TRIBUTARY AWARDS
Each July, the committee recognizes organizations and community leaders that have made water conservation efforts that have lead to successful water savings. These organizations are recognized as Western Slope Water Conservation Leaders and their small efforts are contributing to a bigger cause - water conservation.
DOS HOMBRES
In 2014, Dos Hombres participated in a commercial audit through DRIP. They implemented water-conservation practices for the past four years and are still seeing the results! Customers are only served water upon request to avoid waste. The restaurant is also working closely with Clifton Water District with E-Coder technology to isolate and identify specific usage for each piece of equipment in their kitchen.
GRAND VALLEY POWER
In 2011, Grand Valley Power made a commitment to become a cost-saving "smart" organization by designing their current office. Not only is GVP taking strides to conserve water, they are also implementing practices that saves energy, water, resources, generates less waste, and supports human health, which qualifies them for the Silver LEED Certification. During the 2018 drought, GVP reduced their water usage by 50% under Voluntary Water Restrictions.
GRAND JUNCTION REGIONAL AIRPORT
In 2008 after redesigning the grounds at the airport, a Rainbird automated irrigation system was installed to ensure accuracy and regulate water usage. In 2014, a change in staff brought new and different ideas to reduce water consumption and maintenance, which included implementing Xeriscape on the east side of the airport.
CSU EXTENSION TRI RIVER AREA
The Tri River Extension is comprised of four counties; Delta, Mesa, Montrose, and Ouray and encompasses three major rivers; Uncompahgre, Gunnison, and the Colorado. There are 160,000 acres of irrigated land in the Tri River area. CSU Extension helps individuals in these areas determine the issues, concerns, and needs that are unique to Mesa County. They focus on agriculture, horticulture, range, forestry, and water.
2018
The Mediterranean-themed lavender and vegetable farm practices water efficiency by utilizing a closed looped aquaponics system that provides water to an underground greenhouse.
Do you know an organization that is making strides in conserving water either indoors, outdoors, or both? We'd like to recognize them as a 2019 Tributary recipient!