Six years into a record-breaking drought and counting, San Antonians know their well-practiced, water-wise routines by heart: following once-a-week watering rules, getting rid of some grass (to prep for drought-hearty planting later) and being mindful of leaks.
To these water-savvy citizens we offer a heartfelt thank you. Our landscapes may look a little crispy, but your diligence ensures ample water for essential uses in our homes and businesses. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, here are some ways your city-owned water utility helps care for this precious resource.
Repairing main breaks faster than ever
In recent years SAWS has added more people, more equipment and better science to the task of repairing pipes when dry, shifting soils cause them to leak. Our repair times have never been faster — not an easy task for crews working in blistering heat. Please give a nod of thanks when you see SAWS workers out there.
Managing diverse water supplies
With Edwards Aquifer water availability cut 40% or more due to drought, our 12 other water projects from seven different sources are taking center stage. But there’s no magic button to make that happen. It takes expert engineers and water operators working 24/7 to keep 8,000 miles of pipe flowing.
Industry-leading conservation
In addition to our popular landscape coupons and other rebates, SAWS is working directly with businesses and homeowner groups to reduce their landscape watering footprint. Our updated watering rules have yielded fewer repeat violations and faster issue resolutions.
Also, new outreach efforts help make sure everyone knows the current drought stage and how to manage through it. You can sign up to get personalized water-saving advice at saws.org/subscribe.
ConnectH2O electronic meter program
Our ambitious effort to replace all 600,000 mechanical water meters is on track for completion by the end of 2025. ConnectH2O expands on our conservation success by letting each customer monitor and manage their own water use via the SAWS My Account website or mobile app. Learn more at saws.org/connect.
Planning for our water future
Thirty years ago, 100 percent of our water came from the Edwards Aquifer. Today, thanks to investment in diverse water supplies, our community has been able to manage our current, extreme drought more effectively.
SAWS also regularly updates the city’s Water Management Plan. This roadmap for forecasting our long-term water use and needs is revised about every five years to keep us water-secure for generations to come. Learn more at WaterPlanSA.com.