Pure Water Project Las Virgenes-Triunfo
HomeWeather-based “smart” controllers are a marvelous tool for regulating your outdoor use of water, preventing both under- and over-watering. Over-watering, of course, is a concern in drought-prone Southern California. Weather-based “smart” controllers apply just the right amount of water.
They can provide an appropriate watering schedule that automatically adjusts watering times to weather and seasonal changes, and will irrigate based on the needs of your plants and soil conditions.
You can select models that use real-time local weather data, either by connecting directly to the internet or by accessing WiFi. Some even have phone apps that allow you to monitor water usage and adjust watering no matter when or where you are.
To help you minimize the cost of your investment in smart controller technology, the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District is working with Rachio to offer a $99 discounted price on their 8 and 16 station smart controllers:
https://go.rachio.com/lvmwd
Also, SoCal Water$mart offers rebates on smart controllers. For a list of eligible models and information on how to apply, check out the SoCal Water$mart website:
https://socalwatersmart.com/en/residential/rebates/available-rebates/irrigation-controllers/
If you’re confused about the number of stations (also called zones) you’ll need, the best idea is to make a plan. You’ll want to group plants by their water needs and the amount of sun or shade in each part of your garden, at the very least, to get the most out of your smart controller. Follow the helpful tips in the Irrigation Zones for Water Savings Efficiency Guide.
Retire your old-fashioned irrigation timer and start saving water today with a new “smart” irrigation controller. They are easy to use and surprisingly affordable.