation systems from
surface water if the developing land was previously served by surface water. This city code is in
alignment with state law that strongly encourages the use of surface water as the primary source
for irrigation (including lawns). Because of this, the population percentage using municipal
water for irrigation will continue to shrink with time.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Demographics Forecast
The population of the City and the surrounding area saw relatively slow growth until 1990. From
1990 through 2007, the population estimates reflect extremely rapid growth. The yearly growth
rate from 2000-2007 ranged from 6.5% to 21.8% with an overall yearly average of 12.3%. With
the nation-wide economic decline starting in 2008, growth has dramatically decreased. A
summary of historical City population according to US Census and COMPASS records is shown
in Figure 2-1 and Table 2-1 below.
Figure 2-1 Historic Population Trend
so,ooo Meridian, Idaho Historic Population
70,000
so,ooo
50
0
,
00
40,000
PvNiiiai iGiii
30,000
20
0
,
00
10,000
~
0
1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010
Year
As part of the Water Master Plan Update COMPASS population forecasts by Traffic Analysis
Zones (TAZ) were applied to growth areas estimated by City planning staff to estimate future
populations for the City impact area.
Table 2-1 Service Area Po ulation Pro'ections
Year Service Area Po ulation Estimate
2010 66,000
2015 85,000
2020 104,000
2030 140,000
2060 252,000
Build-Out 345,000
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 3 -Analysis of Historical and Projected Water Demand
Historical Water Use -Potable Water
In general, total production of potable water, as shown in Figure 3-1 has steadily increased over
the last decade although it has fallen off somewhat since 2007.
Figure 3-1 Historical Water Production
Historical Water Production
a
3.5
c
0 3
~a
~ 2.5
Q 2
c
0
'v 1.5
3
O 1
a`
L
~ 0.5
iv
0
rn °0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
~ N N N N N N N N N N
Year
7/ 13/201 1 Page 11 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
An analysis of total production divided by the estimated population at each year showed a clear
trend of decreasing per capita consumption. This decrease could be explained by several factors.
~ City requirement for new development to use surface water for irrigation where available
thereby reducing the percentage of customers using potable water for irrigation.
• Conservation due to rate increases.
~ Conservation due to recent economic hardships, even without rate increases.
• Conservation due to building codes and practices that require or encourage more efficient
fixtures and appliances.
~ Greater public awareness regarding the importance of water conservation.
Table 3-1 Historical Per Cauita Demand -Potable Water
Year Service
Area
Po ulationa ADD
(gpcpd)e MDD
(gpcpd) MMD
(gpcpd)
2005 50,449 147 285 307
2006 59,851 137 260 252
2007 64,617 147 295 249
2008 64,969` 132 233 272
2009 65,321 128 243 227
Averages 138 263 261
a Population figures are based on COMPASS city populations and service area ratios
b Gallons per capita per day
`Population is linearly interpolated using COMPASS 2010 benchmark population
Because most of the area that will develop and provide new customers for the City's potable
water is currently served by surface water for agriculture, it is expected that the trend of
decreasing per capita demand for potable water will continue as the city grows. Research
completed for the City's Water Master Plan indicated that residents served by surface water for
irrigation used about 112 gpcpd of potable water while residents that use potable water for
irrigation used about 224 gpcpd of potable water (both figures based on ADD). Since all new
customers will be served by surface water for irrigation, the overall per capita demand should
continue to drop without any conservation measures. A conservative per capita ADD of 130
gpcpd was used as a base for future demand projections that do not include any additional
conservation measures.
Historic Water Use -Surface Water
It is important to note that, although the demand for potable water for lawn irrigation is reduced
by the use of surface water, the overall use of water is not reduced. Surface water is supplied to
property owners at historic delivery rates (generally about 4 acre feet per acre during the
irrigation season) based on the historic agricultural use of the land. Property owners are assessed
a fixed fee and are not charged based on the amount of water used. Consequently, property
owners have no incentive to conserve surface water.
Even though surface water delivery is accounted for by providers through weir measurements,
the use of that water by customers is not measured, so the per capita demand is unknown.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Summary of Projected Demand -Potable Water
As discussed earlier, a per capita average day demand of 130 gpcpd was applied to the
population forecasts discussed in Section 2. The following Table 3-2 and Figure 3-2 summarize
the resulting demand forecast.
Table 3-2 Proiected Demand without Conservation
Year Service ADD MDD MMD PHD
Area (mgd) (mgd) (mgd) (mgd)
Population
Estimate
2015 55,000 11.05 22.10 19.89 33.15
2020 104,000 13.52 27.04 2434 40.56
2030 140,000 15.20 36.40 32.76 54.60
2060 252,000 32.76 65.52 55.97 95.52
Figure 3-2 Demand Projections to 2060
Demand Projections at 13n gpcpd
120
100
80
C
C ~ PHO
M66
60 ~f~
~ ~ AD 6
f0
~ 40
20
0
2010 2015 2D2D 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 2055 2060 2ii65
Year
The 2011 Water Master Plan Update discusses the impact of water conservation on future
demand. The data gathered showed that customers using surface water for irrigation had an
average per capita potable water consumption of 112 gpcpd. This number can be used as a
target for overall per capita consumption with conservation. This is a 13.8 percent difference
in per capita consumption (from the proposed planning metric of 130 gpcpd).
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
The impact of such reduction over time to a water provider would be significant. In 2060,
MDD could be reduced by 9 mgd. ADD could be reduced by 4.5 mgd which equates to over
1.6 billion gallons per year. For the utility, this means less infrastructure expense, less
operational expense and less impact on the water source.
Conservation of Surface Water
The extensive use of surface water by Meridian residents for irrigation is a benefit because it
reduces overall use and peaking factors for potable water, therefore reducing overall cost.
However, this conservation plan recognizes that using surface water instead of potable water
for purposes such as irrigation does not imply overall water conservation. As previously
mentioned, the pricing of surface water (one flat fee for a year regardless of how much is
used) does not provide an economic incentive to conserve.
Surface water is not supplied by the City and the City has no control over how it is priced
and delivered. Additionally, the actual use of surface water delivered to Meridian residents
is not measured, so conservation efforts related to this resource can not be quantified at this
time.
This plan recognizes that even though yearly surface water supply is normally more than
sufficient for irrigation purposes and inexpensive now, it is likely that conservation of this
resource will eventually be critical to the growth and prosperity of the City and the region.
Therefore, the plan includes consideration of actions to conserve water whether it is surface
water provided by irrigation districts and canal companies or potable water provided by the
City.
The Water Conservation Plan Working Group discussed some ideas on how the delivery and
use of surface water might be changed to encourage conservation. One recommendation
includes establishing working groups with irrigation districts, canal companies and
legislators. Current practices for allocating and delivering surface water have been employed
for over 100 years and alternatives for the future have not yet been developed.
This plan focuses on education and building a culture of water conservation that is
appropriate for the arid climate in which we live that invites anyone to participate. It
includes forming partnerships with the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) and
other water suppliers, but does not include any specific actions regarding surface water
suppliers. It is envisioned that future revisions of the plan can build on this initial effort and
progress can be made towards conservation of the overall water resource.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 4 -Water Supply
Sources of Water -Current Capacity and Source of Supply
Meridian currently relies on groundwater as the single source for all its potable water supply.
Although it is the sole source of potable supply, it is a complex resource. Municipal wells tap
the groundwater supply from 300 to 800 feet below ground level. Water from these various
depths and locations varies in chemical composition and overall quality.
Meridian's Municipal water supply system has the capacity to pump approximately 33,000 gpm
for several hours and up to 30,000 gpm for an indefinite time period. The 2010 Water Master
Plan Update includes detailed information about Meridian's water supply and distribution
infrastructure.
Sustainable Yield
Changes in static water levels have been observed at wells across Meridian, but they have not
been significant and have not necessarily been attributed to municipal pumping. There is very
little information on the rate of recharge of the aquifer system and the sustainable pumping
volume.
Meridian monitors water levels at several observation wells at various locations throughout the
city. Data has been collected for a number of years with some wells dating back to the early
1990x. The City is working to use this data along with drilling logs, to develop a groundwater
model and aquifer mapping in order to better understand the characteristics of the aquifer system,
including the recharge mechanisms and sustainable yield. The information being gathered and
analyzed for Meridian will likely be the best available data that exists and will be invaluable for
the City's conservation efforts.
Supply and Demand Balance
The 2010 Water Master Plan projected demands through ultimate build-out for the City. Total
demand projections using a conservative per capital demand of 130 gallons per day were used in
Table 3-3. Average demand per day is projected to be about 33 million gallons in 2060. Over a
year, that equates to 12 billion gallons of potable water supply needed for Meridian customers
alone. Other potable water suppliers surrounding Meridian will increase demands on the shared
aquifer system to serve their current and future customers as well.
Experience and available data have shown that the aquifer system that Meridian relies upon for
potable water supply is extremely productive; however, as discussed, the ultimate sustainable
yield is unknown. Additionally, we may not know when we have exceeded this sustainable yield
until after it happens. Again, more data collection and analysis is needed to better understand
this issue.
Once again, surface water supply and conservation may become an important issue. The
Treasure Valley Comprehensive Aquifer Management Plan (CAMP) effort produced a Treasure
Valley Future Water Demand study by WRIME Consultants. The study indicated that the net
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
water demand (regardless of source) per acre for agricultural land was greater than for urban
land. Therefore, the conversion of agricultural use to urban use as population in Meridian and
the Treasure Valley grows produces a net decrease in overall water demand.
Although this concept has not been met with agreement from all parties involved in the CAMP,
it underlines a recurring theme of this plan; that water conservation should include surface water
and groundwater. To encourage the conservation of both resources, which are naturally
connected, legislators and regulatory agencies must work towards the most beneficial use of
water. If this can be accomplished, it would appear that the overall water resource will support
our demands for at least 50 years.
7/ 13/2011 Pale 16 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 5 -Reclaimed Water Plan
The conversion of wastewater to reclaimed water, and its use, will be a key component in water
conservation in the future. Reclaimed water has a variety of applications which can either
replace or reduce the need for other sources of water. It can also replenish groundwater supplies.
The following description is from the draft Reclaimed Water Master Plan developed for the City
by HDR Engineering:
City's Current and Planned Reclaimed Water Program
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The City of Meridian (City) is developing a program to produce and distribute
reclaimed water for a variety of uses. Reclaimed water is a highly treated water
resource generated at the City's municipal wastewater treatment plant that meets
standards for reuse established by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
(DEQ).
This Reclaimed Water Master Plan (Master Plan) presents along-range vision for
the City's reclaimed water program and defines market expectations for reclaimed
water sales. Cost opinions for constructing future components of the reclaimed
water production and distribution system are also presented, which establishes the
foundation from which a framework for financing capital investments has been
analyzed. Finally, the Plan identifies policy and implementation issues that will
affect development and financing of the reclaimed water program.
The City's reclaimed water program will continue to evolve as the City gains
experience with the production and distribution of the resource. Therefore, the
policies, assumptions, and findings of this Master Plan are expected to be updated
regularly, particularly in the near-term.
Program History
The City has been producing Class A reclaimed water since 2009, and
beneficially reusing the water for turf irrigation at Heroes Park. This
demonstration project has offered a highly visible means by which to educate the
public about the value of this resource. The Idaho Department of Environmental
Quality issued the City a Final Wastewater Reuse Permit (No. LA-000215-02) on
April 19, 2010. This permit is effective for five years and allows for the use of
reclaimed water in irrigation, dust suppression, toilet flushing, lined surface water
features, sanitary sewer flushing, and fire suppression throughout the City. This
"City-wide" permit supports the expansion of the program that is presented in the
Master Plan.
The Vision for of the Meridian Public Works Department for the year 2030 was developed in
2009. Recycling and reusing wastewater is a primary component of that Vision which foresees
recycling and/or reuse of SO% of the waste stream by that time.
7/ 13/201 1 Page 17 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 6 -Current Water Conservation Plan
Measures Implemented
Conservation efforts in Meridian have historically been the result of supply and distribution
system limitations, rather than a concern for the long term availability of supply. In 1993, the
City distributed a flyer to customers and asked them to conserve in a number of different ways so
water would be available to everyone for the summer, but after new wells were constructed, the
system crises was over and formal conservation plans were not adopted.
Even though a conservation plan has not been formally adopted, Meridian currently practices
several important conservation practices that include:
• Metering water to
customers and including a
component of the bill for
usage
• Tracking non-revenue
water used for water main
flushing and hydrant flows
• Managing tight pressure
zones to avoid high
service pressures
• Enforcing building codes
for low flow toilets and
show heads
• Encouraging the use of
reclaimed water
• Using automatic irrigation
controls for Parks
Facilities
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1993 Flyer
Management of Non-Revenue Water
The 2010 Water Master Plan Update evaluated production and sales records for 2008 and 2009,
and found that non-revenue water is very low, averaging just 3% of water produced. This can be
attributed to several factors:
• Much of the City's infrastructure is very new due to the recent explosive growth
• The City has an active meter replacement program
• The City tracks water used for flushing sediment from water mains
• The City tracks water used for fire training
7/ 13/201 1 Page 18 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 7 -Potential Conservation Actions
This plan is Meridian's first formal water conservation plan. As discussed previously, the City's
water supply and distribution infrastructure is more than capable of providing peak demands and
emergency flows to customers. In addition, the City is extremely fortunate to be tapping an
aquifer system that has shown little to no decline after several years of sustained pumping.
The City understands, however, that annual water supply is a limited resource and is taking
measures to better understand the resource.
The Conservation Plan Working Group submitted their ideas for water conservation measures
which were consolidated and added to measures found in the AWWA Manual: Water
Conservation for Small and Medium-Sized Utilities. The Working Group preferred the term
Conservation Actions, rather than measures. These potential actions were organized and
discussed by the Working Group in light of the Goals and Objectives they had previously
developed. The outcome was a list of recommended actions for the plan.
The Conservation Actions were categorized as follows:
• Utility /City Practices
• Ordinances and Rules
~ Outreach
• Incentives
• Reclaimed Water
In developing the Goals, Objectives, and Conservation Actions of this plan, the different
perspectives of the Working Group members were apparent. However, it was a consistent
opinion among members that the best conservation actions were those that employed education,
outreach and setting an example through City leadership rather than developing ordinances or
rules to try to force customers to conserve.
Appendix B contains the matrix of Conservation Actions considered including recommendations
/ notes from the Working Group. Some actions discussed may require additional research to
determine potential costs and benefits. In several cases, the group recommended that actions be
considered based on future research and analysis.
7/ 13/201 1 Page 19 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 8 -Recommended Plan
The initial recommendation is to assign the duties of a Conservation Coordinator to an existing
position within the Environmental Division. It is contemplated that a part time position may be
added in the future for this function. The Conservation Coordinator will be responsible to
implement or facilitate the implementation of the action items below, to measure their
effectiveness, and to provide regular reports on conservation efforts to the City Council.
The conservation plan includes objectives that reach to 2015. However, a yearly report to City
Council is also an objective and it is anticipated that, as the action items are completed and
information is gathered and analyzed, the conservation plan and action items will be updated
annually.
The following table includes the actions that have been recommended by the Working Group.
As a formal conservation effort is new to the City, many of the recommendations are simply to
research or evaluate different actions to analyze their feasibility and efficacy.
Action Estimated
Cost Estimated
Benefit Lead Staff Support Staff
City / Utilit ~ Practices
Evaluate costs and benefits of Low Low Engineering
reducing the water from Division
flushing by improving supply
water ualit through filters
Purchase leak detection Med Med Water
equipment to reduce wasted Division
water from s stem leaks
Develop source meter Low High Water Engineering
calibration ro ram Division Division
Create automatic alerts when Low High Utility Water,
customer use increases Billing Conservation
abnormal) Coordinator
Use utility bills to communicate Low High Conservation Utility Billing,
usage trends or comparisons to Coordinator Water
normal usa e.
Install Automatic Meter High High Engineering Water
Readin infrastructure Division
Perform audits on top users in Low Med Utility Water,
customer categories and use Billing Conservation
info for outreach Coordinator
Develop audit pilot program for Low High Conservation Environmental
landscape irrigation Coordinator Division,
Planning,
Water
Division
7/ 13/201 1 Page 20 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Action Estimated
Cost Estimated
Benefit Lead Staff Support Staff
Support Parks Department Low Low Conservation
conservation efforts Coordinator
Cooperate with other Low Low Conservation
government or water supplier Coordinator
conservation efforts
Perform fixture audit and Low Low Conservation
corrective actions for City Coordinator
buildin s
Coordinate with Building Low Low Conservation Building
Services to ensure high Coordinator Services
efficiency fixtures are included
in new construction
Seek conservation program Low Low Conservation Planning
funding from state, county, or Coordinator Grant
federal resources Administrator
Request a budget of $25,000 for High High Conservation Finance
water conservation. Funding Coordinator
would support a portion of a
position and conservation
actions recommended.
Benchmark Meridian's Low NA Conservation
conservation efforts with other Coordinator
similar cities and include in
annual re ort to Council
Explore formation of regional Low NA Conservation
water conservation group (or Coordinator
use existing re Tonal rou )
Meet with IDWR regularly to Low Med Conservation
discuss ground and surface Coordinator
water conservation issues
Recognize people or businesses Low Med Conservation
that practice conservation- Coordinator
award ro ram or news osts
Ordinances and Rules
Benchmark other cities Low NA Conservation Building
regarding individual unit Coordinator Services
meterin to multi-unit buildin s
Set aside a portion of rates for Public Engineering
conservation efforts Works Division,
Business Finance
O erations
Explore feasibility of tiered rate Low NA Conservation Engineering
structure Coordinator Division,
Finance
7/ 13/201 1 Page 21 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Action Estimated
Cost Estimated
Benefit Lead Staff Support Staff
Develop planning ordinances Med High Planning Conservation
that encourage and incentivize Coordinator
conservation
Create design standards for Med High Planning Conservation
landsca in Coordinator
Examine benefits of adopting Low NA Conservation Building
2009 lumbina code Coordinator Services
Outreach
Continue efforts with schools Low High Conservation
Coordinator
Distribute educational materials Low High Conservation Water
at various locations /events Coordinator Division,
Engineering
Division,
Plannin
Collaborate with professional Low Med Conservation
or anizations and HOAs Coordinator
Develop web page dedicated to Low High Conservation Information
water conservation, including Coordinator Technology
tips, electronic brochures,
innovative technologies, and
links to other sites, kid's pages,
and ames
Include education about peak Low Med Conservation Engineering
hour usage to reduce peaking Coordinator Division,
factors Water
Division
Provide information on self- Low High Water
audits to customers. Division
Conduct outreach to Low Med Conservation Building
commercial and industrial Coordinator Services
customers regarding fixtures,
coolin towers, a liances, etc.
Reclaimed Water
Explore feasibility of reclaimed Low NA Engineering
water fire hydrants and water Division
truck fillin stations.
Encourage conversion of Low Low Engineering
potable water irrigators to Division
reclaimed water
Encourage large potable water Low Low Engineering
users to convert appropriate Division
uses to reclaimed water
7/ 13/201 1 Page 22 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Cost Estimates (Cost to City):
Low = $0-5,000
Med = $5,000-$20,000
High =Over $20,000
Benefits: Because the potential benefits from an action item can be actual measurable water
conserved, or non-measurable benefits such as customer awareness and education, the High,
Medium, and Low levels are a best guess based on group discussion.
7/ 13/201 1 Page 23 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Section 9 -Water Shortage Plan
Water shortages are situations when the City is unable to meet the water demands of its
customers at the minimum required distribution pressure. Such conditions can be short or long
term depending on the causes and can be due to problems with pumping and distribution
infrastructure, the water supply, or unusually high demands.
Water Infrastructure Problems:
• Water main breaks
• Well failures
• Booster failures
• Power failures
Water Supply Problems:
• Contaminants in supply
• Extreme drought
• Conjunctive management /curtailment
• Water table decline
Unusually High Demands:
• Multiple simultaneous fires
• Extremely hot weather
The City of Meridian has a very robust supply and distribution system. However, if several of
the problems identified above occurred in combination, there may be a need for cooperative
community conservation to ensure that water is available for critical uses such as fire fighting
and medical needs.
Meridian's water distribution system includes five different pressure zones to ensure water is
delivered to customers in a narrow range of pressures- generally between 60 and 80 psi. With
one exception (the lowest zone), each pressure zone has wells to supply demand in that zone.
Pressure zones are separated by Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) that maintain pressure
differential, but still allow flow between zones. The highest pressure zone can transfer water
down to any zone below it.
Because of the operational nature of these pressure zones, calculations for supply and demand
will include a pressure zone and all zones above it to determine if a water shortage situation is
pending or exists.
WateY ShoYtage Plan Elements
Ideally, the City would respond to the threat of a shortage and manage demand to avoid the
shortage. The following are three different conditions and the appropriate responses in order to
manage demand and maintain system pressure for critical uses. Each condition level includes
7/ 13/201 1 Page 24 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
the following elements:
1. Triggering Conditions
2. Initiation Procedures
3. Demand Management Response
4. Termination Procedures
Because Meridian's system does not include large storage facilities, it relies on instantaneous
pumping capacity from wells to serve peak demands. Therefore, the triggering conditions for
determining whether a shortage is pending or exists are based on the Peak Hour Demand in
relation to the pumping capacity of the system.
It is important to note that the City will take additional actions to correct or mitigate whatever
problems have lead to a water shortage. The responses considered in this plan are only directed
to managing demand /encouraging conservation.
Another important note is that the termination of a Supply Condition can mean the condition has
improved or gotten worse, so the demand management response selected should be appropriate
to the change in condition.
7/ 13/201 1 Page 25 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Water Supplv Condition 1: Possible Water Shortage Predicted
Triggering Conditions:
Forecast Peak Hour Demand plus fire flow through the next 6 months exceeds the current
capacity of any pressure zone and the zones above it combined.
Initiation Procedures:
Water Division works with Engineering Division to assess current pumping capacity and forecast
demands based on current demand patterns, historic trends, and other available data. Water
Superintendent makes determination that condition exists and notifies the Public Works Director,
who declares the condition to the Mayor's Office. The Mayor officially declares the condition to
the public and initiates an appropriate demand management response.
Demand Management Response:
Work with the Public Works Director and Public Affairs Officer to organize outreach effort to
request voluntary water conservation. Consider the following options:
~ Use billing inserts to inform customers of the situation
Provide press release for Website
Distribute press release HOAs, businesses, and customers by email
Terminatio~a Procedures:
Water Division works with Engineering Division to assess pumping capacity and refine demand
forecasts. Water Superintendent makes determination that condition no longer exists and notifies
the Public Works Director, who informs the Mayor and Council. The Mayor officially declares
the change in condition to the public and initiates the appropriate demand management response
if any.
7/ 13/201 1 Page 26 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Water Supply Condition 2: Probable Water Shortage Predicted
Triggering Conditions:
Forecast Peak Hour Demand through the next six months exceeds of the current capacity of any
pressure zone and the zones above it combined.
Initiation Procedures:
Water Division works with Engineering Division to assess current pumping capacity and forecast
demands based on current demand patterns, historic trends, and other available data. Water
Superintendent makes determination that condition exists and notifies the Public Works Director,
who declares the condition to the Mayor's Office. The Mayor officially declares the condition to
the public and initiates an appropriate demand management response.
Demand Management Response:
Work with the Public Works Director and Public Affairs Officer to organize outreach effort to
request voluntary water conservation. Consider the following options:
• Press release may need to be distributed to media for general release
• Use billing inserts to inform customers of the situation
• Provide press release for Website
• Distribute press release HOAs, businesses, and customers by email
Consider implementing mandatory conservation measures:
• Prohibit outdoor use of City water
• Initiate conservation rate schedule
• Charge emergency conservation fees for residential use over account "winter averages"
(average monthly use from January through April)
• Initiate probable water shortage rate schedule - TBD.
Terminatio~a Procedures:
Water Division works with Engineering Division to assess pumping capacity and refine demand
forecasts. Water Superintendent makes determination that condition no longer exists and notifies
the Public Works Director, who informs the Mayor and Council. The Mayor officially declares
the change in condition to the public and initiates the appropriate demand management response
if any.
7/ 13/201 1 Page 27 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Water Supplv Condition 3: Water Shortage Emergencv
Triggering Conditions:
Current Peak Hour Demand exceeds the current capacity of any pressure zone and the zones
above it combined.
Initiation Procedures:
Water Division works with Engineering Division to assess current pumping capacity and forecast
demands based on current demand patterns, historic trends, and other available data. Water
Superintendent makes determination that condition exists and notifies the Public Works Director,
who declares the condition to the Mayor's Office. The Mayor officially declares the condition to
the public and initiates an appropriate demand management response.
Demand Management Response:
Work with the Public Works Director and Public Affairs Officer to organize outreach effort to
request voluntary water conservation. Consider the following options:
• Press release may need to be distributed to media for general release
• Use billing inserts to inform customers of the situation
• Provide press release for Website
• Distribute press release HOAs, businesses, and customers by email, or phone alert
Initiate or continue probable water shortage rate schedule.
Consider implementing mandatory conservation measures:
• Prohibit outdoor use of City water
• Continue or initiate conservation rate schedule
• Charge emergency conservation fees for residential use over account "winter averages"
(average monthly use from January through April)
Terminatio~a Procedures:
Water Division works with Engineering Division to assess pumping capacity and refine demand
forecasts. Water Superintendent makes determination that condition no longer exists and notifies
the Public Works Director, who informs the Mayor and Council. The Mayor officially declares
the change in condition to the public and initiates the appropriate demand management response
if any.
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City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Appendix A -Water Conservation Working Group Members
Meridian Water Conservation Plan Working Group
Mark Erikson Saint Lukes Hospital
Frank Morandi Roaring Springs Water Park
Bill Martin /Derrick Martin Metro Express Car Wash
John Wiskus Meridian Resident
Mike Polk Meridian Resident
Thomas Baker Boise Resident /Teacher
Mark Fischer Meridian Resident
Liz Paul Idaho Rivers United
Pete Friedman Meridian Planning Deputy Director
Mollie Mangerich Meridian Environmental Program Manager
Dennis Teller Meridian Water Superintendent
Andy Roman Meridian Resident /Idaho Rivers United /
HOA Vice-President
Jeff Brooks Meridian Resident
Steve Eddy Fast Eddy's
7/ 13/201 1 Page 29 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Appendix B -Conservation Actions Considered
Below is a matrix of the conservation actions considered by the working group. Each concept
was discussed.
Water Conservation
Actions
Utility /City Practices
Reduce water used for
flushing City water mains
Reduce water used for fire
training
Reduce lost water -ensure
system leaks are detected
and stopped quickly
Reduce water consumption
and lost water -system
pressure management
Current Practice
Water division tracks water
used for flushing water
mains and for fire hydrant
tests. Additional planning
and modeling for reducing
water needed for flushing
will carry some cost.
Fire department tracks water
used
No leak detection program.
Currently manage pressure
zones between 60 and 80 psi
Proposed Action
Water supply filters (such as
green sand filters) may reduce
need for flushing. What do
other cities do? Reuse the
flushed water? Portable
filters?
Reclaimed water fire
hydrants? /truck filling?
Purchase leak detection
equipment and institute a
proactive program. Use
SCADA to monitor supply vs.
WWTP inflow.
Encourage customers to
install pressure reducing
valves at houses near higher
pressure areas. Could
outreach to customers with a
Develop reclaimed water Reclaimed water master plan
system /expand the use of currently being developed
reclaimed water
Convert potable water
irrigators to reclaimed
water irrigation
Reclaimed water master plan
effort
Convert large potable
water users (other than
irrigation) to reclaimed
water
Calibrate source meters
Reclaimed water master plan
effort
map.
Reclaimed water hydrants?
Install reclaimed water as
opportunities arrive.
Convert potable water
irrigators to reclaimed water
irrigation according to master
planning guidance.
Convert large potable water
users (other than irrigation) to
reclaimed water according to
master plan guidance.
Currently not done regularly Startup program.
7/13/201 1 Page 30 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Water Conservation
Actions
Perform indoor water
audits for customers
Perform landscape
irrigation audits (city
water)
Benchmark and leverage
other suppliers' efforts and
Perform landscape
irrigation audits on City
parks and other facilities
Perform fixture audit and
replacement if needed in
current City buildings.
Use high efficiency
fixtures in all new City
building construction
Seek conservation program
funding from state, county
or federal sources.
Identify a Water
Conservation Coordinator
Current Practice
Water leak detection on case-
by-case basis for customers
or when abnormally high
usage is noted. This system
is automated. Dennis to
provide details of how it
works.
No audits
Install weather based smart
controllers in City Parks
Proposed Action
Alert automatically when
customers' use goes up a
given % (TBD). Encourage
water audits by customer
(self) or by private business
through outreach. Attach note
to bills regarding usage
compared to history or
average customers. Look at
top users and audit some of
them, then use that info for
outreach. Partner with home
improvement stores -water
conservation kiosk.
Develop audit pilot program.
Work with other government
offices to cooperate with their
conservation efforts.
Support Parks efforts.
NA Perform fixture audit and
replacement if needed in
current City buildings. Also
make sure efficient fixtures
are working as intended
(signage, valve direction, etc.)
Perform cost effective
corrective actions as needed.
Last building (City Hall) was Coordinate with building
LEED Silver
NA
No Water Conservation
Coordinator
services to ensure fixtures in
new construction are high
efficiency.
Seek conservation program
funding from state, county, or
federal sources.
Water Conservation
Coordinator recommended to
be added to .5 time position
duties in Environmental
Division.
7/ 13/201 1 Page 31 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Water Conservation
Actions
Approve a conservation
budget
Current Practice
No budget for conservation
Benchmark Meridian's
conservation efforts with
other similar cities -
include in annual report to
Council.
Form regional water
conservation group.
Meet with IDWR regularly
to discuss ground and
surface water conservation
issues
Low water user awards
Ordinances and Rules
Meter water to customers
Meter water to individual
units in multi-family
buildings.
NA
Proposed Action
Request a budget of (TBD)
for water conservation from
City Council.
Benchmark Meridian's
conservation efforts with
other similar cities -include
in annual report to Council.
NA Explore formation of regional
water conservation group.
NA Meet with IDWR regularly to
discuss ground and surface
water conservation issues.
This action compliments the
formation of a regional water
conservation group.
Recognize people or
businesses that practice
conservation, e.g. yard signs.
Meter water to all customers
Structure rates to Water rate = $5.38 + $1.86 /
emphasize consumption 1000 gal
over base
Charge city accounts like Currently meter usage, but
other customers do not charge ourselves
Use a tiered rate structure NA
Continue to meter water to all
customers.
Collect a Conservation Fee NA
Benchmark other cities to see
if any are requiring new
multi-family buildings to have
individual meters to each unit.
Encourage property managers
to teach conservation for their
own or their tenants' benefit.
Continue. Use a portion of
collected rates to fund
conservation efforts.
Don't charge, but review
usage and make sure City
departments are on board and
demonstrating conservation
methods.
Explore feasibility of tiered
rate structure.
(Put conservation funding in
water rates.)
7/13/201 1 Page 32 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Water Conservation Current Practice Proposed Action
Actions
Landscaping Current ordinance Continue use of surface water
encourages use of surface for irrigation. Develop
water for irrigation. planning ordinances that
encourage and incentivize
conservation in landscaping.
Create design standards for
landscape features to ensure
that they don't' waste water
(e.g. berms). Grass reduction,
xeriscape berms, etc.
Residential activities Building codes control Examine benefits of adopting
fixtures 2009 plumbing code. Check
with Dennis / Brent.
Industrial activities Building codes control Examine benefits of adopting
fixtures 2009 plumbing code. Check
with Building Services
Division.
Construction activities Code requires rental of Continue current practice.
meters for filling trucks and Build reclaimed water fill
other activities. points and encourage use of
reclaimed water for dust
control.
Indoor Water Use -explore Research /Clarify this issue.
opportunities to amend
Idaho Plumbing Code to
allow reclaimed water for
indoor uses.
Require upgrades to How can we incentivize?
fixtures as a condition of What is current account setup
sale of property fee? Can we have customer
contact encourage fixture
upgrades for customers' long
term benefit? Use real estate
community to outreach also.
Outreach
Discuss /assist schools Some activity Continue efforts with schools.
with conservation Get them to consider more
measures efficient fixtures.
Distribute educational Pamphlets available at Water Continue and expand.
pamphlets on conservation Department
(lawn watering, conversion
to low water use
landscaping, indoor use
practices, etc.)
7/13/201 1 Page 33 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Water Conservation
Actions
Conduct presentations in
collaboration with other
organizations -
professional, HOA, etc.
Develop web page
dedicated to water
conservation, including
tips, electronic brochures,
links to other sites, and
reports on innovative
technologies
Educate about peak usage
control (amount and time
of usage) to reduce peaks.
Current Practice Proposed Action
Conduct presentations in
collaboration with other
organizations -professional,
HOA, etc. Have HOA
contests to see which
subdivisions do best.
Some tips in Water Division Develop web page dedicated
section of current website - to water conservation,
not very extensive including tips, electronic
brochures, links to other sites,
and reports on innovative
technologies. Links to other
sites, kids pages, games, etc.
Educate about peak usage
control (amount and time of
usage) to reduce peaks.
New construction and upgrades- not City owned
Improve plant facilities
maintenance
Upgrade cooling towers
Change to low water use
landscaping
Upgrade fixtures and
appliances -hotels,
schools, care facilities,
HOA maintained facilities
Upgrade fixtures and
appliances -older
residential buildings
Incentives
Give away faucet aerators
Give away or exchange
low flow shower heads
Provide rebates for high
efficiency toilets
Provide rebates for
efficiency clothes washers
Provide rebates for
irrigation system moisture
sensors
No outreach program to
encourage
No outreach program to
encourage
No outreach program to
encourage
No outreach program to
encourage
Outreach to these customers
No outreach program to
encourage
No give away /exchange
program
No give away /exchange
program
No rebate program
No rebate program
Evaluate cost /benefit.
Evaluate cost /benefit.
Evaluate which fixtures to
provide rebate for and
propose a plan. Benchmark
other cities.
No rebate program
7/ 13/201 1 Page 34 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Appendix C -City Customer Profile- 2010 Records
Number
of
Accounts Percent
Church
City
Commercial
Multi-Unit Residential
Residential
School
66 0.3%
36 0.1 %
1046 4.1 %
188 0.7%
24056 93.3%
404 1.6%
Residential Building Inventory
Year Number of Units Built
1970 to 1993 5,500
1994 to Present 20,400 (new building code was adopted in 1994)
7/13/201 1 Page 35 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Appendix D -Definitions
ADD- Average Day Demand: The total volume of water delivered to the system in a year,
divided by 365 days.
AWWA- American Water Works Association: An international nonprofit educational
association dedicated to safe water. Founded in 1881 as a forum for water professionals to share
information and learn from each other for the common good, AWWA is the authoritative
resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy for improving the quality and supply of
water in North America and beyond.
COMPASS- Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho: An association of local
governments working together to plan for the future of the region. The agency conducts this
work as the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for northern Ada County and Canyon
County. The federal government requires the formation of an MPO when an urban area reaches
50,000 people.
DEQ /IDEA: Idaho Department of Environmental Quality: The state agency tasked
with ensuring clean air, water, and land in the state and protecting Idaho citizens from the
adverse health impacts of pollution.
Groundwater: Groundwater is water that exists below the land surface.
Gpcpd: gallons per capita per day: Amount of water a person uses on average per day.
HOA: Homeowners Association
IDWR: Idaho Department of Water Resources- IDWR serves the people of Idaho and protects
their welfare by making sure water is conserved and available to sustain Idaho's economy,
ecosystem and the resulting quality of life.
MMD: Maximum Month Demand: The maximum volume of water delivered to the system
during any single month, divided by 30 days.
MDD: Maximum Day Demand: The maximum volume of water delivered to the system during
any single day.
MPO: Metropolitan Planning Organization: Afederally-mandated and federally-funded
transportation policy-making organization in the United States that is made up of representatives
from local government and governmental transportation authorities.
PHD: Peak Hour Demand: The maximum volume of water delivered to the system during any
single hour.
7/13/201 1 Page 36 of 37
City of Meridian
Water Conservation Plan
Potable Water: Potable water is water that can be consumed in any desired amount without
concern of adverse health effects. Water provided by community water systems including public
and private utilities is considered potable water.
Surface Water: Surface Water is water that is supplied by streams, rivers, and lakes. It is usually
stored in man-made reservoirs and transported through canals.
7/13/201 1 Page 37 of 37