Managing a community water supply system, whether government or privately owned, is definitely a costly endeavor. I know expenses are driven in large part by the need to comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and the Clean Water Act (CWA). However, even though I am familiar with the challenges rural water companies face because of working with organizations like California's Carmel Riviera Mutual Water Company, I was surprised by a 2010 congressional report that indicates community water and wastewater utilities need as much as $80 billion to fund required projects! That's a mighty big chunk of change. When every penny counts, it's important to conserve resources, and not just financial ones. As much as possible, you want to eliminate water loss through things like leaks, waste and evaporation. Every drop saved can be delivered and subsequently billed to customers, leaving you additional funds to move those compliance projects forward. The right flow meter - one that does not require expensive shut-downs, pipe cutting or plumbing - can help you minimize water losses in several key ways:

1. Figure out your water-loss percentage. At Carmel Riviera, they thought it was 30%. After implementing our InnovaSonic® 205 clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter, they discovered it was only 12%! This knowledge helped them reassess their budget in a big way.
2. Be more efficient. You don't have to depend on guestimates. A good flowmeter will help you increase production.
3. Increase the quality of the water you produce. Decrease your back flush with a quality, accurate flowmeter and ensure compliance with regulations.
4. Discover those who use too much water. Your flow meter can help you determine those who may potentially be wasting water.

Before you choose a wastewater flowmeter, be sure it can deliver all of the above. If you'd like to learn more about Sierra's solutions for this industry, contact us.