Irrigation Overview
Alternate Day schedule
Planning a water efficient landscape
Rain Barrels
Water has become an increasingly precious natural resource as population growth throughout the region has strained supplies, especially in summer when people water lawns more frequently. In 2001, Cary and Apex completed expansion of their treatment plant. However, wise water use remains a necessity.
To reduce the daily demand, the Town educates citizens and provides incentives for conservation while regulating irrigation to minimize water waste. Brochures, water use evaluation, workshops and the summertime "Beat the Peak" program teach how to save water and money. Ordinances address rain sensors, waste and alternate day watering. Rate changes that took effect in March 2001 ensure that those who take more than their share pay extra.
In June 2001, Cary became the first municipality in the state to pump treated wastewater to homes and businesses for irrigation and cooling. The reclaimed water project began with several hundred customers, lessening the amount of drinking water that winds up on landscaping.
The Town of Cary allows installation of automatic irrigation systems with a permit from the Inspections and Permits Department. Water from wells or ponds may also be used for irrigation with a permit from Wake County.
This website provides advice on choosing the right controller, the device that runs the sprinkler system, and on how to keep the system working properly. A landscaping section includes tips on grass and other plants that use less water and on how to prepare the soil. Watering efficiently, such as with drip irrigation for plants, saves money while keeping yards healthy.
Watering the right way and on the right schedule saves money while keeping yards healthy.