SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Oct. 29, 2015 -- Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery (SVNC) with the Federal Green Challenge award for reducing water consumption by more than 22 percent -- nearly 14 million gallons -- in 2014.
EPA Regional Administrator Jared Blumenfeld presented the award to the 561-acre SVNC during a ceremony held on the premises, which was followed by a turf moisture sensor demonstration and a tour of the cemetery's irrigation monitoring system.
"California is in the fourth year of a major drought and experiencing one of the driest periods in its recorded history," said Blumenfeld. "Through innovative technology and planning, the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery was able to conserve water and preserve the green landscaping our veterans and their families deserve."
In 2014, SVNC purchased a Moisture Monitoring Sensor and Irrigation Control System to measure the moisture of the site's turf areas and ensure efficient water usage. Additionally, it reprogramed the irrigation system to turn off after a rain event, audited its sprinkler system and realigned all irrigation heads to ensure that no water was wasted by improper distribution.
Overall, it reduced potable water use by nearly 100,000 gallons and cut water used for landscaping by 22 percent in just one year -- putting it on track to achieve the statewide water conservation goals.
The Federal Green Challenge is a national effort under EPA's Sustainable Materials Management Program encouraging federal offices to reduce their environmental impact. Agencies strive for annual improvements in waste, electronics, purchasing, water, energy and transportation.
See also:
"EPA allots $1.6B in CWA funds to upgrade Sacramento's wastewater treatment plant"
"Water Shortage Limitations on California's 'New Gold Rush'"
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