The towns of Cochrane and Okotoks in Alberta are offering incentives to encourage residents to reduce their water usage outdoors. Cochrane resident Rebecca Carroll has transformed her front yard from grass to rock material, mulch, and drought-resistant plants, eliminating the need for irrigation except in very hot weather. The town of Cochrane offers six rebates to residents who want to cut back on water use, including the lawn alternative rebate. Carroll has seen a significant increase in the number of applications this year compared to last year, with the town using all of its allocated budget. Overall, Cochrane has reduced water use per capita by approximately 35% since 2009.
In Okotoks, there are similar incentives for residents looking to reduce their water consumption. The town’s environment team leader, Jinny Toffelmire, stated that the program usually sells out quickly, with 40% of funds already used up this year. There is a waitlist for residents in Okotoks who want cash from the town to help remove thirsty lawns. The rebates in Okotoks cover 50% of the cost for items such as installing drought-tolerant grass, up to a certain amount listed under each item. Toffelmire emphasized the importance of using less water and rainwater, especially with an impending drought expected.
Both Cochrane and Okotoks are encouraging residents to consider installing drought-tolerant items in their yards to reduce water usage. Toffelmire highlighted that having a rolling green lawn should not be the standard anymore, and there are many options available to help conserve water. Calgary also offers rain barrels but does not provide rebates. Rather, residents are offered rebates on purchases, and the city is exploring potential incentives to encourage water conservation through an update to the water efficiency plan in early 2025. In the past, Calgary had a successful toilet rebate program that helped residents swap out over 100,000 water-guzzling toilets for low-flow, high-efficiency models.
Overall, the initiatives in Cochrane, Okotoks, and Calgary aim to reduce water consumption and promote water conservation in residents’ outdoor spaces. With increasing concerns about drought and water scarcity, these programs incentivize residents to make more sustainable choices for their yards and gardens. The success of these programs is evidenced by the high demand for rebates and the significant reductions in water use per capita in Cochrane and Okotoks since the programs were introduced. By offering financial incentives and promoting the use of drought-tolerant plants and materials, these towns are taking proactive steps towards addressing water conservation challenges in their communities.
