A Metropolitan Council program that saved an estimated 30 million gallons of water last year is being recognized as a national leader by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The WaterSense Excellence Award for Promoting the WaterSense Label recognizes the Met Council’s program as one of the top efforts in the nation for promoting WaterSense-labeled products through the regional Water Efficiency Grant Program and engagement in community outreach through the “turfgrass trailer.”
“As our region’s population grows, so does the demand for clean water. It is the most important resource we have for building prosperity and economic growth in our region,” said Council Member Peter Lindstrom, chair of the Met Council’s Environment Committee. “Our region has an abundant supply of water, but many communities rely on aquifers which can be stressed in drought years, or when the rate of growth is faster than those resources can recharge. Conserving and protecting this resource now ensures it will be there for our children and grandchildren.”
Water efficiency program helps residents replace water devices
In 2023, the Met Council continued its partnerships with cities to help residential customers and commercial properties cover the replacement of more than 800 irrigation controllers, 130 spray sprinkler bodies, and 1,000 toilets with models carrying the EPA’s WaterSense certification. The grant program is supported by Minnesota's Clean Water Fund.
Through a pilot project with Saint Paul Regional Water Services, the Met Council funded the installation of another 242 WaterSense-labeled toilets in apartment buildings located in disadvantaged areas in Saint Paul where tenants pay their water bills. The average household savings from that effort is $84 annually.
Supporting local conservation efforts through partnerships 
“This program is so successful because it builds on our commitment to tackle big problems with local and regional partnerships. Cities develop water conservation efforts that work best for their neighborhoods, and we help fund those efforts,” said Met Council Chair Charlie Zelle. “This is a regional issue, but it has to be addressed at the local level.”
During the Minnesota State Fair, the Met Council — in partnership with the University of Minnesota’s Turfgrass Science team — was able to reach thousands of attendees with information about smart irrigation and water conservation, including materials about WaterSense-labeled irrigation equipment.
“Helping people plant lawns that look good with significantly less water can save millions of gallons of water a year,” said Greg Johnson, principal engineer at the Met Council. “Our partnership with the U of M Turfgrass program helps people make good choices for their homes and the environment.”