Abstract ID: 14344 Title: Irrigation Alternatives to Meet Army Net Zero Water Goals Abstract Text: The

current Army vision for Net Zero Water describes a Net Zero Water installation as one which limits use of potable fresh water and also captures, repurposes or recharges an amount of water equal to or greater than the amount it consumes. There is also some flexibility as individual installations can vary their definition somewhat to meet local conditions. Drawdown of aquifers and surface waters, pollution of natural resources and impacts of drought and other climate change are among the drivers that mandate wise stewardship of this valuable resource. Achieving net zero water (NZW) begins with conservation and efficiency in installation use. NZW attainment also includes use of alternative water resources available through nonconventional approaches which include harvesting of rainwater/storm water, repurposing existing slightly used water for needs requiring a lesser quality or minimal treatment, and using treated wastewater or waters from activities such as pump and treat at groundwater remediation sites on installations. Also included is the complete realm of water reuse. A major component of water efficiency is directed at irrigation. This is often over fifty percent of daily installation summer water requirements. Large amounts of greenspace exist on installations: parade grounds, athletic fields, golf courses, parks, cemeteries, schools, and various degrees of landscaping (buildings, housing, highway medians, etc).. Federal and military mandates and drivers not only require substantial reductions in potable water consumption, but also reductions in nonpotable consumption including irrigation measured as a percentage per square foot basis. No longer is switching from potable to non-potable allowed as a method for achieving reductions in potable water consumption. There are a variety of options available for reductions in water consumption for irrigation and improvements in water efficiency: both technology and techniques. For example; smart controllers, sensors of various types, and advanced equipment and methods for distributing water have been developed. Techniques such as xeriscaping, use of native plants, irrigation audits, mulching, soil amendments, plant growth control hormones/regulators, landscape maintenance contracts, local ordinances, collection of stormwater and design of spaces to be irrigated to catch water or direct runoff to where it can be beneficially used, along with the tenets of low impact development are all appropriate alternatives dependent upon circumstances. Even the substitution of artificial turf for turf grass is a valid option in water conservation. This presentation will begin with a discussion of applicable drivers and current status and follow with a review of techniques and technologies including innovative and emerging concepts. It will also present examples from installations and others which may assist installations in achieving the goal of net zero water and comply with various federal mandates and Executive orders.