Saving water could also mean saving money, and Austin Water has rebate programs designed to help customers do both.
Martin Barbosa with Austin Water joined Sierra Waggoner on We Are Austin to break down some of the rebates available to Austinites and explain why now is a good time to start thinking about water conservation, even with the lakes nearly full.
Martin Barbosa with Austin Water joined Sierra Waggoner on We Are Austin to break down some of the rebates available to Austinites and explain why now is a good time to start thinking about water conservation, even with the lakes nearly full.
Austin’s lakes are currently about 99% full, but Barbosa said that doesn’t mean conservation should take a back seat.
“Our lakes are full. It’s about 99%. I just checked this morning,” Barbosa said. “As kids are heading back to school, it’s a perfect reminder that our homework for the rest of us is to be mindful of how are you using that water going forward?”
Barbosa said saving water now can help Austin prepare for hotter, drier conditions in the future.
“Saving now, so that way, whenever it does get drier and it gets hotter, and then that water starts evaporating, we’re prepared for the future,” he said.
One option for homeowners looking to conserve is Austin Water’s WaterWise Landscape Rebate. The program can help customers make changes to their landscaping, including incorporating native plants that require less water.
“If you incorporate that kind of giving your landscape a glow up, so to speak, incorporating native plants like Texas sage, Texas is always a great one, that use less water, and that means more money in your pocket,” Barbosa said.
“If you incorporate that kind of giving your landscape a glow up, so to speak, incorporating native plants like Texas sage, Texas is always a great one, that use less water, and that means more money in your pocket,” Barbosa said.
Eligible customers can receive up to $3,000 in rebates through the WaterWise Landscape program.
Austin Water also offers a rebate for rainwater harvesting. Barbosa said customers can receive up to $5,000 if they are approved.
“You can get up to $5,000 again if you’re approved for that,” Barbosa said.
Austin Water also offers a rebate for rainwater harvesting. Barbosa said customers can receive up to $5,000 if they are approved.
Rainwater harvesting can also give homeowners an additional water source for things like gardens, while helping them prepare for future changes in rainfall.
“Now is the time to start thinking about that,” Barbosa said. “With the rainwater harvesting, we get that right now. Like, hey, an extra credit. You’re saving money, plus that’s water that you can use for those fall gardens.”
For customers wondering whether they qualify for a rebate, Barbosa said the application process can be completed online. Once an application is submitted, Austin Water will use the email address provided to notify customers about their approval status.
Barbosa also encouraged customers to reach out to Austin Water with questions about the available programs and eligibility requirements.
Whether you’re looking to update your landscaping, install a rainwater harvesting system or simply become more mindful of your water use, Austin Water’s rebate programs can help make conservation a little easier — and potentially put some money back in your pocket.
For more information and to explore available rebates, visit Austin Water online or call them at (512) 972-0101!
For more information and to explore available rebates, visit Austin Water online or call them at (512) 972-0101!