Special Event: Learn how to save water and still keep your garden green
On Saturday, July 9, Ironhouse Sanitary District is offering a free special event where residents can stop by and learn how to conserve water during the drought and still have a green lawn, a fresh vegetable garden, and beautiful flowers throughout their yard. Visitors can come out anytime between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. to get more information. Those who sign up for recycled water will be invited to stay for a free taco lunch.
Did you know the average homeowner uses 160 gallons of water per day to water their front and backyard, according to a recent EPA study? That’s 1,120 gallons per week and 4,800 gallons per month of water that could be used for drinking.
Ironhouse Sanitary District understands how important a green lawn, a fresh vegetable garden, and shade trees are to some proud homeowners. The District also understands how important it is to conserve as much water as possible during this latest drought. That’s why they have set up a system where Oakley and Bethel Island residents can pick up as much FREE recycled water as they need to keep their gardens growing during the drought. Ironhouse also offers recycled water to outside District residents for a nominal annual fee.
For those who haven’t taken advantage of using recycled water for irrigation, it doesn’t take much to get started. ISD’s recycled water is safe for nearly all outside watering needs, including vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and even washing driveways and cars.
Many believe a 300-gallon tank and a pickup truck are necessary to bring recycled water home. However, many different containers can be used. Some residents have gone as far as bringing gallon containers, covered five-gallon buckets, and even 30-gallon drums—all of which can be purchased at local hardware stores and fit easily in a car or SUV.
ISD allows users to bring home anywhere from one gallon to 300 gallons of recycled water each trip to their Recycled Water Fill Station site in Oakley and make as many trips as they’d like during Fill Station open hours.
New sign-ups are available anytime, but this weekend is a chance to answer any questions without signing up for service. Those who wish to get started right away are welcome to bring containers and immediately begin taking water home after a required short training session on how to use recycled water. Those interested but unable to make the Saturday event can call 925-625-2279 or email isdoutreach@isd.us.com to make an appointment. Proof of current residential address is required.
Recycled water should never be used to drink or prepare food. It can water your trees, gardens, lawns, wash cars, paths, and other watering needs. All plants can be watered with recycled water. This includes edible plants such as fruit trees, vegetables, and herbs. However, all fruits, vegetables, and herbs should be washed with potable water before eating.