City of Scottsdale encourages smart water use as warmer months approach

As temperatures begin to rise across the Valley, the city of Scottsdale reminds residents that simple, everyday water-smart habits can help the community manage seasonal increases in water use while continuing to maintain Scottsdale’s high quality of life.

Like most desert communities, water demand in Scottsdale naturally increases during the warmer months as outdoor irrigation and landscape needs grow. The city’s water system is designed to meet these seasonal demands, supported by a diversified water portfolio that includes supplies from the Central Arizona Project, groundwater resources managed under Arizona’s assured water supply framework, and advanced water recycling and recharge programs.

At the same time, long-term drought conditions affecting the Colorado River continue to present challenges for water providers across the Southwest. Scottsdale has been preparing for these conditions for many years through infrastructure investments, strategic water management and planning.

As part of this ongoing approach, the city encourages residents to take part in voluntary demand management efforts, simple steps that help reduce unnecessary water use while keeping landscapes healthy and homes comfortable.

“Scottsdale has always taken a proactive approach to water stewardship,” said Elisa Klein, Scottsdale Water conservation program supervisor. “Small actions taken across our community can make a meaningful difference in managing water demand during the summer months.”

Ways residents can help manage water demand

Residents can help reduce unnecessary water use by:

• Adjusting irrigation schedules as temperatures change to match plant needs while avoiding overwatering.
• Watering landscapes early in the morning or in the evening to reduce evaporation.
• Checking irrigation systems for leaks or broken sprinkler heads.
• Using drought-tolerant or desert-adapted plants that thrive in our Sonoran Desert climate.
• Ensuring pools and water features are properly maintained to reduce water loss.

Outdoor irrigation accounts for 65-70% of residential water use. Monthly, modest adjustments to landscape watering schedules will more closely match the weather and can help keep demand in check without impacting landscape health.

A community approach to water stewardship

Scottsdale continues to monitor regional water conditions closely and works with partners including the Arizona Department of Water Resources and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to ensure long-term water reliability for residents and businesses.

These seasonal reminders are part of Scottsdale’s ongoing effort to promote responsible water use and ensure the city remains resilient in the face of evolving regional water conditions.

Residents interested in learning more about water-efficient landscaping, irrigation tips, and other water-saving resources can visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov/water.