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A Comprehensive Planning and Local Water Supply Planning Webinar was hosted by the Met <br /> Council on July 21, 2016. The webinar focused on water resources planning requirements of <br /> local comprehensive plans. CHES provided a videoconference site for local agencies. Following <br /> the webinar, the nine community members discussed options around coordination of local <br /> water supply plans that may enhance local programs to protect and sustain local resources. <br /> Community public water suppliers have a primary interest in protecting local water resources <br /> and maintaining a sustainable supply. Increased planning and implementation requirements <br /> present an opportunity for communities to collaborate in developing their plans in a <br /> coordinated manner, supporting local water protection and sustainability goals. <br /> Examples of additional collaboration in 2015-2016 related to water planning and sustainability <br /> include: <br /> Smart Irrigation Forum (July 16, 2015) <br /> Through a workgroup, the Water Task Force developed a forum/program to deliver <br /> information and encourage participation in using smart irrigation (water efficient) practices <br /> to maintain a sustainable, healthy lawn. By understanding how grass plants use water and their <br /> ability to tolerate dry conditions participants learned how to maintain turf and efficiently use <br /> water. Local irrigation professionals and the U of M Extension Service collaborated with the <br /> Water Task Force and community environmental and public works staff in this forum held at <br /> Bunker Hills Activity Center. <br /> Enhanced Smart Irrigation and Water Conservation <br /> In 2003, Minnesota passed a law (MN. Stat. 103G.298) requiring that all automatically operated <br /> irrigation systems include technology that "inhibits or interrupts operation of the landscape <br /> irrigation system during periods of sufficient moisture." A "Smart Irrigation" system improves <br /> water conservation and efficient use as it permits residents and property owners to maintain an <br /> attractive green landscape. <br /> Minnesota Law requires the installation of smart irrigation controllers. Many homes and <br /> businesses do not have or utilize this water-conserving technology. The City of Coon Rapids <br /> launched a pilot program in the Spring of 2016 to install lawn irrigation sensors to help reduce <br /> water consumption and demonstrate how efficient smart irrigation can maintain lawns while <br /> conserving water. Other communities are considering options to conserve local water resources <br /> by encouraging residents to efficiently use irrigation water by smart technology that is properly <br /> programmed. There are opportunities for communities to collaborate in addressing the <br /> efficient use of landscape irrigation that results in conserving water and maintaining sustainable <br /> local water resources. <br /> Page 2 of 5 <br />