900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

February 2012                                                                        Editor: David Irish

                                                                                        General Manager                                                                                                                     303-922-1113

Cold Weather Still Possible!

            Don’t let the warm weather trick you into turning on the sprinkler system or leaving the hose connected to the house. Wintertime watering is important, especially during the dry spells we have had lately. However, historic average temperatures in the Denver area will show that the odds are in favor of having a very cold snap before we reach spring. Each year that we have a warm stretch of weather in the winter some homeowners forget to remove the hose from the hose bib or they turn the sprinkler system on and the cold temperatures will cause piping to freeze and then break. Many field service calls occur each year to assist homeowners in turning off leaking pipes that cause damage to equipment and basements. In extreme cold weather leave cabinets open to allow for warm air to circulate and leaving a distant faucet dripping slightly, will prevent a problem.  Additional cold weather tips can be found at www.denverwater.org under the “Water Service and Support” tab.

District to Upgrade Billing System in 2012.

In 2012 Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District will change the billing software the District has used for over 15 years. The new system will allow for customers to access their accounts on line, to check current water usage, or to see water and sewer billing information. The system will also allow for credit card payments as well as one time automatic payments to be initiated by customers. This new billing software will also link to the Districts new GIS program to instantly connect to a database of information that will improve efficiency in many areas of office and field operations. Please look for changes in 2012!

Denver Water Rebates Available for Residential and Commercial Customers in 2012

            The water saving device rebate program has been funded for 2012. The purchase of qualifying high efficiency clothes washers, high efficiency toilets (1.28 gallons per flush), rotary nozzles, and weather-based smart controllers are eligible for a rebate paid directly to Bancroft-Clover customers by Denver Water. Some rebates have been changed for 2012 so check the information before purchasing items!  Forms and receipts must be delivered to the Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District office for verification and forwarding to Denver Water for processing. Complete program information including specific model eligibility and forms are available at www.denverwater.org under the conservation tab. Bancroft-Clover customers were among the leaders of suburban water users in the amount of rebates received in 2011.

Save Time and Postage in 2012!

            Join the Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District’s Automatic Payment Program. The program can save time paying bills and will prevent the account from ever having a late fee. There is no charge for the program and customers will even save on postage. A bill is sent to all District customers with detailed water use information. Customers will be advised of the specific date when the automatic payment will be deducted from their account. If there are any questions on the monthly billing customers may call the District office prior to the payment.

Reminder: the District does not take credit card or over the phone payments.

Thank you to the District customers that participate in the program!

————————————————————————————————————

AUTHORIZATION FOR DIRECT PAYMENT / AUTOMATIC BILL PAYMENT

Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District

I (we) authorize the Company (Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District) to initiate variable entries to my (our) account described below.

TO IMPLEMENT THE AUTOMATIC BILL PAYMENT, PLEASE COMPLETE THE INFORMATION FORM.

PLEASE ATTACH A VOIDED CHECK.

Signature_________________________________________

Print Full Name ___________________________________

Address________________________________________________________________

Telephone_____________________________

Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District Billing Account Number_______________________________

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

January 2012                                                                          Editor: David Irish

                                                                                       General Manager                                                                                                                     303-922-1113

2012 Adopted Budget Reflects 7.4% Water Rate Increase

            Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District’s Board of Directors adopted a Budget for 2012 that contains an increase of 7.4% for customers on their water rates. The wholesale water rate from Denver Water increased 5.5 % to Bancroft-Clover resulting in a 1.9% increase for the District portion of water operations. Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District continues to look for ways to reduce costs while maintaining a very high level of service. Bancroft-Clover is a Denver Water Master Meter Distributor. Additional information regarding Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District can be found at www.bancroft-clover.com and information about Denver Water can be found at www.denverwater.org. Please contact the District office with any questions. Specific rate information is on the reverse side of this newsletter.

Single Family Residential Sewer Rates Will Increase 6.1% for 2012.

The sanitary sewer flows generated by District customers are treated by Metro Wastewater Reclamation District by contract with Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District. The Bancroft Board of Directors approved a 6.1% increase on sewer rates that will cost single family customers an additional $0.91 per month. Information regarding the increases in other rate categories is on the back of this newsletter. Additional information regarding the Metro Wastewater Reclamation District is available at www.metrowastewater.com. Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District sewer service rates are below average for the Denver metro area.

Board of Directors Election Notice

             There may be a Board of Directors Election for three Board positions on Tuesday May 8, 2012. Self nomination forms will be available in the District office at 900 S. Wadsworth Blvd. Lakewood, CO 80226 after February 8, 2012 and must be returned to the offices of Grimshaw & Harring, 1700 Lincoln Street, Suite 3800, Denver, Colorado 80203 by Friday March 2, 2012. Write in candidates may file an affidavit to be eligible for the election by Monday, March 5, 2012. Please contact the District office with any questions or for additional information.

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

December 2011                                            Editor: David Irish

                                                                               General Manager

Take Precautions if Temperature is Below Zero

When the temperature is going to be below zero, home and business owners can take precautions that will greatly reduce the chances of a water pipe freezing. First of all find and label your water shut off valve in case of emergencies! A problem may occur when friends or relatives are in the home and you are not. If there are water pipes that are inside a cabinet or on outside walls customers should leave the cabinets open to allow for warm air to circulate in that area to keep the pipes from freezing. Also a faucet farthest away from where the water enters the home can be left dripping slightly to avoid freezing in extreme cold weather. The small amount of water used could save a big headache and expense if the water lines freeze and break. If a home or business will be vacant for several days during a cold snap keep the thermostat setting at 65 degrees or higher.

If a water pipe is frozen use caution to warm the line to avoid breaking. Before attempting to thaw piping turn off the water shut off valve in the basement to avoid a rush of water if the line does break. Warm the pipe with a hair dryer, not a torch! Warming the line too fast can cause it to break and using a torch could set your home on fire. If you do experience a frozen pipe you can call the District office to determine that the frozen line is in your home and you can call a plumber for assistance if you are not comfortable with attempting to thaw the line yourself. 

Help Keep Fire Hydrants Clear of Snow

            If there is a large snow storm many times fire hydrants can get buried making it very difficult if West Metro Fire would need to use the hydrant in an emergency. If you use a plow service it is important to remind them to not block the fire hydrant. This is especially important for businesses and HOA representatives. If you observe a fire hydrant blocked with snow please contact the District office at 303-922-1113.

Did You Remember to Disconnect Hoses?

            Failing to remember to remove hoses from the connection to your home can result in damage now or the damage may not show itself until when you use the hose the next time in the spring and a flooded basement is the result. If the hose bib is in the shade or on the north side of the structure an insulated hose bib cover is recommended. An insulated cover can be purchased at most hardware stores. 

Frequently Asked Water Questions

Q. Who tests our water?

A. Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District provides treated Denver Water to all customers. Denver Water must comply with all Environmental Protection Agency and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment requirements for potable water. There are more than 10,000 samples taken with more than 50,000 laboratory tests performed each year to ensure the water is safe and meets all regulations.  The frequency of the samples and the locations that the samples are taken from depends on the specific water test being performed. Denver Water obtains water samples from the entire metro area however there are samples obtained from inside the Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District boundaries on a routine basis. Water quality information can be found on the Denver Water web site www.denverwater.org.

Q. Why are there aerators on the faucets at my home?

A. Using an aerator adds tiny air bubbles to the water. When the water is running it will cause less splashing. The aerator will also reduce the flow and thereby conserve water.

Q. My drinking water often looks cloudy at first in a glass then it clears. What causes that?

A. Tiny air bubbles in the water will make water appear to be cloudy. The air will clear from the bottom of the glass to the top in just a few minutes. This is more likely to occur in the winter when the water is colder and there is more dissolved oxygen.

 Q. Is bottled water safer than tap water?

A. There are many bottled water companies that start with tap water as their source. Bottled water is not nearly as regulated as tap water. Bottled water is covered by the Food and Drug Administration and is regulated as a food product. All public water providers are required to release water quality testing information on the water produced and sent to customers. There is no such regulation for bottled water companies.

Q. Should I use warm or hot water to drink or cook with?

A. No, never use hot water for drinking or food preparation.  Hot water tanks and systems have metallic parts that corrode and will make the quality of the water different than the treated water and could be harmful.

Q. Is Denver’s water safe to drink?

A. Yes, Denver Water has never violated any water quality standards and meets all requirements set forth by the EPA and the CDPHE. Denver’s water earned second place in the national water taste test competition conducted by the American Water Works Association in 2011.

Q. Where can I get water quality information?

A. Comprehensive water quality information can be found on the Denver Water website, www.denverwater.org. Click the “Water Quality” tab and you will find information. Also a water quality report will be sent to all customers each year directly from Denver Water. If you have questions or need any additional information please contact the District office at 303-922-1113.

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

November 2011                                                                            Editor: David Irish

                                                                                                    General Manager                                                                                                                                                         303-922-1113

Rebates Still Available for Water Saving Devices!

Denver Water is still offering rebates for water saving devices purchased in 2011. Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District customers continue to be among the leaders in the suburban metro area for rebates received totaling in the thousands of dollars. Some items can be found for little cost to the customer after rebate.

The rebate amounts for 2011 include the following items:

·         $100.00 Rebate for Clothes Washers. These items must be on Denver Water’s qualifying model list. Only 1 clothes washer rebate per residence.

·         $75.00 Rebate for High-efficiency Toilets. Only qualifying models that use 1.28 gallons per flush or less are eligible for the rebate and these items must be on Denver Water’s qualifying model list. Limit 3 toilets per residence.

·         $50.00 Rebate for Wireless Rain Sensors. All wireless rain sensor models that connect to an automatic, in-ground irrigation system are eligible for the rebate. Limit 1 sensor per residence.

·         $25.00 Rebate for Wired Rain Sensors. All wired rain sensor models that connect to an automatic, in-ground irrigation system are eligible for the rebate. Limit 1 sensor per residence.

·         $5.00 Rebate per nozzle (minimum 4 nozzles) for Rotary Nozzles.  Only three specific nozzles are approved for the rebates. Please contact the District office or check Denver Water’s web site for specifics. This is a onetime rebate per residence.

·         $100.00 Rebate for the purchase of a qualifying Weather-based smart controllers for sprinkler systems. This item must qualify under Denver Water’s qualifying model list. Limit 1 controller per residence.

Rebate Forms and Specific Model Qualifying Information can be found at

www.denverwater.org  under the conservation tab. Please check model numbers as the list is updated regularly.

Rebate forms and supporting documentation must be mailed or delivered to the Bancroft-Clover Water and District offices located at 900 South Wadsworth Blvd. The District will forward the rebate applications to Denver Water for processing. All rebates are funded by Denver Water.

Prevent Sewer Line Problems During the Holidays

            Many sewer service line problems will show themselves at the worst times. The holiday season can add to this problem by having more than the usual number of people in the home, more meals prepared in the home or the type and amount of material sent down the sink. If customers are having issues with their service lines it is an excellent idea to have service performed before that big holiday meal or party day!

            Remember, no grease should ever be put down the drain! The grease will clog your sewer service line especially if you have roots and may cause an expensive backup or repair bill. Put grease in a can and throw it away in the trash.  Never put potato peels (or any other types of peels) down the drain. The peels do not break down very well in the garbage disposal and could again cause a backup at usually the most inconvenient time. Sewer service lines that have some roots from large trees can be easily plugged with peels or similar items being put down the drain. Remember that the Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District is not responsible for sewer service line backups and clean up can be very expensive. Insurance coverage is usually available through your homeowner’s coverage as a rider to most policies. See information below!

Add Sewer Backup Coverage to Homeowners Coverage

            Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not include sewer backup coverage. This coverage can be added as a rider to the existing policy for a nominal additional premium. The coverage will usually be offered in different coverage amounts. This is excellent protection for what could be an expensive cleanup. Call your homeowners insurance agent for more information.           

The number may be called twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. A field representative will respond to ensure the main line is not blocked and backing up. If the blockage is determined to be in the service line the home or business owner will be responsible for hiring a contractor to repair or replace the line.

Did You Winterize?

            The cold weather is upon us and any sprinkler systems that have not been winterized will be damaged! This damage can also come in the form of a flooded basement when the piping begins to thaw. The expensive repairs can be avoided with proper winterizing of the system. Many systems require compressed air to be blown through the system to get rid of all the water in the sprinkler piping. For this work a contractor will usually be needed. If any customer has any questions regarding the winterization process please call the District office and a field representative can assist you over the phone or on site if needed. Additional information can be found on the Denver Water web site www.denverwater.org.

            Remember to disconnect the hoses from hose bibs on the side of your home. This can result in water damage and water leaking into your basement or crawl space. Some hose bibs on the north side or shady areas should be covered with an insulation cap that can be purchased at most hardware and home supply stores.

            Locate and label your whole house water shut off valve! If you need assistance, call the District office to get help in locating the valve.

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

October 2011                                                                         Editor: David Irish

                                                                                                           General Manager

                                                                                                           303-922-1113

Time To Winterize!

Customers should turn off sprinkler systems and disconnect hoses from the hose bibs for the winter. The very cold weather can come any time after the beginning of October and the average first frost in the Denver area is October 7. A hard frost before systems are winterized could result in expensive repairs.

Sprinkler systems should be shut off, the drain valves and valves on the vacuum breaker should be opened, and most systems need to have pressurized air blown into each zone to ensure the removal of all the water in the system. Standing water in elbows or low spots could result in a necessary repair next spring when the system is turned back on. If the vacuum breaker is on the north side of your property in the shade additional insulation may be required!

All water hoses should be disconnected from the hose bibs. If there is an additional shut off valve in the basement that feeds the hose bib, it should be shut off also. If there is not an additional valve there are insulated hose bib covers that can be purchased and installed to help prevent any freezing of the pipes. Hose bid covers are available at hardware stores.

Most air conditioners do not need any special treatment as we go into cold weather however swamp coolers need to have the water supply disconnected and the system drained. It is very common for Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District to receive calls in the early winter to respond to a broken swamp cooler water supply line that is leaking. These lines can even break in the attic which can cause the ceiling to collapse inside causing thousands of dollars of damage.

Check your crawl space and other closed in places in your home or business that the water piping may not have warm air circulation. In very cold weather (below 0 degrees), heat tape on piping in a cold crawl space, leaving the cupboards open under the kitchen sink to allow for warm air to circulate, or even allowing a small amount of water drip over night will minimize the chances of a frozen water pipe and the possible resulting damage.

Additional information regarding winterizing and cold weather tips can be found on the Denver Water web site www.denverwater.org.

Watering Rules Expire October 1^st.

The restrictions on turf watering expire on October 1^st this year. The limitation of watering between 10AM and 6PM will go into effect again in the spring of 2012. This change will allow for homeowners and businesses to water during the day in the winter when their landscape is dry. Winter watering is very important in the Denver metro area as there could be weeks at a time with very little precipitation. Deep root watering is the best method to provide water directly to the roots.

Please Provide the District With an Emergency Phone Number

Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District maintains a data base of customer phone numbers to use in case of an emergency or to advise a customer of higher than usual water use. This proactive contact of customers can save water and can save customers money by catching a water leak up to two weeks before the bill would have been received.

Please write your phone number on your check or call the District office at 303-922-1113 to provide a current emergency phone number.

Save Time and Postage-Sign Up for the Automatic Payment Program

            Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District’s Automatic Payment Program can save the District’s customers time paying bills and will prevent them from ever having a late fee! There is no charge for the program and customers even save on postage. A bill is sent to all District customers with detailed water use information. Customers will be advised of the specific date when the automatic payment will be deducted from their account. If there are any questions on the monthly billing customers may call the District office prior to the payment.

Reminder: the District does not take credit card or over the phone payments.

Thank you to the District customers that participate in the program!

————————————————————————————————————

AUTHORIZATION FOR DIRECT PAYMENT / AUTOMATIC BILL PAYMENT

Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District

I (we) authorize the Company (Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District) to initiate variable entries to my (our) account described below.

Checking Account Number              __________________________________

Financial Institutions Name            __________________________________

TO IMPLEMENT THE AUTOMATIC BILL PAYMENT, PLEASE COMPLETE THE INFORMATION FORM.

PLEASE ATTACH A VOIDED CHECK.

Signature_________________________________________

Print Full Name ___________________________________

Address________________________________________________________________

Telephone_____________________________

Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District Billing Account Number_______________________________

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

September 2011                                                                                 Editor: David Irish

                                                                                                          General  Manager                                                                                                                                                         

                                                                                                          303-922-1113

Denver Water Takes Second Place in the Country at the

 “Best of the Best” Water Taste Competition in

Washington D.C.

The Taste Test Competition was conducted during the annual national conference of the American Water Works Association.  The other participants were all regional winners of water taste competitions from all over the country. Denver Water moved on to the national competition by winning a regional taste test participating with utilities from Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico. The second place finish is another indicator of the excellent, high quality drinking water provided by Denver Water to all Bancroft-Clover customers. The winner was the Greenville Water System of the City of Greenville South Carolina.

Rebates Still Available for Residential and Commercial Customers

            The water saving device rebate program still has funds for 2011. The rebate program is funded by the Denver Water Department. The purchase of qualifying high efficiency clothes washers, high efficiency toilets, wireless rain sensors, rotary nozzles and weather-based smart controllers are eligible for a rebate paid directly to Bancroft-Clover customers by Denver Water. Forms and receipts must be delivered to the Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District office for verification and forwarding to Denver Water for processing. Complete program information including specific model eligibility and forms are available at www.denverwater.org under the conservation tab. Bancroft-Clover customers were among the leaders of suburban water providers in the amount of rebates received in 2010. There were 855 rebates processed for Bancroft-Clover customers in 2010 totaling thousands of dollars. Contact the District office for more information and assistance.

New Pumping Stations “On-Line”

            In late 2010 and early 2011 Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District performed complete replacements of two below street pumping stations. These stations were in continuous use since the early 1970’s and were in need of upsizing. The stations were rebuilt to meet the fire flow requirements of today and the electronics were improved. Variable speed motors and new motor control centers were added to have less stress on the water distribution system and to greatly improve electrical efficiency. A SCADA system was added to monitor the stations and to bring real time information to the District office for monitoring by maintenance personnel. The new pump stations are a proactive system infrastructure improvement that was paid for by Bancroft-Clover reserve funds earmarked for system replacements. 

District Completes Top Priority Projects

            In 2003 the District performed a comprehensive study and developed a Master Plan for Infrastructure Replacement. This initial study identified a considerable amount of work as top priority. Most of this work entailed replacement of older 4-inch water line that was installed in the 1950’s. This line was getting to the end of its useful life however it was found to be too small to provide enough water flow for newer firefighting equipment. All of the older 4-inch line that was feeding fire hydrants was replaced in the last eight years. There were also other small projects needed to allow for the water to flow properly in the distribution system and dozens of new fire hydrants were added to provide additional fire protection. All top priority projects have been completed and the cost was under original engineer’s estimates. These improvements have greatly updated the water distribution system and will benefit District customers for decades to come.

Watering Rules in Effect Until October 1

            The watering rules for 2011 are in effect until October 1 for all Bancroft-Clover customers.

• No watering of turf areas between 10AM and 6PM.
• Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets or alleys.
• Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
• Do not irrigate during periods of high winds or rainy weather.
• Use a shut-off nozzle to wash vehicles.

Free “Use Only What You Need” yard signs are available in the District office. Come by anytime between 7AM and 4PM Monday to Friday.

Please help to conserve water!

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

August 2011                                                                                      Editor: David Irish

                                                                                                            General Manager                                                                                                                     303-922-1113

Hot Weather Watering Tips

A typical customer will use over 50% of the total annual water at an address on the landscape outdoors in the summer!

The following are a few tips to help your lawn and landscape get through the heat:

• Never water during the heat of the day! Water in the early morning if possible. The mornings tend to be less windy than evenings and it is better for the turf to be watered in the morning. Reminder: No watering between 10AM and 6PM!

• If the landscape has slopes consider watering two times for 10 minutes per zone instead of 20 minutes per zone only once. This will help minimize runoff.

• Double check the operation of each sprinkler head. If possible replace several “pop up” type heads with a rotary head. If you are replacing four or more to rotary heads a rebate is available from Denver Water. See Denver Water’s web site www.denverwater.org and click the “Conservation” tab to get more information.

• Consider hand watering trouble spots instead of watering the whole landscape more. Deep root watering is the best method in this hot weather getting the water directly to the roots.

• Customize the run times for the sprinkler system to reflect the conditions of the zone. A sprinkler system zone that is mostly in the shade will use much less water that an area in full sun.

• Watch the weather forecast. If there is rain in the forecast turn off the sprinkler system and see if it rains. If not, then just water the next day. Watering schedules are up to individual customers.

• Deep Root Water Trouble Spots. Areas in the landscape that are especially dry could use a deep root watering instead of increasing the amount of water applied to the whole lawn.

Will You Be Covered for a Water Leak in a Home or Business?

            The District is not responsible for water damage to a home or business that is the result of a leak in a service line or internal plumbing. Call your homeowner’s insurance agent to see if you would be covered. If you do have a water leak, call the District office anytime at 303-922-1113. There are service personnel available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to assist customers. Repairs to water service lines and internal plumbing are the responsibility of the customer. Remember to call your insurance agent and take pictures before the clean up process begins.

Do You Know Where Your Water Shut-off Valve is Located?

            In the event of a water leak or an emergency do you know where to turn off the water to your home or business? There should be a valve located in the basement or crawl space near the front of the house where the water service line enters the structure. Once the shut-off valve is, located label it with a large tag. Many times water emergencies occur when other people are in your home or when newer employees may be working and do not know the building. Also leave the Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District phone number available.

District Field Crews to Complete 2011 Water System Maintenance.

            The field crews of the District have nearly completed the 2011 water system maintenance. This maintenance consists of an inspection and test of all the District’s fire hydrants to ensure proper operation. The flushing program is also important to keep the water main lines free of sediment and will also help with water quality in areas of the system that have low water use. The field crews will also perform inspections and operate half of the District’s water main line valves. The inspections will help the District determine any problems before the valves are needed in an emergency. If any problems are found the maintenance contractor for the District will repair the valve in the street. 

            Each year the field crews of Bancroft-Clover will perform over 2000 site visits and inspections of fire hydrants and main line valves.

Please help to conserve water!

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

July 2011                                                                                            Editor: David Irish

                                                                                                            General Manager                                                                                                                     303-922-1113

Adjust Sprinkler System Timing Every Month To Save Water!

            Many people set the minutes to water on each zone of their automatic sprinkler system at the beginning of the irrigation season and do not adjust that setting all summer. Adjusting the timing of watering each area of turf for the month of the summer instead of setting it once can save approximately fifty percent of the total water used! Each zone or area needs only half the water in May and September that it needs in July or August. A chart is available on the Denver Water web site www.denverwater.org under the conservation tab that will help compute how many minutes each zone needs for each month of the summer.

2011 Watering Rules

            Watering rules for the 2011 irrigation season are now in effect. Additional information, watering tips, and water conservation ideas can be found on the Denver Water web site www.denverwater.org.

Please take a look at the following watering rules and regulations:

• Water during the cooler times of the day. Lawn watering is not allowed between 10AM and 6PM.
• Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets or alleys.
• Do not waste water by spraying or sprinkling concrete or asphalt.
• Repair leaking or broken sprinkler systems within 10 days.
• Do not water when it is windy or raining.
• Water only three times per week, (you choose the days).
• There are exemptions for new sod or new plantings.

Gardens can be watered anytime, however, it is also recommended to water before 10AM or after 6PM. Please contact the District office at 303-922-1113 to report water waste.

Water Conservation “Freebies” Available!

            There are t-shirts and other freebies available for Bancroft-Clover customers from Denver Water’s web site. Click on the “Conservation” tab and then choose the “Use Only What You Need” information tab to access the free water conservation related items. There are orange “Use Only What You Need” yard signs available at the District office to encourage water conservation. The signs are free and are available from 7AM to 4PM Monday through Friday.

Look For Products and Services With the WaterSense Label

            Denver Water has developed a partnership with the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and WaterSense. This is a national program that makes it easy for anyone to choose a product or service that will save water without losing out on quality or product performance. WaterSense labeled products have been independently certified for water efficiency and performance. It also certifies industry professionals who promote the efficient use of water and the use of water saving items.

            Products include bathroom sink faucets, high-efficiency toilets and urinals, showerheads, landscape irrigation services and weather-based irrigation controllers.

Look for the WaterSense label when purchasing water related products. There is quarterly newsletter that can be found at The WaterSense Current, or on the EPA website www.epa.gov/watersense.

Save Water and Get a Rebate

            The 2011 Denver Water Rebate Program is in full swing with rebates provided for customers purchasing and installing qualifying high-efficient toilets, washing machines, rain sensors and other water saving items. Bancroft-Clover customers received 855 rebate checks from Denver Water in 2010. This is among the leaders of all suburban water providers! Please check www.denverwater.org under the water conservation tab to identify the eligible items and to print rebate forms.  

Xeriscape Demonstration Garden in Full Bloom

            District staff has planted a garden in front of the District office using only low water use plantings. This garden is colorful and very water efficient. Next time you are at the District office take a look at the garden in front. The landscape plan was taken from suggestions from the Denver Water web site and additional information including specific plant suggestions can be provided to any interested District customers.

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

June 2011                                                                               Editor: David Irish

                                                                                                General Manager                                                                                                                     303-922-1113

District Customers to Receive Water Quality Report for 2011

            All District customers will receive the 2011 Water Quality Report produced by Denver Water. This report will be mailed directly to District customers by Denver Water in May or June. This report is mandatory for all water providers to provide to customers by the Environmental Protection Agency.  Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District receives all of the treated water that is provided to customers from Denver Water under a Master Meter Distributor contract. The detailed Consumer Confidence Report will contain information about the sources of water and the specific areas that Denver Water has water rights. Denver Water stores water in five mountain reservoirs; Antero, Eleven Mile Canyon, Cheesman, Dillon and Gross Reservoir. Also included in the report will be details of the treatment process that the water will go through as it moves from the mountain reservoirs to the treatment plants and finally to the Bancroft-Clover  Master Meters which measure all water that enters the Bancroft system. The remainder of the mailing will consist of water quality information. Denver monitors for microbial contaminants, inorganic contaminants, pesticides and herbicides, organic chemical contaminants and radioactive contaminants. Denver Water staff collected over 12,000 samples and performed more than 46,000 water quality tests in 2010. Using state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and testing techniques the Denver Water staff ensures that they are providing consistently excellent drinking water to all customers. Currently Denver Water provides water to over 1.3 million people in the Denver Metro Area.  If you have any questions regarding the 2011 Water Quality Report, please contact the District office or go directly to the Denver Water web site for more detailed information www.denverwater.org or call Denver Water at 303-628-6000.

Automatic Payment Program Available

            Join the District’s automatic payment plan to save postage and always avoid late charges! Please fill out the following information and drop it by the District office anytime between 7 AM and 4 PM Monday through Friday. Please call the District office at 303-922-1113 with any questions.

TO ENROLL IN THE AUTOMATIC BILL PAYMENT PROGRAM,

PLEASE COMPLETE THE INFORMATION FORM.

————————————————————————————————————

AUTHORIZATION FOR DIRECT PAYMENT / AUTOMATIC BILL PAYMENT

Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District

I (we) authorize the Company (Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District) to initiate variable entries to my (our) account described below.

Checking Account Number __________________________________

Financial Institutions Name __________________________________

PLEASE ATTACH A VOIDED CHECK.

Signature_________________________________________

Print Full Name ___________________________________

Address________________________________________________________________

Telephone_____________________________

Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District Billing Account

Number________

900 South Wadsworth Boulevard

Lakewood, Colorado 80226-4306

(303) 922-1113

www.Bancroft-Clover.com

NEWSLETTER

May 2011                                                                               Editor: David Irish

                                                                                                General Manager                                                                                                                     303-922-1113

Summer Watering Rules Begin May 1^st

            Summer watering rules go into effect on the first of May. This does not mean however that your lawn needs much water yet. Watch the weather and if we are still in a cool wet period wait to set those sprinkler systems. In a normal single family home one half of the total water used in the whole year goes to outdoor uses! This provides a great opportunity to save on our total water bill by saving water outdoors.

The watering rules that are in effect from May 1-October 1 are as follows:

·        No lawn watering between 10AM and 6PM.

·        Do not water more than 3 days per week, you may choose the days to water, there are no assigned days to water.

·        Do not waste water by allowing it to pool in gutters or streets.

·        Do not waste water by spraying concrete or asphalt.

·        Repair damaged or leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.

·        Do not water during high winds or when it is raining.

Please call the District office at 303-922-1113 to report water waste.

            The Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District receives all of the treated water that is provided to customers from Denver Water. Colorado has a very dry climate as a whole. This means everyone needs to help ensure there are sufficient drinking water supplies for the future of the Denver Water service area.  A significant aspect of Denver Water’s long term planning depends on water conservation. Please do your part to conserve water. Additional information regarding conservation, watering rules, water supply or water quality can be found on the Denver Water website www.denverwater.org.

Summer Watering Tips

            The first thing to do every year if you have an automatic sprinkler system is to pressure the system up and check if there are any control valves leaking in the sprinkler box or if there are any valves leaking thru to allow for a small amount of flow to go to a zone when the zone is not supposed to water. This type of leak is the most common and the most costly from the point of water leaked and money cost! If a valve is leaking into a zone it could potentially be leaking at ½ gallon per minute or more. This could result in over 700 gallons per day or 21,000 gallons in just one month from this one leak.

Next, run all zones to ensure that damage has not occurred to a line or sprinkler head during the winter. Observe the spray from all sprinkler heads to make sure the water is going onto turf areas only.

            Finally, the timing on your sprinkler system or the time you water with a manual sprinkler should be adjusted monthly to meet the needs of your lawn. Many homeowners water the same amount in May as they do in July or August. If you adjust the time you water for the specific month during the watering season you can save up to half of the water used outdoors with this one change!  

Replace Existing Turf Spray Nozzles With Rotary Nozzles and Cut Water Use By 30%!

            Replacing spray nozzles with rotary nozzles can cut water use and the improvement can also earn you a rebate from Denver Water. There is a minimum of four rotary heads that is required to qualify for a rebate and only specific models are accepted. The rebate is $5.00 for each rotary nozzle.  Up to 100 nozzles may be replaced but remember this is a onetime per household rebate! Model information can be found at www.denverwater.org under the conservation section.

            Rotary nozzles can cover more area than spray nozzles so one rotary could replace several spray sprinklers. The drop size is also larger than spray nozzles allowing for more water to be delivered to the turf and less to blow around in the air and possibly on to the street or driveway.

Bancroft-Clover Customers Continue To Receive Rebates

            The customers of Bancroft-Clover Water and Sanitation District continue to be among the suburban leaders in receiving water saving device rebates from Denver Water. Rebates will continue for 2011 for many types of water saving items. Check the Denver Water web site for details!