The City of Bend is launching a free sprinkler inspection pilot program for Bend water customers (both residential and business) this summer in an effort to increase irrigation efficiency and conserve our most precious natural resource, water. It is estimated that approximately 60 percent of all residential water use is for landscape irrigation. Much of that water is wasted due to misaligned or damaged sprinklers, runoff and improper scheduling.
“Everyone with an irrigation system has a responsibility to ensure that it is functioning properly and not wasting water,” said Mike Buettner, water conservation program manager for the City of Bend. “The drought conditions we’re experiencing in addition to the new utility rate structure that went into effect this month should motivate us all to take another look at how we can reduce our water consumption and get on a more sustainable path.”
The City Council recently approved a new rate structure in part to incentivize people to conserve water. Customers are now charged for all water used. Sprinkler inspections are conducted by City of Bend staff and include the following:
• A visual inspection to pinpoint any problems with the irrigation system
• Tests to measure the precipitation rate of the sprinklers
• Tests to determine how evenly the water is covering the intended area
• Soil sample to determine the root depth of soil type
Program participants will receive a free customized watering schedule as well as recommendations and tips to make their irrigation system more effective and efficient.
The City is currently accepting requests for appointments online at www.waterwisetips.org or by calling the WaterWise Program at 541-388-5569. Appointments will be made on a first come, first serve basis and will be scheduled during August and September, 2015.
