Lombard scores high in water conservation

The Village of Lombard came out as the most progressive community when it comes to water conservation, according to a DuPage Water Commission report summarizing survey results on the topic.

Lombard scored in 9 of the 13 categories surveyed regarding water conservation programs and services, the highest of all the participating communities surveyed.

Twenty-four of the 28 DuPage Water Commission customers responded to the survey. According to the responses, all of the respondents have designated a conservation coordinator who is responsible for managing the municipal conservation efforts. Lombard's conservation coordinator is Angela Podesta, Utilities Superintendent for the Village's Public Works Department.

“Residents may request an inspection by a Public Works employee to assist in identifying water leaks that may have caused a high water bill,” Podesta advised. “The village is currently replacing water meters in multi-family dwellings with new, more accurate meters and is installing a radio read system that will enable customer service to be alerted to leaks on a daily basis,” she added.

The village also conducts an annual leak detection survey that inspects one-third of the water mains per year, according to Podesta. Any leaks that are found are then promptly repaired by Public Works crews.

The survey, conducted in 2009, was administered as part of the Preserving Every Drop water conservation program, launched by the DuPage Water Commission to provide all DuPage County water users with a consistent message about water conservation. Its aim is also to provide all DuPage Water Commission customers with the tools needed to be good conservation stewards.

Highlights of the survey include the fact that communities survey water customers, perform system water audits, leak detection and repairs, and have public information and school education programs. The Village of Lombard is committed to its conservation efforts, according to Podesta.

One of the fundamental strategies in both the DuPage Water Commission as well as the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning efforts is the education of the public and youth on water conservation. The Village of Lombard offers materials regarding water conservation as well as tours of facilities by request.

Lombard's education efforts include a rain barrel grant program that reimburses residents up to $40/barrel for a rain barrel. Many educational pamphlets and booklets are also available by request.

Anyone interested in water conservation information may contact the Lombard Public Works Department or check on the Village's website at www.villageoflombard.org.