| Annual Stormwater Awareness Campaign Encourages Residents to Help Keep Our Waterways Clean Year-round from Stormwater Pollution | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3328 | Water Services | | 1/16/2025 5:40:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3328/Stormwater 2025 Newsroom v2.png | | Annual Stormwater Awareness Campaign Encourages Residents to Help Keep Our Waterways Clean Year-round from Stormwater Pollution | <div class="ExternalClass25ABA5293D0D442FBD8C72C7DF13948C"><html>
<p>The Water Services Dept. Environmental & Safety Division invites you to learn about the City of Phoenix Stormwater Management Program during the <strong>Annual Stormwater Awareness Week on Jan. 20-26, 2025.</strong> Stormwater Awareness Week is an annual regional effort to teach simple everyday actions to reduce stormwater pollution.<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"> </span></p>
<p></p>
<p>
<strong>
<em>What is Stormwater Pollution?</em>
</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>In Phoenix, stormwater is rainwater that flows over roads and through gutters and does not soak into the ground. This stormwater enters our storm drainpipes, which carry the water to protected surface waters like the Salt River or Skunk Creek. Unlike water we use to flush our toilets, stormwater does not go to a treatment plant. It flows from the storm drains untreated right into rivers and washes. <br></p>
<p>As stormwater flows across areas like roads and parking lots and into our storm drains, it can pick up pollutants like oil and pet waste and carry them into our washes and rivers. This creates significant water quality challenges. Because pollutants can enter surface waters through our storm drain system, the city is required to have a Clean Water Act MS4 permit from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to operate that system. <br></p>
<p>
<strong>
<em>What the City does to prevent Stormwater Pollution?</em>
</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>Several Phoenix departments work together to support the MS4 permit through the Stormwater Management Program including Phoenix Water Services, Office of Planning and Development, Office of Environmental Programs, and the Street Transportation Dept. <br></p>
<p>In 2024, the program added storm drain management tools and a database to help manage this complex permit, which uses infrastructure of 760 outfalls where rain flows, 80 of which are located along the Salt River. Additionally, a new stormwater post-construction program required by the permit allows owner-led inspections to minimize staffing costs. </p>
<p>"Stormwater Awareness Week encourages our community members to take everyday actions to help protect the quality of our water,” said Berai Kimball, Deputy Water Services Director. “With our separate systems for stormwater and wastewater, it’s important to remember that stormwater doesn’t get treated and flows directly to nearby washes and retention basins, infiltrating the soil, making it imperative that we work daily to keep our water system clean.”</p>
<p>
<em>
<strong>How can residents participate in Stormwater Awareness Week?</strong>
</em>
<br>
</p>
<p>Since the campaign's initial launch in 2019, more Valley municipalities and government agencies have participated in the weeklong event. We are encouraging the public to get involved by taking steps to reduce stormwater pollution by learning more at our <a href="https://cityofphoenix.webex.com/weblink/register/rf4432881ec344b42e9dd7b602165d251" target="_blank"><strong>Virtual Workshop</strong></a> which is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 22, at noon to discuss the City’s Stormwater Management Program and our activities to reduce stormwater pollution. Attendees are required to <a href="https://cityofphoenix.webex.com/weblink/register/rf4432881ec344b42e9dd7b602165d251" target="_blank"><strong>Register</strong></a> in advance to participate.<br></p>
<p>Simple actions to reduce stormwater pollution include: <br></p>
<ul style="" class="" dir="">
<li><p>Properly disposing of trash, recyclables, and chemicals like detergent, paint, medications, etc.</p></li><li><p><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">Recycling motor oil and maintaining your vehicle to prevent leak
s</span></p></li>
<li><p>
Cleaning up after your pet
</p></li>
<li><p>
Using lawn chemicals sparingly and always following manufacturers’ directions
</p></li>
<li><p>
Properly disposing of lefto
ver paint and household chemicals at a household hazardous waste event <br>
</p></li>
<li><p>
And please remember - only rain in the storm drain
</p></li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p>
To learn more about the City of Phoenix Water Services Department Stormwater Awareness Week and what you can do as an individual or business to prevent stormwater pollution, please visit <a href="/waterservices/envservices/stormwater-program" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/stormwater.</a>
</p>
<p></p>
<p>Media Contact:<br></p>
<p>
<strong>Jimena Garrison</strong>
</p>
<p>Senior Public Information Officer <br></p>
<p>Water Services<br></p>
<p>Cell: 480-390-1933 (call or text) </p>
<p>E-mail: <a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"><strong>jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</strong></a></p>
<p>
<strong>Angela Serda</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>Public Information Specialist<br></p>
<p>Water Services</p>
<p>Cell: 623-499-8919 (call or text) </p>
<p>E-mail: <a href="mailto:angela.serda@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"><strong>angela.serda@phoenix.gov</strong></a><br></p>
<p>
<br>
</p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices | News | water-services |
| Phoenix Water Services Department Ensures Compliance with EPA's Lead and Copper Rule | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3269 | Water Services | | 11/6/2024 3:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3269/NEWSROOM_Lead Copper Rule Revisions.png | | Phoenix Water Services Department Ensures Compliance with EPA's Lead and Copper Rule | <div class="ExternalClass53187A4F0837413B890587D25AF542D6"><html>
<p>The Phoenix Water Services Department is committed to safeguarding the health of its residents by complying with the <a href="https://pipes.phoenix.gov/" target="_blank"><strong>Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) updated Lead and Copper Rule (LCR)</strong></a><strong>.</strong> The City is working diligently to identify and mitigate any potential sources of lead in its water infrastructure, ensuring that residents continue to have access to safe and clean drinking water.<br></p>
<p>As part of the<a href="https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-rule" target="_blank"> <strong>Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)</strong></a><strong>,</strong> the City of Phoenix is required to inventory all water service lines, focusing on those installed before 1988, when lead pipe use was prohibited. The inventory will assess and categorize water service lines, including identifying those made from lead or galvanized material requiring replacement (GRR). The City submitted this comprehensive inventory of over 480,000 waterline services to the <a href="https://azdeq.gov/LeadCopperRule" target="_blank"><strong>Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)</strong></a> by October 16, 2024, as per federal requirements.<br></p>
<p>
<strong>Key Components of Phoenix Water's LCR Compliance:</strong>
</p>
<ol style="" class="" dir="">
<li>
<strong>Proactive Field Investigations: </strong>Since 2021, Phoenix Water has conducted over 250,000 field investigations and found no evidence of lead service lines. The City remains committed to confirming the status of any service lines listed as "unknown" and ensuring the safety of its water distribution system.<br><br></li>
<li>
<strong>Service Line Inventory Submission:</strong> Phoenix Water submitted a complete inventory of all service lines to ADEQ in October 2024. This inventory is a critical step in the City's ongoing efforts to comply with the updated EPA requirements.<br><br></li>
<li>
<strong>Notification to Residents: </strong>Starting in late 2024, Phoenix residents with GRR service lines, as well as those with service lines classified as "unknown," will receive direct notifications by mail. <strong>No existing lead service lines have been found in the City of Phoenix, but notification will be provided if any are identified.</strong> The City will also launch an online resource at pipes.phoenix.gov, where residents can access information about their service line material and stay updated on the City's lead service line replacement efforts.<br><br></li>
<li>
<strong>Health Education and Support:</strong> The City is dedicated to educating the public on the health risks associated with lead in drinking water. All communication will include information on health effects, steps to reduce exposure, and opportunities for service line replacement.</li>
</ol>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>
<strong>Looking Ahead:</strong> Phoenix Water will begin replacing any service lines identified as GRR or lead through a planned replacement program starting in 2025. The City will collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to secure funding for this effort, leveraging grants from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support this initiative.<br></p>
<p>"As a city, we've been proactive in maintaining the highest standards for water quality. While we have found no lead service lines so far, our commitment to safety and transparency remains strong," said Troy Hayes, Director of Phoenix Water Services. "We will continue to prioritize the health of our residents as we comply with the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule."<br></p>
<p>For more information on Phoenix Water's compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule and the upcoming service line replacement program, visit <a href="https://pipes.phoenix.gov/" target="_blank"><strong>pipes.phoenix.gov.</strong></a><br></p>
<p>
<strong>RELATED LINKS:</strong>
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-rule" target="_blank">
<strong>https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-rule</strong>
</a>
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://azdeq.gov/LeadCopperRule" target="_blank">
<strong>https://azdeq.gov/LeadCopperRule</strong>
</a>
<br>
</p>
<p>
<strong>Media Contacts:</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>Michael Gertzman<br></p>
<p>Sr. Public Information Officer <br></p>
<p>Water Services<br></p>
<p>602-534-1209</p>
<p>
<a href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">
<strong>michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov</strong>
</a>
<br>
</p>
<p>Jimena Garrison</p>
<p>Public Information Officer</p>
<p>Water Services<br></p>
<p>480-390-1933<br></p>
<p>
<a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">
<strong>jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</strong>
</a>
<br>
</p>
<p>
<strong>About Phoenix Water Services:</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>Phoenix Water Services provides high-quality, reliable water to the City of Phoenix, serving over 1.7 million residents. The department is committed to maintaining water quality, promoting sustainability, and ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.<br></p>
<p>
<br>
</p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices | News | water-services |
| Phoenix Introduces New Residential Grass Removal Incentive to Promote Water Conservation | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3259 | Water Services | | 10/30/2024 4:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3259/Newsroom_Grass-Incentives2.png | | Phoenix Introduces New Residential Grass Removal Incentive to Promote Water Conservation | <div class="ExternalClass969193966D7C4D38B6C4FBA2520FF25B"><html>
<p></p>
<p>Phoenix Water Services has launched a new program offering financial assistance to homeowners who replace their lawns with water-efficient, desert-adapted landscapes. The initiative encourages residents to reduce outdoor water use by receiving $2 per square foot for removing grass. This effort not only conserves water but could also help residents save money on their water bills. It’s part of the City's broader commitment to sustainable urban living in a desert climate.<br></p>
<p>The <a href="/waterservices/residential-grass-incentives" target="_blank"><strong>Residential Grass Removal Program</strong></a> is open to Phoenix Water Services customers who own their homes and meet the eligibility requirements. Homeowners must remove at least 250 square feet of living grass to be eligible for the financial incentive. The program also provides access to educational resources and workshops to help participants design water-wise landscapes. By choosing drought-tolerant plants, homeowners can significantly reduce their outdoor water consumption and cut back on yard maintenance.<br></p>
<p>
<strong>Key Highlights of the Incentive Program:</strong>
<br>
</p>
<ul style="" class="" dir="">
<li>Receive $2 per square foot for removing at least 250 square feet of grass.</li>
<li>Grass must be alive and healthy at a minimum of 75% density of the area to be removed.</li>
<li>Access to educational workshops for landscape design assistance.</li>
<li>Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.</li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>"Converting traditional grass lawns to desert landscaping is one of the most effective ways to conserve water in Phoenix," said Cynthia Campbell, Water Resources Management Advisor. "This program allows homeowners to enhance the beauty of their yards while reducing water usage and contributing to the City's conservation goals. It's a win-win for both residents and the environment."<br></p>
<p>
<strong>Additional Residential Water Conservation Incentives</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>In addition to the grass removal incentive, Phoenix Water Services offers up to $75 for the installation of <a href="/waterservices/toilet-and-irrigationcontroller-incentives" target="_blank"><strong>WaterSense-labeled high-efficiency toilets and smart irrigation controllers</strong></a><strong>.</strong> These products help conserve water by optimizing water use indoors and in landscape irrigation systems. Homeowners can combine these offerings to maximize water savings and reduce their overall utility bills.<br></p>
<p>
<strong>Non-Residential Grass Removal Program</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>The City also provides an incentive for <a href="/waterservices/nonresidentialincentives" target="_blank"><strong>non-residential customers</strong></a>, including businesses, schools, and homeowner's associations (HOAs). This program offers $2 per square foot for the removal of non-functional grass, encouraging commercial properties to switch to desert-adapted landscapes and contribute to citywide water conservation efforts.<br></p>
<p>For more information about water conservation, visit <a href="/waterservices/savewater" target="_blank"><strong>phoenix.gov/savewater.</strong></a><br></p>
<p>
<strong>Media Contacts:</strong>
<br>
</p>
<p>Michael Gertzman</p>
<p>Sr. Public Information Officer <br></p>
<p>Water Services</p>
<p>602-534-1209<br></p>
<p>
<a href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">
<strong>michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov</strong>
</a>
<br>
</p>
<p>Jimena Garrison</p>
<p>Public Information Officer</p>
<p>Water Services</p>
<p>480-390-1933<br></p>
<p>
<a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">
<strong>jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</strong>
</a>
<br>
</p>
<p></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices | News | water-services |
