LV programs save water

by Bailey Porter
Managing Editor

Two programs to conserve water are underway in the city of La Verne.

Since its implementation on April 1, 2002, one program provides incentive for residents to purchase high efficiency clothes washers.

The program’s sponsor, Three Valleys Municipal Water District, offers a $100 rebate to residents who invest in these washing machines.

The second program is a toilet exchange program run by La Verne’s department of public works.

The city purchases high quality, low flow toilets and on March 20, residents can exchange less environmentally friendly models for up to two low flow toilets.

“Our water resources in Southern California are limited and installing low flow toilets is the easiest way to conserve water,” said Jeannette Vagnozzi, spokeswoman for La Verne public works.

The city’s programs have struck a cord with many conservation-minded citizens.

According to TVMWD spokeswoman Cindy Dechaine, La Verne has been participating enthusiastically in the clothes washer rebate, proving that the small town recognizes water shortages as an environmental issue that must be addressed.

Dechaine said that La Verne residents make up 13.2 percent of residents who participate, out of the 500,000 people served by Three Valleys and eligible for the washer rebate.

The district stretches from east Los Angeles County to Orange County.

That is 97 of the 735 rebates that have been awarded through TVMWD, a favorable number relative to the population size, she said.

“If people are already out shopping for a washing machine, why not get an efficient one and get the rebate,” she said.

This program promotes the purchasing of washing machines that save an estimated 8,000 gallons of water each year for a family size of approximately 3.8, Dechaine said.

Additionally, with the toilet exchange program, a single household saves 47 gallons of water daily by simply installing low flow toilets, Vagnozzi said.

Furthermore, the toilets turned in by residents are recycled and used for road-based materials, she said.

And the 500 toilets public works will distribute this year will save nine million gallons of water collectively each year.

“The savings continue to grow,” she said.

“I think it’s vitally important to be active participants,” said La Verne Mayor Jon Blickenstaff.

“The amount of water saved is incredible,” he said.