AUSTIN – Austin Water officials announced today that water use per capita in 2019 has dropped to the lowest point since records have been kept. Water use for 2019 is measured to be 120 gallons per capita per day. This new milestone follows a steady decline in water use per capita that began in 2011. Also, Austin’s total water use has dropped even as population has increased.

Austin Water officials have worked with customers to achieve significant water savings through a comprehensive suite of water conservation programs and measures including: once a week watering schedule for automatic irrigation systems, a conservation oriented tiered water rate structure, reclaimed water reuse, water loss control,  conservation incentive programs across all customer sectors, public education and outreach, water waste enforcement, and water efficiency ordinances for plumbing fixtures and equipment. These measures and programs have been developed with input from customers, citizen task forces, advisory groups and the Austin City Council.

“This is the result of a true partnership between Austin Water and the citizens of Austin.”” said Daryl Slusher, Austin Water Assistant Director of Environmental Affairs and Conservation. “Most folks here understand the importance of preserving and protecting our water supply.”

Continuing to reduce our water use per capita now and into the future is an important goal within the Water Forward Plan - Austin’s 100 Year Integrated Water Resources Plan. “I think people also understand that the likelihood of climate change bringing more severe droughts, combined with population growth, means we cannot let up on these efforts,” continued Slusher.

“First I want to thank our customers for all of your efforts to embrace a conservation mindset and put those beliefs into action in your homes and businesses. Your efforts are setting our city apart and helping preserve one of our most precious resources – our Highland Lakes water supply,” said Greg Meszaros, Austin Water Director.

“In addition, I want to recognize the tremendous contributions of Daryl Slusher, who has been at the forefront of these issues, working with staff and community stakeholders to build this collective effort. The legacy of his leadership will benefit our community for years to come.”

About Austin Water

Austin Water provides safe, reliable, high quality, sustainable and affordable water services that have met the community’s needs for over 100 years. Austin Water services over 1 million people in the Austin metropolitan area across more than 548 square miles.

Daryl Slusher has served as the Assistant Director of Environmental Affairs and Conservation at Austin Water since 2007. He is retiring from Austin Water at the end of this year.