The economic future of every community and the State of Texas depends on how well consumers and the state are able to manage its water resources. The wise and efficient use and development of a sustainable water supply is a responsibility shared by the NTMWD, other water suppliers, consumers, landowners, businesses, and the citizens of Texas. According to the 2007 State Water Plan, conservation accounts for nearly 23 percent of the projected additional water supply needed in 2060. It is vital, since water conservation and efficiency is a key strategy in meeting future water needs, that consumers become more knowledgeable regarding their water supply and motivated to practice water conservation in their daily routines.
Recognizing true water conservation is achieved by the success of end users, the NTMWD acknowledged the need to redirect consumer water use behaviors through education and public awareness. In 2006, the NTMWD began implementation of the statewide public awareness and water conservation program, “Water IQ: Know Your Water” (WIQ). The WIQ program assists in raising awareness of the need to conserve our water supplies both in times when the reservoirs are full and in times when drought conditions exist. It provides homeowners and businesses with easy, sensible tips that help them reduce both outdoor and indoor water usage during normal daily activities and advances awareness of local water supplies. Market research indicates that consumers who know the natural source of their water supply are more likely to conserve water and do his/her part to use water wisely to extend our natural resource. Research also indicates that the most motivating reason that leads consumers to use water more wisely and efficiently is saving water resources for future generations.
The NTMWD attributes reductions in water consumption to the heightened awareness of water use and the ongoing WIQ program. It is estimated that a reduction of 200 MGD during the peak summer months and an annualized reduction in water deliveries between 10-12 percent has been achieved. The NTMWD encourages water efficiency and conservation strategies and continues its water awareness outreach initiatives to extend available water supplies and to assist in meeting near and long-term water needs.
Try these tips for using water wisely and efficiently.
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