As proud EPA WaterSense partners, Central Arizona Project and CAGRD are continuously seeking ways to encourage conservation. This led to the creation of the Water-Efficient Construction Incentive Program (WECIP) three years ago. This popular program invites homebuilders in CAGRD’s Member Lands and select Member Service Areas to apply for rebates of $1,000 for each new house earning a WaterSense 2.0 certification.

CAGRD’s conservation philosophy encourages less member pumping, which translates to less replenishment. This reduces both member costs and competition for water supplies needed to complete replenishment. A home that is built to WaterSense certification uses 30 percent less water than typical new construction homes, bringing this philosophy into action.

CAGRD collects $2 per lot from the enrollment fees paid by developers to enroll their land as well as $2 for every acre-foot of excess groundwater reported annually by its members. This funds conservation efforts such as WECIP.

Each year since the program’s inception, all funds have been distributed. The fourth annual cycle is underway and there are $200,000 in rebates available.

Homebuilders building in any CAGRD Member Land and the Member Service Areas of Copper Mountain Ranch CFD, El Mirage, EPCOR San Tan (both Active Management Areas), EPCOR San Tan Anthem, EPCOR West Valley, Global Water – Farmers Water Company, Metro Water – Diablo, Sahuarita Water Company, Spanish Trail Water Company, the Town of Marana and Vail Water Company can learn more here.