City of Novato, CA
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Conserve Water
Although the historic drought is technically over, it is still vitally important that we use water wisely. It takes a significant amount of energy to distribute and treat water (19% of total energy use in California), so when you conserve water you save energy.
North Marin Water District, the local water utility that serves Novato offers a whole range of programs and incentives to reduce household water use including a FREE Water Smart Home Survey, clothes washer rebate, toilet rebate, water saving fixtures, pool cover rebate, landscapes rebate, and a hot water recirculation rebate.
Harvest the Rain
Rain falls from the sky for free, why not catch it? From simple rain barrels, to cisterns that hold thousands of gallons, to rain gardens lush with plants, there’s a rainwater harvesting solution for everyone. Catching rainwater before it flows into our storm drains can help prevent flooding, recharge groundwater, and reduce erosion. As a general rule, a 1000 square foot roof can generate 600 gallons of rainwater for every inch of rain. Check out North Marin Water District’s rainwater catchment system rebate.
Prevent Pollution
We are blessed to live in an environment rich with wetlands, seashores and baylands, and we all have a part to play in keeping these environments free of pollution. Novato Sanitary District treats all water that is flushed down the toilet and drained through sinks, dishwashers, baths and showers prior to releasing it into the Bay. The wastewater treatment process is designed to remove solids, and items such as pharmaceuticals and chemicals should never go down the drain.
Also, water that goes down storm drains is NOT treated and goes straight into the bay. You can help to reduce storm water pollution by eliminating the use of landscape chemicals, washing your car at a car wash facility rather than on your driveway, and properly disposing of pet waste. Never pour chemicals in a storm drain.