CAPE CORAL, Fla — The city of Cape Coral is growing quickly, and that growing city depends on an ever-increasing demand for irrigation water.
It's a vital need, and the current supply is at a premium. That will be the primary focus of Wednesday's city council meeting, which begins at 9 a.m.
As much as 50% of the water used for irrigation is wasted because of evaporation or wind.
City officials say that with some of these new plans they have, Cape Coral should save around 178 million gallons of water a year.
An ordinance up for discussion Wednesday will offer perks for homeowners who install smart sprinklers. Using moisture sensors, these devices control when they activate.
A $500 rebate would be offered to those who install the eco-friendly sprinklers. Those properties will also be allowed to bypass current restrictions that only permit twice-weekly waterings.
In addition to saving precious water, council's proposed ordinances will help improve water quality.
Chemical injection systems will now have to comply with the city's fertilizer ordinance. Such chemicals are known to runoff during rainstorms and enter water systems, spawning toxic algae blooms.
