Background
The City of Thunder Bay and EcoSuperior Environmental Programs, a non-governmental organization, have been working together since 1996 to deliver a comprehensive water conservation and education initiative, the Residential Water Management Program.
The program is intended to raise awareness and give the public an appreciation for Lake Superior, the source of the municipal water supply.
Taking action
The program promotes the wise use of water through outreach, education and social marketing strategies:
- Toilet rebates for switching to lower flow toilets, rain barrel sales, and distribution of water-saving products such as low-flow shower heads, faucet kits and shower timers
- A demonstration garden requiring minimal water input and including educational signage
- Speakers series and school presentations on water awareness and conservation
- “Back to the Tap” campaign promoting the use of municipal drinking water and to discourage bottled water. This included “Water Bars”, mobile water supply units that are taken to events where the public can refill water bottles and learn more about the benefits of tap water
Achieving results
- The Toilet Rebate Program conserved 7,200 cubic metres of potable water
- 1,246 rain barrels were sold, which equates to 62,300 cubic meters of water diverted from the sewage system
- 26 volunteer gardeners worked on the demonstration garden, and 30 home visits encouraged residents to consider gardening options that use less water and reduce run-off
The Residential Water Management Program is the result of a long-standing partnership between a municipality and a non-governmental organization. Thanks to this program, communities along the north shore of Lake Superior have recognized the benefits of working with EcoSuperior Environmental Programs. Several have joined efforts with the organization, leading to greater awareness and long-term benefits for Lake Superior.
