Water Resources Management Guideline

ANRS BoWRD Water Resources Management Guideline 2012

Let us use our water resources in sustainable manner

Amhara National Regional State Water Resource

Development Bureau

Water Resource Management Core Process

Water Resources Management Guideline

Prepared By: Tesfa Gebrie

&

Demelash Ademe

November, 2012



ACRONYMS

ANRS Amhara National Regional State

BoWRD Bureau of Water Resource Development

GWP Global Water Partnership

IWRM Integerated Water Resource Management

MDG Millennium Development Goals

NWRSB National Water Resource and Sanitation Board



Contents

1. Useful Water Resource Management Words ................................................................................ 4

2. Uses of Water ................................................................................................................................. 6

3. Integrated Water Resource Management ..................................................................................... 8

3.1 Water Management Principles .............................................................................................. 9

3.2 Central Points for Public Participation in Integrated Water Resource Management ....... 10

3.3 Water Resource Management Tools .................................................................................... 10

3.4 Four key areas of water management, namely: .................................................................. 10

3.5 Why participate in an IWRM process? ............................................................................... 11

3.6 Challenges of IWRM ............................................................................................................ 12

3.7 Constituents of water management .................................................................................... 13

3.8 Key Issues in Water Resources Management ...................................................................... 13

3.9 IWRM Strategies.................................................................................................................. 14

3.10 Management functions ......................................................................................................... 15

4. Water conservation ...................................................................................................................... 17

4.1 Goals of water conservation ................................................................................................... 17

4.2 Household applications .......................................................................................................... 18

4.3 Commercial applications ........................................................................................................ 19

4.4 Agricultural applications ........................................................................................................ 19

4.5 Ways to Conserve Water ........................................................................................................ 20

4.5.1 Ways to Conserve Water Indoors ................................................................................... 20

4.5.2 Ways to Conserve Water Outdoors ................................................................................. 22

5. Water Use Efficiency ................................................................................................................... 23

5.1 Water efficient solutions......................................................................................................... 23

5.1.1 Residential...................................................................................................................... 23

5.1.2 Manufacturing ................................................................................................................ 24

5.1.3 Utilities ........................................................................................................................... 24

5.2 Steps for a successful water efficiency program ...................................................................... 24

6 Water Recycling ........................................................................................................................... 25

6.1 Uses for Recycled Water ........................................................................................................ 25

7 References .................................................................................................................................... 26



1. Useful Water Resource Management Words

Environment means water, land, air including all organic and inorganic matter and living things

and the interacting natural systems.

Watershed is the area from which surface runoff drains into a stream channel, lake, reservoir, or

other body of water through a common outlet.

Watershed Development: can be defined as the rational utilization of all the natural resources

for optimum production to fulfill the present need with minimal degradation of natural resources

such as land, water, and environment.

Watershed Management: A process of formulating and implementing a course of action that

involves a region's natural and human resources taking into account social, political, economic,

environmental and institutional factors operating within a watershed, the surrounding river basin,

and other relevant regions to achieve desired social objectives.

Basin means a geographical area, described by the watershed limits of a water system including

surface and groundwater (where surface and ground water divide coincides) flowing into a

common terminus or the entire geographical area drained by a major river and its intersecting

streams.

Catchment means any area of land or subsurface water, which naturally or artificially drains to a

watercourse, stream, river, lake, dam (surface or subsurface) or to underground aquifer from

which water may be abstracted for different purposes;

Wet land means areas of marsh, fen, peat and, or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent

or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh or salt including areas of marine water

less than six meter deep at low tide;

Water Resources Management means utilization, conservation, protection and control that

incorporates physical, social, economic as well as environmental interdependence,



Comprehensive Water Resources Management involves treating all the activities that use

water (water supply, irrigation, hydropower, etc.) irrespective of whose mandate it is.

Integrated Water Resources Management is a process which promotes the coordinated

development and management of water, land and related resources, in order to maximize the

resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the

sustainability of vital eco-systems.

Water Resources Assessment An assessment of the aspects of the supply and demand for water

resources.

Water Resources Development Physical activities to improve the beneficial use of water for

different uses.

Water Resources Planning - Planning of the development, protection, conservation, control and

allocation of a scarce resource (sectoral and intersectoral), matching water availability and

demand, taking into account the national objectives and constraints and the interests of

stakeholders.

Water Demand Management - The use of pricing and non-pricing instruments, to efficiently

and rationally use the available water resources.



2. Uses of Water

Water is used for basic human needs and reducing absolute poverty is directly related to the

availability and quality of food and to the prevalence of disease. Clearly water is of fundamental

importance for food production, for drinking, for sanitation and for hygiene. Adequate water in

both quantity and quality underpins health and basic quality of life.

Water for social and economic development is clearly linked to the IWRM focus on the three

‗E‘s - namely: equity, economics and environment. Water for social development includes the

provision of education and health care. Without clean water supplies and good sanitation

facilities in schools and hospitals social development is stymied.

Water has a fundamental importance for economic development through energy and industrial

production. It is needed for many forms of energy production - hydro power and the water for

cooling of thermal and nuclear power stations. And energy in turn is needed for pumping,

including extraction of water from underground aquifers. Water is needed for many industries

and those industries in turn have effect, through pollution and abstraction, on water quality that

affects both downstream users and natural ecosystems. A major water use is non-food

agriculture, in particular recent shifts towards growing bio-fuels. This has significant

implications for water resources management.

Most of the uses of water are listed in the table below;

1. Water Supply

A. Domestic

B. Treated

C. Untreated

D. Industrial

2. Disposal (Wastewater)

A. Domestic (water)

– Solid waste

B. Industrial (water)

– Solid waste

C. Agricultural

D. Stock breeding

E. Rainwater (urban)

3. Agriculture

A. Floodwater farming

B. Recessional

– natural

– artificial

C. Irrigated farming

– traditional

– modern

– agro-industry

10. Forestry

A. Agro-forestry

B. Silviculture

C. Logging

– firewood

– sawmill lumber

– craft wood

– pharmacopoeia

– exudation products

– seeds and fruit

D. Gathering

– firewood

– sawmill lumber

– craft wood

– pharmacopoeia

– exudation products

– seeds and fruit

11. Tourism

A. Hunting and fishing

B. Sightseeing

C. Leisure

D. Health



D. Rain fed

4. Stock Breeding

A. Watering

B. Pasture

– natural

– irrigated

C. Transit zones

D. Transit corridors

E. Sanitary zoos

5. Fishing

A. Self-employed

B. Semi-industrial

6. Aquaculture

A. Fish farming

– intensive

– extensive

B. Water breeding

(crocodiles, geese, ducks)

7. Hunting

A. Traditional

B. Recreational

C. Poaching

8. Beekeeping

9. Transportation

A. Navigation

– canoes

– ships,

B. Floating

12. Recreation

A. Swimming

B. Water sports

C. Cruises

D. Hunting and fishing)

E. Cultural

13. Conservation

A. Protected areas

B. Water Length of section

C. Soil

14. Energy

A. Hydroelectric power

B. Thermal power

C. Bio-gas

D. Renewable power

15. Removal Of Material

A. Construction–brickwork

B. Gold panning

C. Arts and crafts

D. Other products

16. Human Health

A. Ingestion

B. Contact

C. Sites

– natural

– artificial

D. Thermal waters



3. Integrated Water Resource Management

Definition

Integrated water resources management is a systematic process for the sustainable development,

allocation and monitoring of water resource use in the context of social, economic and

environmental objectives. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is a holistic

approach to water resources management that is widely promoted throughout the world to help

better understand, protect and develop water resources in a coordinated fashion, thus contributing

to sustainable development.

The Global Water Partnership defines IWRM as: “a process which promotes the coordinated

development and management of water, land and related resources, in order to maximize the

resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the

sustainability of vital eco-systems”. Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) is a new

method of managing water resources. Unlike methodologies tried before, IWRM is based on

cooperation between all the sectors that influence water resources including forestry, agriculture,

public works and private sector. The Millennium Development goals (MDG's) were the driving

force behind the formulation of this new concept, in order to try and half the number of people

without access to clean water and proper sanitation.

IWRM principles provide a platform for equitable, efficient and sustainable utilization of water

resources. If the MDG's are to be met then IWRM needs to be taken seriously and applied to

water resources management in practice. Especially in countries that are struggling to deal with

pressures put on their dwindling water resources. In order to create a better future, these

challenges need to be overcome now.

Integrated water resources management is therefore a systematic process for the sustainable

development, allocation and monitoring of water resource use in the context of social, economic

and environmental objectives. It contrasts with the sectoral approach that applies in many

countries. Lack of cross-sectoral linkages leads; to uncoordinated water resource development

and management, resulting in conflict, waste and unsustainable systems.

The three primary objectives of integrated water resources management are:

Empower women, men, and communities to decide on their level of access to safe water

and hygienic living conditions and on the types of water-using economic activities they

desire and to organize to achieve them.

Produce more food and create more sustainable livelihoods per unit of water applied

(more crops and jobs per drop) and ensure access for all to the food required to sustain

healthy and productive lives.

Manage human water use so as to conserve quantity and quality of freshwater and

terrestrial ecosystems that provide services to humans and living things.



Five primary actions are required to achieve these objectives:

Involve all stakeholders in integrated management.

Move to full-cost pricing of water services for all human uses.

Increase public funding for research and innovation in the public interest.

Recognize the need for cooperation on integrated water resource management in

international river basins.

Massively increase investments in water.

3.1 Water Management Principles

Key principles of the IWRM process

Equity of access, efficiency of use and sustainability of the resources base

Sustainable development & regional equities & responsibilities

Integrated approach

Principle of subsidiary or (functional) decentralization

Environmental integrity & water management on hydrological boundaries

Precautionary principles

User / polluter pays

Water management on hydrological boundaries

Cost recovery

Public / private partnerships

Institutional sustainability

Basin Organisations

Dublin (1992) principles of IWRM

Principle 1. Fresh water is a finite and vulnerable resource, essential to sustain life,

development and the environment.

Principle 2. Water development and management should be based on a participatory

approach, involving users, planners and policymakers at all levels.

Principle 3. Women play a central part in the provision, management and safeguarding of

water.

Principle 4. Water has an economic value in all its competing uses and should be

recognized as an economic good as well as a social good.

To reach these objectives, there is a need for:

– National integrated water resource management (IWRM) policies, taking into

consideration river basin management.

– Transparent and flexible national laws as a prerequisite for IWRM policy development.

– The participation of all stakeholders at all levels of IRWM, with special attention to

gender and youth.



– The improvement of consultation structures and processes at all levels, especially at the

local level.

– Better co-ordination and institutional strengthening to overcome fragmented

responsibilities in the field of IWRM.

– The provision of additional financing, especially at the community level.

– Increased awareness and communication.

– More involvement of women in water management as important stakeholders, especially

in developing countries.

– The formation of an inter-ministerial committee on gender. The reallocation of budgets in

water projects and representation of women was discussed.

– Looking at models of IRWM, it is necessary to recognize the existing diversity present

between different countries.

3.2 Central Points for Public Participation in Integrated Water Resource Management

―A well-founded need must be demonstrated to attract stakeholders to the process.

Careful advance consideration should be given as to which type of public process is

selected.

Opinion leaders should be consulted for comment and advice on the project and the

process.

The physical environment of the first meeting should be comfortable, convenient and

neutral.

The proponent should make all stakeholders feel welcome with a common sense of

purpose.

The initial meeting should be empowering and constructive.

The proponent should be flexible and open to new ideas.

At all times the developmental stages of the group should be remembered.

Resources must be available for the group to complete its tasks.

3.3 Water Resource Management Tools

Resources Assessment

Integrated Planning and Management

Demand Management

Valuing Water

Water Resources Administration

Conflict Resolution and Management

3.4 Four key areas of water management, namely:

Water Resources Assessments

Assessment and evaluation of aquatic ecosystems

Water Demand Management

Flood risk prevention



A. Water Resources Assessments

A good awareness of the amount of water that is available for exploitation in a region is a crucial

requirement for proper planning and development. This is particularly the case in regions where

resources are scarce and use is high. A water resources assessment can calculate the volume of

water from a region‘s resources that can be exploited for economic and domestic purposes

without compromising the requirements of the natural environment or causing constraints in

water use elsewhere in the catchment.

B. Assessment and evaluation of aquatic ecosystems

Aquatic ecosystems supply various goods and services to a local community. As well as being a

source of water supply, healthy freshwater systems offer facilities for recreation, local industry,

wastewater treatment, and tourism and flood protection. Aquatic ecosystems can, however, be

fragile and vulnerable to human activity in the catchment. Changes to the natural balance can

cause many of the benefits they provide to be lost. A large number of tools exist for assessing,

monitoring and rehabilitating water ecosystems.

C. Water Demand Management

Reducing water demand is a sustainable approach to increasing water availability. Rather than

developing infrastructure to extract more water, demand management reduces consumption thus

balancing water allocation to different sectors and protecting aquatic ecosystem goods and

services.

D. Flood risk prevention

The occurrence of floods can have devastating effects on the local area. These include impacts

such as loss of life and livestock, damage to buildings and infrastructure, and long-term loss of

income due to disruption caused to industries such as agriculture and tourism. Flood risk

prevention measures implemented at the local level can significantly reduce such impacts.

3.5 Why participate in an IWRM process?

Awareness of IWRM is partly the result of the realization that, until the 1990s – and still today in

some countries – infrequent interaction between individual sectoral activities, such as

agricultural irrigation, flood control, hydropower, etc., resulted in sectors having little effective

coordination.

Another failing of such a fragmented approach was the insufficient focus on national sustainable

development as well as IWRM. The first step on the path to integration requires that each sector

has access to all the compiled basin data, updated information, as well as the ability of avoiding

unexpected risks caused by uncoordinated internal and/or external sector activities. Moreover,

the processes inherent in achieving basin sustainability need to be undertaken through a series of

urgent actions, coupled with flexible measures and mutual coordination, along with stakeholder

participation.



Advantages of water resource management:

It allows IWRM actions to be started at any point of the evolutionary process.

It builds capacity over time.

It promotes cooperation and integration.

It promotes the pursuit of better solutions that adapt to changing circumstances and values.

It facilitates consensus building and stakeholder ownership at each ‗turn of the spiral‘.

It illustrates IWRM as an incremental, step by- step process, and therefore provides a

practical framework for looking ahead and planning for successive ‗turns of the spiral‘.

3.6 Challenges of IWRM

Conflicts of interest

Upstream – downstream

Water for food–water for nature – Water for Power

Control of the floods – Recession Agriculture

Economic growth – Industrialization- Fertilization – pollution

Water withdrawal – navigation – Tourism

Rich – poor

Present – future generations

Globalization – regional environmental resources management

Low Level of Awareness

High Level of Expectation

Professional Bias or Resistance

Intrinsic Challenges

Integration of water supply and wastewater

Protecting aquatic habitat and flood management

Conjunctive use of surface and Groundwater

Government and Interest Groups

Geographic Region

Interdisciplinary perspective

Coordination and cooperation

Stakeholder participation Vs Subsidiary

Social and Economic Commodity



3.7 Constituents of water management

Functions of water resources management are very complex tasks and may involve many

different activities conducted by many different players. The following components constitute

water resources management.

Water Allocation

River basin planning

Stakeholder participation

Pollution control

Monitoring

Economic and financial management

Information management

3.8 Key Issues in Water Resources Management

Water resources are under increased pressure from population growth, uncontrolled disposal of

waste, agricultural activities, mining, logging, aquaculture and activities in other economic

sectors. Upstream-downstream issues in terms of decreased water quality occur more and more

frequently and urbanized areas contribute to the degradation. The degraded water quality leads to

health risks as reliable water supply and sewerage infrastructures are lacking and as domestic

water often are taken directly from surface water bodies. The vast and valuable productivity of

the ecosystems of coastal lagoons, estuaries, deltas and mangroves needs to be maintained, not

least because they are a rich source of fish protein. Urban population ‗explosion‘ due to

movement of people from rural to urban centers, the lack of human capacities to manage the

resources, and other factors impede the achievement of the MDGs.

The key issues which are to be addressed to conform to the Integrated Management of Water

Resources are:

Population growth In Urban Areas

Inadequacy of Human Resource Capacities

Uncontrolled disposal of waste

Water activities fragmented amongst ministries and institutions

Level of Development of Water Resources for various activities

International cooperation and Riparian (shared) rivers.



3.9 IWRM Strategies

The IWRM strategies, which have evolved from the overall policy objectives, comprise those

supporting an enabling environment, those guiding institutional development and those

supporting the upgrading of planning, prioritization and management instruments. The main

strategies are as follows:

To ensure proper land resources planning and management

To decentralize economic incentives

To ensure efficient and proper disposal of solid and liquid wastes

To establish appropriate bodies responsible for water resources management

To develop and enhance human resources and national technological capacities

To foster international cooperation in the management of shared river basins

Ensuring the efficient means of Domestic Water supply in Liberia

Integrated and sustainable development and management of water resources for

all sectors to guarantee socio-economic growth

The protection of all water resources ( e.g.: Wetlands)

Sustainable allocation of water resources and but not limited to

Prevention of natural disasters and the effects of Climate Chang

The key strategies leading towards the Enabling Environment are:

Government to assume the role as an enabler in a participatory and demand driven

approach to development and use of the national water resources

Legislation and policy to support national and riparian countries initiatives.

Regulatory controls to be developed in response to needs and at enforceable

levels,

Regulatory controls to be combined with economic incentives,

Earlier coordinating body, the defunct National Water Resources and Sanitation

Board

(NWRSB) shall be revitalized and given new mandates in line with IWRM

principles.

The key strategies guiding the institutional roles are to:

Establish a coordinating mechanism with NWRSB as the lead coordinating body.

Delegate management functions to the lowest appropriate level

Involve the private sector to an appropriate level

Increase rural gender balanced participation in decision making in water resources

management

Develop water resources management capacities and capabilities at all levels

The key strategies with planning, prioritization and management instruments are:



Water demands to be given priority in the following order and shall be based on

economic, social and environmental values of the water determinants :

1. Drinking Water

2. Water for Urban and Rural Sanitation

3. Water for Food security

4. Water for other uses (industries, hydro-power, beautifications, firefighting, etc...)

Holistic and sustainable approaches to be used in water resources management,

development and use.

Environmental impact assessment to be used as a planning tool

The "polluter pays principle‖ to be enforced.

Economic incentives to be applied along with regulatory instruments to avoid

water wastage and minimize pollution

International cooperation to be pursued for shared water resources

Creation of awareness on the protection of wetlands as an integral part of water

resources.

3.10 Management functions

The management of the water resources shall be prioritized as elaborated below:

Assessment and Monitoring

Monitoring and assessment of the amounts of surface- and groundwater and of the inherent water

quality shall be done to detect overall trends and possible effects of climate changes. Likewise,

identified hotspots will be monitored with the purpose of identifying the effects of interventions

and monitoring results shall be used in cooperation with, for instance, industries and others

influencing the water quantity or quality. Bio-monitoring shall be one of the monitoring tools.

The central authority will be responsible for the monitoring, the assessment of the short and

longer term impacts and take initiatives to mitigate negative effects. Monitoring data shall be

disseminated to the relevant agencies and the public shall be given an annual status of the water

resources of Liberia.

Data and Information

Data and information are keys to the rational and optimal management and use of the water

resources. All developers and operators in the water sector shall provide data and information

such as abstraction records, discharge records and drilling logs. The Government shall, through

Liberian Hydrological Service (LHS), collect, analyze, archive and disseminate such information

and data for public use and management of water resources. Data collected by other water sector

institutions shall likewise be made available to all stakeholders.

Capacity building

There is a serious lack of skilled manpower and thus a need for a massive training and capacity

building programs to be implemented at all levels to upgrade the professional, mid-level, and

technician skills. Efficient integrated water resources management now requires skilled and

motivated personnel, well managed operations, maintenance funds and the provision of



appropriate material, tools and spares for operation of monitoring networks. The central agency

shall motivate and facilitate a continued capacity building starting with orientation training at all

levels.

Capacity building will, at the starting point, depend on technical assistance to strengthen the

professional capabilities in the water sector, through formal lectures and on-the-job training. The

goal is that the central agencies become capable of accomplishing the task of reform and

reconstruction of the water sector.

Policy making, planning and coordination

The integrated management of water resources and land-related issues requires policies and plans

to be made both at the national and county levels. At the national level, policies will be

formulated, regulations prepared, national drinking water quality standards set, and project

activities in the sector coordinated.

Based on guidelines from the relevant sector agencies, the counties shall set local priorities, by-

laws and annual action plans regarding the use of water resources in aquaculture, irrigation,

livestock watering and rural and urban domestic water supplies. Major uses like hydropower

generation and other uses with trans-county and or trans-boundary implications shall be dealt

with at the national level but with full participation of all the stakeholders.

When required, catchments shall be used as planning units. Local level groups, within the

framework of national and county policies, shall manage the use of the resources, through local

decision-making bodies such as the Village and Sub- County Committees. The full participation

of the communities shall be promoted and ensured.

Regulations

Water abstraction regulation

Regulations which deal with water allocation through water rights and permits shall be

developed and issued. The regulations shall set out steps relating to permit applications, the

decision criteria for allocation, obligations of the permit holder and the return of excess flow.

Monitoring of abstraction and reporting schedules shall be set out. The regulations shall set out a

suitable duration of the permit and give circumstances under which reviews can be made.

Generic rules for charging for permits or for withdrawal of water shall be part of the regulations,

which are supported by other pieces of the legislation. Compliance and enforcement shall also be

prescribed in the regulation. Allocation is a decision that has to be made at central level

following the regulations, until a point in time where decentralized institutions have the

necessary capacity to make such decision in a rational manner.

Waste discharge regulation

Regulations which deal with waste discharge through permits shall be developed and issued. The

regulations shall set out the steps relating to discharge permit applications, the criteria for

granting of permits, obligations of the permit holder, standards for effluent quality, actions in

case of spills or accidental discharge and handling of non-point pollution. Principles for charges

for wastewater discharge shall be set out and the regulations shall be supported by other pieces of

legislation. Monitoring and recording shall be prescribed as well as compliance and enforcement.



Clearance to undertake water resources management

All institutions accredited and with clearance to undertake development, rehabilitation

emergency and relief activities in the water sector shall attend regular and duly called meetings

of the stakeholders. They shall present their activities report during said meetings. Any

institution failing to attend meetings and to present activities report for a period of three months

will result in the withdrawal of the clearance and accreditation, based on the recommendation of

the stakeholders to the Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy which is the lead agency in the

sector.

Enforcement

Enforcement of standards, regulations and by-laws shall be undertaken by the (NWRSB). The

existing laws such as Public Health Laws, chapter 24 of Title 33 of the revised Public Health

Law and relevant sections of the Environmental Protection and Management Law shall strictly

be enforced.

Conflict prevention and resolution

For the purpose of mediation, the community structures, county authorities and the (NWRSB)

shall be used to settle disputes between individuals and groups pertaining to the use,

conservation and protection of the available water resources. Water disputes at the local and

national levels shall be settled by the (NWRSB) and the county development councils in

collaboration with the water sector stakeholders

4. Water conservation

Water conservation can be defined as:

1. Any beneficial reduction in water loss, use or waste as well as the preservation of water

quality.

2. A reduction in water use accomplished by implementation of water conservation or water

efficiency measures; or,

3. Improved water management practices that reduce or enhance the beneficial use of water.

4.1 Goals of water conservation

Sustainability. To ensure availability for future generations, the withdrawal of fresh water

from an ecosystem should not exceed its natural replacement rate.

Energy conservation. Water pumping, delivery, and wastewater treatment facilities

consume a significant amount of energy. In some regions of the world over 15% of total

electricity consumption is devoted to water management.

Habitat conservation. Minimizing human water use helps to preserve fresh water habitats

for local wildlife and migrating waterfowl, as well as reducing the need to build new

dams and other water diversion infrastructures.

Reduce water consumption per capita.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sustainability

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_conservation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Habitat_conservation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dam



The protection and conservation of water must be considered throughout the life of the building.

Facility owners and developers must seek to:

Use water efficiently through low or ultra-low flow fixtures, elimination of leaks, water

conserving cooling towers, and other actions;

Improve water quality. For example, eliminate lead-bearing products in potable water;

Recover non-sewage and gray water for on-site use (such as toilet flushing and landscape

irrigation)

Establish waste treatment and recycling centers;

Apply the Best Management Practices for Water Conservation;

Follow EPA Technical Guidance on Implementing the Storm water Runoff Requirements

to maintain or restore predevelopment hydrology of the property with regard to the

temperature, rate, volume and duration of flow.

Water conservation programs are typically initiated at the local level, by either municipal water

utilities or regional governments. Common strategies include public outreach campaigns, tiered

water rates (charging progressively higher prices as water use increases), or restrictions on

outdoor water use such as lawn watering and car washing. Cities in dry climates often require or

encourage the installation of xeriscaping or natural landscaping in new homes to reduce outdoor

water usage.

One fundamental conservation goal is universal metering. The prevalence of residential water

metering varies significantly worldwide. In addition to raising consumer awareness of their water

use, metering is also an important way to identify and localize water leakage. Water metering

would benefit society in the long run it is proven that water metering increases the efficiency of

the entire water system, as well as help unnecessary expenses for individuals for years to come.

One would be unable to waste water unless they are willing to pay the extra charges, this way the

water department would be able to monitor water usage by public, domestic and manufacturing

services.

4.2 Household applications

Water-saving technology for the home includes:

Low-flow shower heads sometimes called energy-efficient shower heads as they also use

less energy,

Low-flush toilets and composting toilets. These have a dramatic impact in the developed

world, as conventional Western toilets use large volumes of water.

Dual flush toilets created by Caroma include two buttons or handles to flush different

levels of water. Dual flush toilets use up to 67% less water than conventional toilets.

Saline water (sea water) or rain water can be used for flushing toilets.

Faucet aerators, which break, water flow into fine droplets to maintain "wetting

effectiveness" while using less water. An additional benefit is that they reduce splashing

while washing hands and dishes.

Wastewater reuse or recycling systems, allowing:

o Reuse of gray water for flushing toilets or watering gardens

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/program/waterefficiency_bmp.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xeriscaping

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_landscaping

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_meter

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_meter

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_leakage

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low_flush_toilet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Composting_toilet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toilet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dual_flush_toilet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caroma

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faucet_aerator

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reclaimed_water

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greywater



Recycling of wastewater through purification at a water treatment plant.

Rainwater harvesting

High-efficiency clothes washers

Weather-based irrigation controllers

Garden hose nozzles that shut off water when it is not being used, instead of letting a

hose run.

using low flow taps in wash basins

Swimming pool covers that reduce evaporation and can warm pool water to reduce water,

energy and chemical costs.

Automatic faucet is a water conservation faucet that eliminates water waste at the faucet.

It automates the use of faucets without the use of hands.

A valve which reduces water, gas, time, money and CO2

Use waste water for growth of plants

4.3 Commercial applications

Many water-saving devices (such as low-flush toilets) that are useful in homes can also be useful

for business water saving. Other water-saving technology for businesses includes:

Waterless urinals

Waterless car washes

Infrared or foot-operated taps, which can save water by using short bursts of water for

rinsing in a kitchen or bathroom

Pressurized water brooms, which can be used instead of a hose to clean sidewalks

X-ray film processor re-circulation systems

Cooling tower conductivity controllers

Water-saving steam sterilizers, for use in hospitals and health care facilities.

Rain water harvesting.

4.4 Agricultural applications

For crop irrigation, optimal water efficiency means minimizing losses due to evaporation, runoff

or subsurface drainage while maximizing production. An evaporation pan in combination with

specific crop correction factors can be used to determine how much water is needed to satisfy

plant requirements. Flood irrigation, the oldest and most common type, is often very uneven in

distribution, as parts of a field may receive excess water in order to deliver sufficient quantities

to other parts. Overhead irrigation, using center-pivot or lateral-moving sprinklers, has the

potential for a much more equal and controlled distribution pattern. Drip irrigation is the most

expensive and least-used type, but offers the ability to deliver water to plant roots with minimal

losses. However, drip irrigation is increasingly affordable, especially for the home gardener and

in light of rising water rates. There are also cheap effective methods similar to drip irrigation

such as the use of soaking hoses that can even be submerged in the growing medium to eliminate

evaporation.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_purification

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainwater_harvesting

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washing_machine

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garden_hose

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nozzle

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swimming_pool

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatic_faucet

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterless_car_wash

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiography

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cooling_tower

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evaporation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surface_runoff

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evaporation_pan

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surface_irrigation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irrigation#Overhead_.28sprinkler.29_irrigation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drip_irrigation



As changing irrigation systems can be a costly undertaking, conservation efforts often

concentrate on maximizing the efficiency of the existing system. This may include chiseling

compacted soils, creating furrow dikes to prevent runoff, and using soil moisture and rainfall

sensors to optimize irrigation schedules. Usually large gains in efficiency are possible through

measurement and more effective management of the existing irrigation system.

4.5 Ways to Conserve Water

Water conservation is a good idea all the time, not just during a drought. Here are some tips and

ideas to help you reduce your water usage indoors and outdoors.

4.5.1 Ways to Conserve Water Indoors

We use a lot of water inside of the home, not all of it wisely. For example, leaks can waste 10%

percent of your water supply. A one-drop-per-minute leak can waste over 50 gallons of water a

year. Many of the causes can be easily fixed. If some simple repairs don't correct the problem,

consult a plumber.

A. Water Supply Line

Check for water leaks by checking your water meter. Turn off the water, and note the

measurement on the meter. Check back in 30 minutes, and see if the meter reading has

changed. If so, you have a leak somewhere. A toilet is your first suspect.

B. Toilets

Replace your old toilet with a new low-flush toilet. The older models use 3 to 7 gallons of

water per flush, while the new ones only use 1-1/2 gallons.

Find and repair leaky toilets. If you can see or hear water flowing into the bowl, the tank

is leaking. Check for a silent leak by putting a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If

the coloring shows up in the bowl after 20 minutes, your toilet is leaking. Flappers, floats

or handles cause most leaks.

A water displacement apparatus can be used in older toilets. Fill a plastic bottle with

water, add something to the inside (such as pebbles) for weight and place it in the bottom

of the tank where it won't interfere with the flushing mechanism. Don't use this method in

the newer low-water use models.

Don't throw trash in the toilet bowl.

C. Faucets

Check your kitchen and bath for leaky faucets. Don't forget to check outdoor and

basement faucets. Repair or replace them. Both of these tasks are simple and inexpensive

do-it-yourself projects, whether the faucet is a compression or ceramic-disc-type. Until

you're able to work on them, place a container underneath the drip and collect the water.

Use it to water plants.



Add a low-flow aerator. Make sure you purchase one that fits your faucet. Installation

usually involves screwing it on the spout. Water flow can be reduced by about half with

no noticeable loss of efficiency.

D. Showers and Bathtubs

Shorten your shower time. If you have an older showerhead, five minutes less in the

shower can save you 20 gallons of water.

Buy an attachment that fits behind the showerhead and allows you to stop the water flow

(so you can lather up) without losing water temperature. Showerheads are also available

with this feature built in.

Replace your showerhead with a low-flow, water-saving model. Water usage can be

reduced by up to 5 gallons a minute.

Put a water flow restrictor in your current showerhead. These small additions attach to

the shaft right behind the showerhead.

If you prefer to or need to bathe, do so in 2 to 3 inches of water instead of a full tub.

E. Appliances

Dishwashers and clothes washers should be used only when they have a full load.

Modern dishwashers do a good job without pre-rinsing. But, if you must do some pre-

cleaning, soak the dishes in the sink or a dishpan rather than rinsing them under the

faucet.

If you're forced to wash less than a full load of clothes, set the water level accordingly.

Cut down on your use of the garbage disposal. Keep food wastes, such as fruit and

vegetable peelings, for the compost bin.

F. Other Indoor Tips

Put a bucket in the shower with you to collect water while the temperature regulates. Use

the water for plants.

Turn the water off while you brush your teeth or shave.

If you want a cool drink, keep a pitcher of drinking water in the refrigerator rather than

running the tap.

Wrap your water pipes with insulating tape or foam to conserve hot water.

Steam food instead of boiling. Use water left over from boiling pasta to water plants. (Let

it cool first!)



4.5.2 Ways to Conserve Water Outdoors

Water is more likely to be wasted outdoors than indoors. Be observant and look for these simple

ways to conserve water in the home landscape.

A. Lawns

Grow the proper turf grass for your area, and follow the lawn-care regimen for that

variety.

Reduce turf areas in the lawn.

Keep off of the grass. A lawn already stressed by drought can be further damaged by

excessive foot traffic.

Mow the grass higher than usual to promote good root growth and prevent scorching.

Do a soil test and make the recommended changes. Additional organic matter helps plant

roots retain moisture and grow deeper.

Prevent run-off of water and fertilizer. Dethatch and aerate to increase water absorption

and reduce soil compaction.

Remove weeds that compete for water and nutrients.

B. Irrigation

Use soaker hoses or drip systems to deliver water exactly where it's needed.

Keep in-ground sprinkler systems adjusted and properly maintained.

Add a moisture sensor to your irrigation system to prevent overwatering.

Use hose-end sprinklers that deliver water in droplets instead of a mist that evaporates or

blows away.

Use a rain gauge to monitor any water that falls. Provide additional water only if needed.

Water lawns early in the day when less wind and lower temperatures keep evaporation to

a minimum.

Keep an eye on the garden hose. Make sure the connection is leak-free. Repair or replace

a leaky hose. Don't forget and leave them running.

C. Plants, Trees and Shrubs

Use mulch — about a 4-inch-deep layer is sufficient. If mulch is too deep, water can't

penetrate to the plant's roots.

Plant a shade garden.

Pull weeds; they compete with your ornamental plants for water.

Use native plants. They're well-adapted to the local environment.

Implement xeriscaping principles.

If forced to choose, water shrubs and trees that are more costly and more difficult to

replace than your annuals or perennials.



D. Other Outdoor Tips

Limit car washing or visit a commercial car wash that re-circulates its water.

Use a broom to clean walks and driveways rather than a garden hose.

Water plants with collected rainwater, water from the dehumidifier tank or melted ice

from your cooler.

When choosing a pond or fountain, install water features that recycle water.

Use a cover for your pool or hot tub to reduce evaporation.

Use gray water on ornamental plants.

5. Water Use Efficiency

Water efficiency can be defined as:

1. The accomplishment of a function, task, process, or result with the minimal amount of water

feasible;

2. An indicator of the relationship between the amount of water required for a particular purpose

and the amount of water used or delivered.

Though the two are often used interchangeably, there is a difference between water conservation

and water efficiency. Water efficiency differs from water conservation in that it focuses on

reducing waste. A proposition is that the key for efficiency is reducing waste, not restricting use.

It also emphasizes the influence consumers can have in water efficiency by making small

behavioral changes to reduce water wastage and by choosing more water efficient products.

Examples of water efficient steps includes fixing leaking taps, taking showers rather than baths,

installing displacements devices inside toilet cisterns, and using dishwashers and washing

machines with full loads. These are things that fall under the definition of water efficiency, as

their purpose is to obtain the desired result or level of service with the least necessary water.

5.1 Water efficient solutions

5.1.1 Residential

According to Water wise, here are some simple ways to be more water efficient at

home:

Turning off the tap while brushing teeth- a running tap can waste over six liters per minute. Putting a "hippo" or other displacement device into the toilet cistern.

Fixing dripping taps. A dripping tap wastes thousands of litres of water a year.

Using a full load in the dishwasher and washing machine. A person should be sure to buy a water

efficient model when buying a new machine. Having a short shower instead of a bath.

Washing fruits and vegetables in a bowl rather than under a running tap.

Using the leftover water to feed houseplants. Using a watering can or a hosepipe with a trigger nozzle instead of a sprinkler.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Waterwise_Project



Using a bucket and sponge when washing the car rather than a running hosepipe. Using little amount of water at every time

We should wash our cloths in washing machine rather than washing with hands

5.1.2 Manufacturing

According to save water, these are solutions useful to manufacturers:

Identifying and eliminating wastage (such as leaks) and inefficient processes (such as continual

spray devices on stop-start production lines). This may be the most low cost area for water savings, as it involves minimal capital outlay. Savings can be made through implementing

procedural changes, such as cleaning plant areas with brooms rather than water.

Changing processes and plant machinery. A retrofit of key plant equipment may increase

efficiency. Alternatively, upgrades to more efficient models can be factored in to planned maintenance and replacement schedules.

Reusing wastewater. As well as saving on mains water, this option may improve the reliability of

supply, whilst reducing trade waste charges and associated environmental risks.

5.1.3 Utilities

According to US EPA, here are some ideas for communities and utilities:

Implementing a water-loss management program (e.g. locate and repair leaks). Utilities should strive for universal metering.

Ensuring that fire hydrants are tamper proof.

Equipment changes - Setting a good example by using water efficient equipment. Installing faucet aerators and low flow shower heads in municipal buildings.

Replace worn out plumbing fixtures, appliances and equipment with water-saving models.

Minimizing the water used in space cooling equipment in accordance with manufacturer's

recommendations. Shut off cooling units when not needed.

5.2 Steps for a successful water efficiency program

1. Establish commitment and goals

2. Line up support and resources

3. Conduct a water audit

4. Identify water management options

5. Prepare a plan and implementation schedule

6. Track results and publicize success



6 Water Recycling

Water recycling is reusing treated wastewater for beneficial purposes such as agricultural and

landscape irrigation, industrial processes, toilet flushing, and replenishing a ground water basin

(referred to as ground water recharge). Water recycling offers resource and financial savings.

Wastewater treatment can be tailored to meet the water quality requirements of a planned reuse.

Recycled water for landscape irrigation requires less treatment than recycled water for drinking

water. No documented cases of human health problems due to contact with recycled water that

has been treated to standards, criteria, and regulations have been reported.

6.1 Uses for Recycled Water

Recycled water is most commonly used for non-potable (not for drinking) purposes, such as:

agriculture

landscape

public parks

golf course irrigation

cooling water for power plants and oil refineries

industrial process such as processing water for mills, plants

toilet flushing

dust control,

construction activities

concrete mixing

artificial lakes

energy saving

Reduces the energy required to pump the water to the surface.

Reduces the energy needed to move water longer distances or pump water from deep

within an aquifer.

Reduces the energy needed to treat water for uses that require lower quality.

Environmental Benefits

providing an additional source of water

to decrease the diversion of water from sensitive ecosystems

decreasing wastewater discharges

reducing and preventing pollution

used to create or enhance wetlands and riparian habitats



7 References

1. http://www.pacificwater.org/userfiles/file/IWRM/

2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_conservation#cite_note-Vickers.2C_Amy_2002-0

3. http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/program/waterefficiency_bmp.html

4. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wastewater#Reuse

5. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_efficiency

6. (World Water Council, 2000, p. 2-3.)

http://www.pacificwater.org/userfiles/file/IWRM/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_conservation#cite_note-Vickers.2C_Amy_2002-0

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/program/waterefficiency_bmp.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wastewater#Reuse

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_efficiency

Water Resources Management Guideline

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