Water Conservation

Water conservation is defined as the preservation, control and development of water resources, both surface and groundwater and the prevention of pollution. So, we all have a stake in the efficient use of our water resources. Providing safe drinking water, maintaining economic competitiveness and protecting ecosystems are all advanced by improvement in water use efficiency. Reducing water demand is typically the lowest cost option for meeting the needs of the future. 

Water Conservation Programs

Water Conservation Plan

The State of Utah Department of Water Resources recognize the potential of conservation programs to extend current water supplies and have established a statewide conservation goal of reducing per capita water use from levels measured in 2000 by 25 percent by the year 2025. Murray City has adopted conservation as a key element in its long-term plan to serve its customers. Murray City Water prepares a Conservation Plan every 5 years and presents it to the City Council for adoption.

Mainline Replacement Program

Budgets 1.7 million per year to repair and replace old infrastructure.  This is equivalent to 0.9 percent of Murray City’s distribution pipe network. If Murray City continues to spend $1.7 million/year for pipe replacements (increasing with inflation); Murray City should expect to replace the pipes in its water system distribution network every 100-years.

Automatic Meter Reading (AMR)

All retail meters are AMR.. Status data, diagnostic and consumption data is read monthly. AMI is coming soon, which will give the City and its customers live and continuous data.

High Consumption Notices

The City sends “high consumption/possible leak” notices to customers when their monthly consumption is higher than normal.

Upgraded SCADA Control System

Continuous improvements to this system increase our overall system operating and reporting efficiency.

Tiered Rate Structure

The City has established a tiered water rate structure to further encourage water conservation.

Consumer Confidence Report

Each year, water conservation information is included in the consumer confidence report. This report is sent to all Murray City customers and is posted on the City’s web site. The report also includes information on the City’s water sources, water quality information, and conservation tips.

Public Outreach

Actively involved in providing outreach to our customers at 4th of July activities, Earth Day and other community events. Distributes water conserving material and educates customers about conservation and the City’s water system. The City’s website provides information about conservation as well as links to other conservation oriented we sites. Conservation messaging is also posted on and distributed through social media.

Elementary Education Program (Water Wise Kids)

We have partnered with the National Energy Foundation (NEF) to implement a water wise education program to all 4th grade students in the Murray School District. Program includes classroom presentations regarding water and conservation. The City provides the students with a take home water kit that includes toilet leak detector tablets, a dual spray swivel aerator and a shower timer. Students also participate in a drawing contest where winners are awarded prizes, and their artwork is showcased in our Consumer Confidence Report.        

Utah Rivers Council’s RainHarvest Program

The City has partnered with Utah Rivers Council RainHarvest program to reduce the cost of the rain barrels for their residents. This program encourages community members to collect rainwater, reduce culinary water use and improve the water quality of rivers, streams and lakes.    

City Ordinances Regarding Water Conservation

There are currently two ordinances related to water or water conservation. The first ordinance is entitled “Executive Orders of Mayor Limiting Use of Water” which states that in the event of scarcity of water, the Mayor has the power to place restrictions on water use and provide penalties for those not incompliance. The second ordinance is entitled “Wasting Water Prohibited”. This ordinance prohibits the pressurized irrigation of landscape between the hours of ten o’ clock (10:00) A.M. and six o’ clock (6:00) P.M. any violation of this ordinance results in a penalty for those not in compliance as well.

Water-Waster Notification Program 

The City maintains a water-waster notification program where citizens can call in and report an observed water-waster. As water wasters are identified, an employee of Murray Water Department contacts the customer and provides tips on indoor and outdoor water conservation to help the customers reduce their usage.

WaterSense Program Partner

WaterSense is a voluntary partnership program created by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with a goal of protecting the nation’s water supply by promoting and enhancing the market for water-efficient products and services and consistently spreading the message of water efficiency. Murray City has utilized many of the tools provided by WaterSense.