Wouldn't you like to save money and help protect Santa Barbara County's water resources? The water purveyors in Santa Barbara County have developed a Lodging Industry Water Efficiency Program that will help you do both! By using our in-room water efficiency cards, your property could save approximately $1.50 per occupied room per day according to estimates provided by the Green Hotels Association. Potential savings include the following:

• Lower Water Bills
  Improved water efficiency reduces water fees
• Reduced Energy Costs
  Using less heated water can reduce energy costs
• Reduced Wastewater Discharges
  Reduced discharges help reduce wastewater flows and postpone the need for larger treatment facilities
• Conserved Water
  Conservation is the least expensive source of new water supply for our growing community. Water not used is water saved for future use.

There are four components of our Program. First, our program provides in-room towel rack hangers that ask guests to consider reusing their towels to help conserve water. Guest participation in this program could help your property save on expenses associated with towels, detergents, water, labor, utilities and laundry.

Second our sheet changing table tent asks guests to consider leaving the sheets on their bed for their entire stay. Again, guest participation in this program could help you save on sheet, detergent, water, labor, utility and laundry expenses.

Our third card provides additional tips that guests can follow for conserving water during their stay. Ideas include reporting leaks to management, shutting off the faucet while brushing their teeth or shaving, taking short showers, and moderating use of the thermostat. Lastly, a training video explaining the program to your staff is also available in both English and Spanish.

In addition, your local water purveyor can provide a "water use survey" for your facility. A staff member will visit the site and survey the various ways that water is used within your facility and recommend ways that you can reduce water use and save money.

If you are interested participating in our conservation program and would like to receive the cards, video and associated materials for this program, please contact your local purveyor or the Santa Barbara County Water Agency at 568-3440.