This project includes landscaped area that will be served in its entirety with a permanent irrigation system connected to a dedicated reclaimed water distribution system. This reclaimed water comes from the local wastewater treatment plant and is blended secondary and tertiary treated water. Plants specified include mostly native species and drought resistant species that require minimal supplemental watering after an establishment period. Approximately 3% of the trees and palms are Magnolia trees and Citrus that are not native to the location. To serve these trees during the establishment period, a 1 in. potable irrigation line will be provided in two narrow courtyards with hose connections along one side of the hardscape in each courtyard for hand watering. These courtyards are also served with a permanent irrigation system connected to the dedicated reclaimed water distribution system. A backflow prevention device will be added per city requirements. While it is understood that this line could be converted to provide irrigation with potable water in the future, the owner has stated that they will only water the magnolias and citrus until they naturalize after which time the trees will receive supplemental irrigation with reclaimed water. Will this irrigation approach prevent the project from receiving attaining WE credit 1.2?
Your approach is not acceptable for either of the credit\'s compliance paths. 1) Water from a local wastewater treatment plant is not applicable to WE Credit 1.2. Intending to promote the use of site-sourced reclaimed water for irrigation (if at all needed), the credit requirements specifically state "captured rain or recycled site water" and thus disqualify water treated off site. Furthermore, the WEc1.2 ruling dated 1/20/04 stated that "using any form of municipal supplied water for irrigation would not meet the intent of this credit." Consider using your proposed non-potable water source for achieving WE Credit 2. 2) Hard piped underground irrigation lines are not acceptable as a temporary irrigation system during the landscaping establishment period. See WEc1.2 ruling dated 9/24/2003 for further explanation. The use of hose connections is an acceptable strategy (see WEc1.2 ruling dated 7/10/03 for precedent allowing hose bibs).