2006-03-28_PWETC_AgendaPacket - Laserfiche WebLink

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PART III WATER CONSERVATION PLAN SECTION A. Legislation Water users are required to employ the best available means and practices to promote the efficient use of water (Minnesota Rules 6115.0770). Milmesota Laws of 1993, Chapter 186, requires public water suppliers to implement demand reduction measures before seeking approval to consh'uct new wells or to increase the authorized withdrawals of water. The Federal Energy Policy Act of 1992 requires that only high efficiency plumbing fixtures be manufactured after January 1, 1994. The City of Roseville code regulates use of water for certain purposes, mandates repair of leaks, and allows for restrictions on lawn sprinkling and other uses. SECTION B. Role The City of Roseville has promoted water conservation for many years as detailed in Section G with the purpose being environmental responsibility. However, the Utility recognizes that it must act in the best public interest economically as well as be a responsible steward of natural resources. Aggressive water conservation programs are imperative in locations where the supply may not satisfy the demand or where escalating treatment costs could be avoided. The City of St. Paul Water Utility as our wholesale supplier indicates the ability to supply the City well in excess of our current peak needs for water in non-emergency conditions. Protecting and enhancing water quality, informing and educating the public on conservation measures, and reducing unaccounted-for water are the primary areas where conservation efforts by the Utility are directed. SECTION C. Potential Conservation potential can best be addressed by analyzing the effect the Energy Policy Act of 1992 is predicted to have on water use. The Act mandates that plumbing fixtures manufactured after January 1, 1994, must be high-efficiency models, with some exceptions. A large percentage of the homes in Roseville were built between 1955-1975. The City has promoted replacement of toilets and showerheads in these homes. Seasonal demand is illustrated on page 17. Consumption is closely related to temperature in summer and no correlation can be found for winter. As the temperatures increase in summer, consumption also increases. It seems reasonable that the increase is mainly due to outdoor watering and other outdoor activities. Analysis of unaccounted-for water is useful in assessing the efficiency of a water system. The term "unaccounted-for water" has traditionally been defined as the Page 11 of 22