This project is seeking a ruling in regards to using the pond water on site for irrigation. The pond is feed by both storm water run-off and partially spring fed. The Owner wants to use the water (less than or equal to 50% of the amount of storm water dumped into the pond)to irrigate some of the vegetation on the property. The Owner will consult with the projects civil engineer to calculate this amount and we can submit if necessary.
The project would like to use a pond, which is fed by both stormwater and a spring, for on-site irrigation. The strategy of using an existing pond for stormwater management and irrigation provides many benefits including reduced stormwater management expenses and decreased use of potable water. In order to demonstrate credit compliance with WEc1.1, the project must demonstrate a 50% reduction in total water applied (TWA). As long as there is a 50% reduction, this credit will be earned regardless of the irrigation source. WEc1.2 provides an additional point when no potable water is used for irrigation. The definition of potable water for these purposes includes natural surface or subsurface water sources. However, WEc1.2 can be awarded provided the following three conditions are met: 1) The total volume of water drawn from the pond combined with the amount of water that is lost to infiltration and evaporation shall not exceed the amount of stormwater that enters the pond on a monthly basis. Document the stormwater coming in and going out (infiltration, evaporation & irrigation) on a monthly basis to confirm that the pond can meet the irrigation demand. If the pond cannot fill that need, the credit cannot be earned. 2) In every month of the year, the projected level of the pond shall not drop below historical average pond levels. 3) If there is a discharge out of the pond (into another water body), provide documentation that the removal of water from this pond does not compromise the integrity of the downstream water flow. Provide calculations to demonstrate compliance with each of the three conditions. Applicable Internationally.