Water

Goal Update

2021 Baseline: 11.1 gal per sqft

October 2023 Update: 11.1 gal per sqft

2030 Goal: 9.5 gal per sqft

Historical Water Consumption

Rolling 12-month water consumption per occupant

After significant reductions in water consumption throughout 2013-2015, the district experienced an increase during the spring and summer months of 2016 due to less rainfall and very warm months. Between 2017 and 2020, water consumption began trending downward once again, until COVID-19 impacts confounded results. Nonetheless, it is likely that water use will continue to decrease over time, following this longer trend.

Strategies

The District’s Energy & Water Management Team is heavily focused on monitoring water use and providing direction and solutions to schools for continued reduction. The Environmental Stewardship Plan also outlines a variety of additional strategies for reducing water use, both in buildings and on grounds (for irrigation). Strategies include, but are not limited to:

- Using native and drought-resistant plants, prairie grass, and other landscaping strategies that reduce the need for irrigation (and maintenance)
- Continued installation of water-efficient fixtures as part of facilities upgrades
- Education and communication around water-saving behaviors, such as reporting leaks promptly and turning off faucets
- Improved submetering and data tracking to monitor anomalies and address concerns as soon as possible

How to Support this Goal at Your School

Research use of faucet aerators and present findings to principal and head building custodian
Establish a monthly “Leak Patrol Team” that checks for water leaks and reports findings to the head building custodian
Use and monitor a precipitation gauge and encouraging maintenance staff to modify the
school’s irrigation schedule based on rainfall levels
Research water conservation benefits of using native plants for landscaping and share the
findings with the principal and head building custodian

*A new “Green Team Guide” will be available in the coming months to share sustainability tips and strategies that can be implemented at individual schools!