60% of Sanibel's water used towards irrigation, according to city's water supplier

SANIBEL, Fla. —

Sanibel officials are urging residents to conserve water as the city faces an extreme drought, with most water usage going towards irrigation.

When residents use hoses or turn on sprinklers to keep their lawns green, that water comes from the Island Water Association. The city said a majority of the water goes toward irrigation, not for drinking.

"We have seen after Hurricane Ian, we've had some particularly higher demand months, as some of our residents are bringing in and redeveloping their landscape," said Diana Wilson with the Island Water Association.

Wilson noted a new technology helping out.

"Smart irrigation systems. That is a new technology where wind sensors and moisture sensors really will help prevent overwatering. These are ways that our members can not only conserve water, maintain beautiful landscapes, but also save money," Wilson said.

The city suggests one way to save water is by having only native plants.

"Native vegetation typically uses less water than non-native vegetation," said Sanibel Mayor Mike Miller.

For the first time, the city is also participating in My Water Pledge, a national competition for water conservation.

"They reported recently that they think 60% of the water they produce goes for irrigation, either of plants or turf or something. That's probably not a very healthy statistic and something we need to do better as a community," Miller said.

The mayor is hopeful the city will rise to the challenge.

"I'm quite hopeful because our community pretty much is dedicated to environmental protection," Miller said.

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