Southern Nevadans participate in free water-saving study

In its continuing effort to find new and more efficient ways to save water, the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) is conducting a free study to test a water-efficient lawn sprinkler technology.

The SNWA's Water Smart Sprinkler Study will test the devices' ability to reduce the amount of water needed to maintain a lawn while maintaining or improving turf quality. The SNWA estimates that the devices can reduce water use by as much as 30 percent, compared to standard pop-up sprinklers.

These high-tech water smart sprinklers typically apply water more evenly, reducing dry spots without overwatering. They also apply water at a rate that allows it to be more readily absorbed into the soil instead of running off.

SNWA staff members will replace existing plastic pop-up spray heads with the water smart sprinklers, provided free of charge. Participants will need to allow SNWA employees on their property to install the devices and monitor water use. The study will take at least a year to complete.

Although applications for the study are no longer being accepted, similar devices can be purchased through local irrigation companies and nurseries.