Receding reservoirs, parched farms and wilting trees are constant reminders of California’s water plight. While many utilities are handing out fines for illegal water use, Olivenhain Municipal Water District (OMWD) is also utilizing technology to assist its customers in achieving their water conservation goals. OMWD has completed an 8,000-meter pilot study that is using smart technology to help customers fight the state’s epic drought.
“Our customers want to do their part in combating the drought. With the Sensus smart water technology, we are able to provide customers with water consumption data in a more granular manner, down to the hour, which can be very helpful in terms of identifying high-usage activities and leaks,” said Joey Randall, customer service manager, OMWD. “Together, we are managing this drought and preparing for the future.”
The water district manages its infrastructure with a Sensus smart water network,including the FlexNet®communication systemand OMNI™ commercial meters. Together, the technologies will help OMWD customers monitor usage and leaks, thereby assisting OMWD in continuing to meet its state-mandated 32 percent reduction in water usage.
“In portions of our district, we can click on a button and receive readings, failure notices, leak detection warnings and notifications of heavy water usage,” said Randall. “The reliability of the communications system and accuracy of the meters goes a long way to support our water use efficiency program.”
The utility also offers free workshops and recycled water for landscaping. “We have ambitious water reduction goals that we can meet by identifying leaks and helping residents and businesses find areas where they can cut back on water use,” said Randall.
Visit the drought resource center for more information on how Sensus technologies help utilities manage water.
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