The Current

Edition: September 2024

The Current is the monthly newsletter of Innovative Water Solutions where we highlight the great stuff happening at our company and also bring you up-to-date with some of the current water news that could affect you. We hope you enjoy the newsletter!

• Blog Post of the Month: Where it all began…
• FAQ Post of the Month: Rainwater harvesting in an urban environment?
• Residential Project of the Month: Tank Pad Highlight
• Commercial Project of the Month: Wichita State University
• Water News Article #1: A West Texas ranch and resort will limit water to residents amid fears its wells will run dry
• Water News Article #2: Martian Subsurface Harbours Oceans of Life-Giving Liquid Water
• Water News Article #3: Texas City Warned Not To Use Water
• Water Conservation Tip: Graywater Reuse
• Current Texas Drought Conditions
• Current Texas Water Calendar
• Video: Texas lawmakers look at improving water systems
• Extra: Water Testing and Inspections Offered

Every aspect of the installation process is important, but the tank pad site is definitely one of the most important features.

A tank pad is a crucial component of a rainwater harvesting system, providing a stable and level foundation for the water storage tank. It ensures that the tank remains secure and prevents uneven settling, which could lead to structural damage or leaks. A well-constructed tank pad also aids in proper drainage, protecting the tank from potential water damage and prolonging its lifespan. Investing in a quality tank pad is essential for the safety, efficiency, and durability of your rainwater harvesting system.

This installation in Haslet, Texas opted for a sand base, resulting in a beautiful and level surface for their 29,000 gallon Pioneer water storage tank.

Wichita State University in Kansas made significant strides in sustainability by implementing a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation. This system captures and stores rainwater, which is then used to water the campus grounds, reducing the university’s reliance on municipal water sources. By utilizing rainwater for irrigation, Wichita State conserved water and set an example for sustainable practices in higher education, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.
Innovative Water Solutions is proud to have designed and installed this system. Though we don’t often go out of states for projects, there are times when we make exceptions. Stay tuned next month for a look at our project we completed in Key West Florida!

To cope with a growing population and increasing demand for water, a popular resort and residential complex in Terlingua told its residents that it would limit water sales.

The eight-member board overseeing 200,000 acres of privately owned land and short-term rentals called Terlingua Ranch Lodge — about 70 miles from the Big Bend National Park — sells drinking and nondrinking water to permanent residents. Many rely on the association for their monthly supply.

But for the first time starting in September, the board will reduce the amount of nondrinking water residents can purchase monthly if the well water levels begin to drop. Board members hope to avoid running out of water again, as in 2018 when one of the ranch’s five wells dried up.

A study released using data from NASA’s Mars InSight lander shows evidence of liquid water far below the surface of the fourth planet, advancing the search for life there and showing what might have happened to Mars’ ancient oceans.
The lander, which has been on the Red Planet since 2018, measured seismic data over four years, examining how quakes shook the ground and determining what materials or substances were beneath the surface.  Based on that data, the researchers found liquid water was most likely present deep beneath the lander. Water is considered essential for life, and geological studies show the planet’s surface had lakes, rivers and oceans more than 3 billion years ago.

The residents of a city in the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area in Texas have been warned not to use water from the faucet after a foaming agent was detected in the water supply.
Grand Prairie citizens queued up on 8/3/2024 to collect water from a distribution center set up in the city hall, after being told not to use their usual water supply, according to Fox 4.

In a post on Facebook by the city’s Municipal Government at 9 p.m., authorities said, “Crews are currently investigating the issue and working to isolate the affected area. If you live north of I20 in Grand Prairie, please avoid using water other than for flushing until further notice. The City will have bottled water distribution stations.”

Graywater, which is the relatively clean wastewater from sinks, showers, and laundry, offers a practical solution for water conservation. Instead of being discarded, graywater can be reused for non-potable purposes like landscape irrigation and toilet flushing. By recycling graywater, we reduce the demand for fresh water, decrease the strain on sewage systems, and lower water bills. This sustainable practice not only conserves a valuable resource but also contributes to environmental protection by minimizing the amount of wastewater entering treatment plants.
Additionally many municipal water supplies offer rebates or discounts for installing a graywater system. Consider a graywater system for your home, and reap the befits of having “free” irrigation water for your plants.

SOURCE: National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA).

System Assessment Inspection

We provide inspections for the following systems:

• Rainwater harvesting system
• Graywater reuse system
• Drainage system

We will provide a report which documents the system’s current state and what maintenance is required. We can also provide a system demonstration with you.

Inspections start at $250

Water Testing & Analysis

We can provide water testing and analysis for rainwater systems that are used for potable purposes. These tests range from simple bacterial presence to full chemical composition, depending on your exact needs.

Water testing starts at $150

Interested in more information?  Call 512 490 0932 or email [email protected]

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