Smart Irrigation Technology Study Utilities Department June 30,

Presentation Overview  Study Background  Study Objectives  Results  Next Steps 2

Presentation Overview  Study Background  Study Objectives  Results  Next Steps 3

Study Background  Approved by BCC August 25, 2009 – Create partnerships – Further sound science – University of Florida – Residential and commercial – Consider varying soil types (sandy and flatwoods) 4

Study Background  Largest portion of water used by residential customers is for irrigation – more than 50% 5

Study Background  The average in-ground irrigation system is operating at 40-45% efficiency  “Set-it and forget-it” mentality  Studies show significant reduction in water use with smart technology 6

Presentation Overview  Study Background  Study Objectives  Results  Next Steps 7

Study Objectives  Water use efficiency improvements  Ease of use  Cost of operation  Maintenance issues  Performance variations: – Soil type Sandy and flatwoods – Smart technologies Soil moisture sensors and ET Controllers 8

Presentation Overview  Study Background  Study Objectives  Results  Next Steps 9

Results  Water savings were achieved with both SMS and ET controllers in both soil types  Education impacts the amount of water saved – 6% to 28%  Study participants had a high satisfaction rate – 55% to 85% 10

Presentation Overview  Study Background  Study Objectives  Results  Next Steps 11

Next Steps  Continue to follow participants and access device longevity  Work with Water Management Districts to revise regulations  Revise Orange County ordinances as appropriate to allow for Smart Technology usage 12

Smart Irrigation Technology Study Utilities Department June 30,