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1. How is conservation reflected in my water rates?

Sammamish Plateau Water utilizes a conservation based rate structure. Customers pay a base rate, and then are billed for consumption in four rate blocks. The price per unit of consumption increases as users consume more water and move into the higher rate blocks. The pricing and rate structure are designed to ensure efficient use and to minimize water waste.

2. Why do we need to conserve water?

It is important to protect and conserve water because it is a precious, limited resource. Only 1% of all of the world's water is drinkable. You use water for basic necessities such as sanitation and cooking, and also for discretionary uses such as lawn watering, car washing and filling swimming pools. Water utilities must remain within certain legal limits as to how much water they can draw from their supply sources.

Increased population pressures place a greater demand on water resources. Conserving water means more water is available in the environment for fish and wildlife. Using water wisely ensures that we have a sufficient water supply for ourselves and for future generations.

3. Does saving water in the home really make a difference?

Using water wisely can make a big difference! Here are some examples:
- Fixing a leaky faucet can save up to 300 gallons per month.
- Running your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full can save up to 1,000 gallons per month.
- Installing a water efficient shower head can save up to 750 gallons a month.
- Repairing a toilet leak can save up to 1,000 gallons per month.
- Shorten you shower by a minute or two can save up to 150 gallons per month.
- High efficiency toilets of 1.28 gallons per flush can save you over 4,000 gallons per year.

Small changes can equal big savings! (Sources: Water Use it Wisely, U.S. EPA WaterSense Program.)

4. How much do I need to water my lawn to keep it green?

Most lawns in our area need only 1 inch of water a week to stay healthy.
- Water your lawn early in the morning or late at night, since most water applied during the heat of the day will be lost due to evaporation.
- Avoid watering pavement areas, since this is water (and money) down the drain.
- Water in short, repeated intervals to minimize runoff.
- Water deeply, but infrequently, since short daily watering can lead to shallow root systems in your lawn.
- Most dormant summer lawns will revive with the winter rains.
- Many lawn problems are caused by poor soil structure beneath the turf layer. Consider an annual aeration, topdressing and overseeding program to enhance your turf soil structure and reduce compaction.