Saving water

Free audit offered to Stratford utility users

Residential Stratford utility users will be provided a free water audit to help reduce water use by homeowners.

The free audit, which is a partnership between the municipality and the Stratford Area Watershed Improvement Group, will outline usage patterns, identify leaks in homes and offer potential ways to save water.

“This program is another in a series of initiatives the town has been working on,” said Stratford Mayor Steve Ogden.

“We are pleased to provide residents with a free water audit to help identify ways homeowners can reduce their water consumption. Residents in Stratford have shown their commitment to reducing water usage through previous programs, and we anticipate this water audit program to have quick uptake as well.”

Residential homeowners in Stratford who have a water meter installed qualify for the audit. Homeowners will also receive instructions on how to read their water meter and how to regularly check for leaks.

Residents who qualify will be required to fill out and return two forms before the water audit takes place and must be present during the water audit, which will take approximately one hour to complete.

With previous initiatives such as the toilet rebate program and low-flow showerhead exchange program, the municipality is looking to the new water audit program as a means to further reduce water consumption and waste by making recommendations tailored to the individual homeowner.

“It is important for the Town of Stratford to continue to promote water conservation initiatives and work with residents to reduce local water usage,” said Connie Gaudet, acting chairwoman of the Stratford Area Watershed Improvement Group.

“These actions can help ensure a clean and abundant source of water by reducing the amount of water removed from the watershed.”

The current program will run until April. Residents are encouraged to think about their water consumption habits and participate in the water audit program. More information is available on the SAWIG or town’s websites at www. sawig.wordpress.com or www. townofstratford.ca, by calling 902-367-3605 or by stopping by Stratford town offices during regular office hours.