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The red rock beauty of the St. George area continues to attract new residents.
Whether for golf, exploring the unique outdoors or simply the relaxing lifestyle,
our community continues to expand.
For many people, water comes out of our taps, and we see the desert blooming,
so we ask, "WHY CONSERVE?" This three-legged stool symbolizes a "balanced
approach" the city is encouraging to ensure an adequate supply of clean,
reliable water.
Our current water supply is the least expensive, cleanest and most reliable
source available. Future supplies will be piped from longer distances, require
more chemicals to meet Clean Water standards, additional infrastructure
and personnel -- which means higher rates.
Ironically, we use less water in the winter time (when more people are living
and visiting here) than we do in the summer. Our winter water use is approximately
10,000,000 (million) gallons per day, while summer use is approximately
40,000,000 (million) gallons per day.
Much of our challenge for meeting future water needs comes from those who
enjoy the rugged beauty of the surrounding area, but insist on large, green
lawns and lush vegetation in their backyards. The City encourages residents
to consider low water landscape designs and plant material that includes
a diverse mixture of trees, bushes, and flowers. It can even include lawn
in appropriate places! Xeriscape is becoming increasingly popular, and is
more compatible with the local natural environment.
Demand for water in the summer is outpacing our current supply. We use the
most water at a time when we get the least amount of rain--summertime! Over
62% of Utah's water is used for lawns and landscapes, washing cars, hosing
down driveways or even cooling off kids. Utah's per capita water use is
321gallons per capita per day (GPCPD) compared to the Mountain States average
of 241 gpcpd and the national average of 179 gpcpd. |
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