Download - Water Conservation at the Port of San Diego
Michelle WhiteGreen Port Program Manager
Water Conservation at the Port of San Diego
Background of the Port
The Port’s Mission
• To balance regional Economic Benefits, Recreational Opportunities, Environmental Stewardship and Public Safety while protecting Tidelands Trust resources on behalf of the citizens of California.
Green Port Program
Water
• Improve water quality in San Diego Bay. Reduce the Port’s water usage to preserve San Diego’s water supply.
Water Conservation Background
• Three water agencies serve Tidelands:– Sweetwater Authority – 17%– California American Water Co. – 11%– City of San Diego – 72%
• The Port currently is in compliance with all Level 2 mandates from the City of San Diego
Current Voluntary Conservation Efforts
• Installed Smart Irrigation Systems in 5 major parks
• Replacing high- water use shrubs with water-wise plants or bark mulch where feasible
Current Voluntary Conservation Efforts
• Retrofitting buildings with ultra low-flow toilets
• Retrofitting all park restrooms with low-flow flush kits
What is the new “business-as-usual”?
• Requires a balance of:– Environmental stewardship– Parks– Tourism– Recreational opportunities– Community service
FY 07/08 TotalTotal Water Use: 213,060,694 Gallons (284,841 HCF)
*1 HCF = 748 Gallons
11%
25%
4%10%
50%
BuildingsShip UseComfort StationsMulti Use MetersIrrigation
Water Use Baseline FY 07/08
Potential Options for Reducing Water Use
• Irrigation– Reduce water use– Water-wise landscaping
• Buildings and Comfort Stations – Additional retrofits– Education
• Ship Use– Reduce water use– Education
• Multi Use Meters– Limited use or fee for use
Other options?
• Gray Water Recycling Systems– California Plumbing Code currently restricts
commercial buildings from installing gray water recycling systems.
– The Port is weighing in on proposed legislative changes to change this Code.
• Reclaimed Water– Infrastructure is not available on Port
tidelands.
Next Steps
• Stay informed of mandates from water agencies serving tidelands
• Determine best options for further conservation efforts
• Explore opportunities for working with our tenants
• Explore grant opportunities