Water Conservation Programs
The City of Thunder Bay delivers its water conservation programs through EcoSuperior Environmental Programs, encouraging wise water usage for homeowners as well as business and industry. The residential program includes home visits and incentives such as the $125 Toilet Replacement Rebate and a Water Barrel Program.
If you replace your water-guzzling toilet with a new water efficient model, you will get money back, save on your w
ater bill and reduce water use.
Water Conservation Programs
Toilet Rebates
The City of Thunder Bay Environment Division offers residents an incentive of $125 to replace an existing water-guzzling toilet with a water-efficient model. Residents must live in detached houses, semis, duplexes (buildings with up to six units), individual condos and townhouses.
If you have a toilet that was installed in your home before 1985 it may be consuming between 18 - 22 litres of water each time it is flushed. Newer, water conserving models use 6 litre, 4 litre or 3 litre flushes. Replacing that old water guzzler with a new toilet will save you money. You may qualify for the rebate if your home is on the City of Thunder Bay water supply and you have a water account in good standing. Detached and semi-detached homes, condominiums, townhouses and co-operative housing are eligible to participate. Contact EcoSuperior at 624-2140 or visit www.ecosuperior.org prior to any replacements. Toilets must be installed by a licenced plumber participating in the program. Contact EcoSuperior for a list of plumbers.
The commercial sector can also access a toilet rebate program through the EcoSuperior office.
Program participation and approval is contingent upon completion of a Water Saver Visit to your home or commercial building by EcoSuperior's conservation advisor.
Rain Barrel Sales
Rain barrels are a great way to save on your water bill. Capture rain water from your rooftop in a rain barrel and use it in your garden and on the lawn. Rain barrels are purchased by the City of Thunder Bay and made available through EcoSuperior at the subsidized price of $60. Contact EcoSuperior at 624-2140 to check for availability.
Water Wise Landscaping
Water wise landscaping, xeriscaping, is another great way to use water wisely outdoors. Xeriscaping refers to a style of garden design that minimizes water use. With a little planning you can reduce the water you need in your garden by create a water-conserving landscape. Select plants whose natural requirements are appropriate to our area and take care to design your garden and avoid losing water to evaporation and run-off. Replace grass lawn with a garden or alternate ground cover. Prevent weeds and keep moisture in your garden by applying a top layer of mulch or decorative rock. For more information visit EcoSuperior at www.ecosuperior.org
