NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 31, 1998

TOWN MOVES INDOORS FOR WINTER WATER CONSERVATION CAMPAIGN

CARY, NC – Following on the heels of the most successful outdoor water conservation campaign to date, the Town of Cary is asking citizens to "look inside" for ways to help Cary continue its water-wise-ways. Beginning next week, the Town of Cary’s Water Conservation Program will be accepting reservations for its Water-Tight Household Audit—a two-month effort where water conservation specialists from the Town will, by appointment, visit with Cary homeowners and help them find ways to save water--and money--inside their homes.

During the audit, which takes about one hour, Town staff will examine sinks, showers, and toilets for leaks. They will also assess the efficiency of showerheads, faucets, and toilets. After the check, staff will sit down with the homeowner and discuss ways that water efficiency can be improved--from fixing leaks to replacing existing plumbing with new, low-flow devices. And while supplies last, staff will even be giving away some of these devices during their visits.

"We know that we can help many citizens save thousands of gallons of water each year through this effort," said Cary’s Water Conservation Specialist Jennifer Platt. "An improperly functioning toilet, for example, can waste up to 50 gallons of water per day. That’s more than three months worth of drinking water for one person."

Platt also points out that having a "Water-Tight" home may be a good resale tool. "These days, home buyers are looking for the best, long-term investment they can find, and having a home that operates efficiently is always appealing." Platt noted that many homes in the Cary area, especially those built before 1994, may not be equipped with the latest water-wise devices because they have only been mandated for the last few years.

For homeowners who want to conduct their own home audit, the Town is offering free Water Efficiency Test Kits which take people step-by-step through the process at their own pace.

To arrange for a water audit or to obtain a test kit, contact the Town of Cary’s Water Conservation Program at 469-4090.

Cary is one of only a handful of communities in North Carolina having a full-time, year-round water conservation program. Other communities include Asheville, Greensboro, and Durham.

###

PRIMARY CONTACTS: Jennifer Platt, Water Conservation Specialist, 462-3872 or 713-9800 (pager)

Bill Coleman, Town Manager, 469-4002

Susan Moran, Public Information Officer, 460-4951