Miami-Dade Program Saves Residents Water & Money

MIAMI (CBS4) -- Recent rain across South Florida has provided some relief to drought conditions but it's still not enough. Research shows more water is used during the month of July than in any other month of the year and that could mean weigh heavily on your wallet. But there is a local program designed to save money now and in the future.

The program is run by the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department which modified Robert Ruano's sprinkler system by adding zones and installing a timer with moisture sensors.

Now Robert has a lush lawn, a vegetable garden, and he takes great pride in his lawn's practicality.

"Everything that I have planted is native and Florida friendly," explained Robert to CBS4's Jorge Estevez, which means it all requires less water. However, the dry season presented a problem. Without the rain, the yard and lush landscaping would get a little brown.

By modifying the sprinkler system, Robert saves money and targets the problem areas.

"They saw where it was watering too much and too little and they helped me adjust it," explained Robert.

The adjustments literally pay off.

"You would be amazed at how much water is used. More water is used in your lawn that any other part of your house," said Jennifer Messemer of Miami-Dade Water and Sewer.

So how can you save money with these Smart Irrigation Rebates?

If you install rain sensors, you'll get a $120 rebate, a sprinkler installation will land you $200, a moisture sensor will garner you $300 and a redesigned irrigation system will get you a $400 rebate.

Another popular plan is removing unnecessary sprinkler heads for a $200 rebate.

The plan is simple, wasting water wastes money. Robert received $400 back on the work he did with his lawn.

"I am very happy with the system. I am very happy with the program," said Robert.

The average savings can vary but the department estimates people who apply some of the water saving tactics will use about a third less water on their lawns.

For more information, click here.