From The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel (Richie Ann Ashcraft):
The Drought Response Information Project (DRIP) noted that the city had used 30 percent less water in the past six years. In appreciation, the city was awarded a 2012 Drought Recognition plaque at Hawthorne Park from representatives from the Clifton Water District, Ute Water Conservancy District and other DRIP committee members.
Rob Schoeber, director of Parks and Recreation for the city, attributed the low water usage to the Maxicom centralized computer control system which measures the amount of water each field needs to remain lush.
If it rains at midnight and there is enough water, then the sprinklers won’t come on in the morning, explained Schoeber. The system also monitors the evapo-transpiration rate, adjusting the watering schedule accordingly, he said.
The high tech system was installed at most of the city operated parks and fields in 2006. Other components have been added through the years as the budget allows. “The cost really comes out in savings of water over the long term,” Schoeber said.
More conservation coverage here.
