1. Managing Rate Impacts
of Conservation
June 13, 2014
Drema Gross
Water Conservation Division Manager
Austin Water
2. • Started in early 1980s, continued through 1990s
– Education, incentives
• Increased attention to conservation in mid-2000s
– Code requirements, watering restrictions
• Prepaid water supply up to 201,000 acre-feet
– Current use between 140,000 and 167,000
– Estimated ~$15M/yr payment when trigger reached
• Growing population, high drought risk
Austin’s Conservation History