
The Town of Silver City initiated a water conservation planning process to evaluate ways to sustain and conserve its municipal groundwater supply. The water conservation plan was developed with guidance and review of a stakeholder group that included:
- Environmental Groups
- The General Public
- The Local Business Community
- Local Committees
- The New Mexico Environment Department
- Representation from the Town
- The Southwest New Mexico Council of Governments
- Water Associations
Goals
The Town has outlined the following goals for its water conservation program:
- Reduce outdoor water use
- Reduce water waste; not allowing wasted water to run down the streets will enhance public education efforts regarding the importance of water conservation
- Reduce peak summer demands for more efficient system operation and reduced energy use
- Reduce pumping and treatment costs
- Ensure a revenue-neutral program that can be financed by the Town
- Strengthen ordinances and policies relating to water conservation
- Minimize nonpoint source pollution by integrating stormwater management into the water conservation program
- Educate the public about water conservation and sustainable supply issues
- Incentivize conservation behavior
The Town Council adopted the plan on August 27, 2013, via Resolution 2013-32 (PDF). The Town anticipates a phased implementation program. After the first 5 years of the program, the Town will revisit its longer-term goals.