With the implementation of advanced automatic metering infrastructure (AMI) and data collector gateways, Carmel Utilities now has the capability to collect and analyze hourly water usage data across the entire city. This enhanced technology enables staff to more accurately identify potential system leaks and gain valuable insights into consumption patterns during both irrigation and non-irrigation seasons.
This strategy will allow Carmel to benchmark its current water usage and determine areas of improvement. The establishment of key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics will help the city measure progress in meeting its established goals. This strategy was added by the Climate Action Advisory Committee as it goes along with Strategy G-3 as it will help show progress of G-3.
Per direction from the Climate Action Advisory Committee, Carmel Utilities will gather data for water usage and specifically irrigation for City properties from June, July, and August.
With the implementation of advanced automatic metering infrastructure (AMI) and data collector gateways, Carmel Utilities now has the capability to collect and analyze hourly water usage data across the entire city. This enhanced technology enables staff to more accurately identify potential system leaks and gain valuable insights into consumption patterns during both irrigation and non-irrigation seasons.
Our current analysis focuses on water usage trends among residential and commercial properties, City-owned facilities, Carmel Clay Schools, and HOA-managed irrigation meters. The primary objective is to identify areas where conservation initiatives will be most impactful and where opportunities exist to reduce unnecessary water use.
As we further analyze the data, Carmel Utilities will take the following steps to support the development of a public engagement and awareness strategy focused on encouraging the efficient and sustainable use of our community’s water resources:
In partnership with Purdue University’s Turf Science Program (Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture), we will administer a survey to better understand residents’ lawn care practices and the factors that influence their irrigation decisions.
We will determine which irrigation service companies are most commonly used by Carmel residents to gain insight into prevailing system types and maintenance practices.
Conversations with irrigation service technicians will help us assess:
Based on these findings, we will create a public outreach campaign aimed at reducing excessive irrigation and encouraging responsible water use throughout the community.
In parallel, Carmel Utilities will implement targeted educational and outreach efforts in areas where conservation measures are expected to have the greatest benefit.