Water Conservation - Seasonal Restrictions on Reclaimed Water

Reclaimed Water “Frequency of Use” During Dry Season:

The reclaimed water shortages experienced in recent years during the non-rainy season have placed considerable stress on the reclaimed distribution system. Due to operational experience during these dry periods of the year, a proposal has been passed to limit lawn watering at these times to three days per week. This limitation will not only alleviate seasonal operational shortages but will actually help build a healthier lawn. Horticultural experts at the University of Florida and The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) recommend less frequent watering to help establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.

Benefits of using reclaimed water:

• Creates an alternate water source for irrigation while reducing demand on potable water sources utilized for drinking water (view chart showing drop in per capita potable water usage )
• Reduces the cost of landscape irrigation when it replaces potable water
• Reduces fertilizer costs due to the nitrogen and phosphorus in reclaimed water
• Beautifies our community by enhancing the appearance of landscaping
• Reduces fertilizer use - Reclaimed water contains the same nutrients found in common fertilizers.

For more information, select a link below:

• Ordinance Relating to Reclaimed Water Usage
• FAQs
  Answers to frequently asked questions regarding the reclaimed water ordinance.
• Reclaimed Water Schedule
  Current watering schedule for reclaimed water.
• Application for Variance from Reclaimed Schedule
  Application for Variance from Pinellas County Code 82-3.
• SWFWMD Year-Round Conservation Measures
  Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) Chapter 40D-22 policy regarding conservation.
• Healthy Lawn Information
  Your lawn may have a drinking problem.
• Turf and Landscape Irrigation Recommendations
  Recommendations from University of Florida/The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) for irrigating “deep and infrequently” and consideration of application rate, month, and climate area.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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