As we celebrate Highlands Ranch Water’s 45th anniversary, we’re reflecting on key moments that shaped our commitment to sustainability. One of the most impactful milestones came in 2003, when we implemented our water budget based billing system, an approach that continues to guide conservation efforts today and is especially relevant as we face ongoing drought conditions this year.

In May 2003, Highlands Ranch Water (known as Centennial Water at the time) introduced a permanent change to its water and wastewater rate structure that significantly strengthened conservation across our community.

This shift followed a historically dry year in 2002, marked by record-low snowpack, high temperatures, and minimal precipitation. Recognizing the need for a more sustainable, long-term solution, Highlands Ranch Water adopted water budgets designed to encourage efficient water use not only during drought, but every year. The district was the first in the state to implement this innovative, conservation-focused rate structure.

Water budgets provide an indoor and outdoor component. The indoor residential component is based on average wintertime usage. The outdoor component provides enough water to maintain healthy landscapes during the irrigation season, without being excessive. Progressively higher tiered rates over the allotted budget serve to encourage conservation.

The results have been significant. Since implementing water budgets, residential water use in Highlands Ranch has decreased by approximately 20%, even as the community continued to grow. This long-term reduction highlights the effectiveness of water budgets in making conservation a community norm and not just a temporary response to drought.

Today, after more than two decades of declining use, overall consumption has begun to level off. In response, Highlands Ranch Water is renewing its focus on conservation through expanded outreach and education efforts. By encouraging sustainable, long-term water-saving practices both indoors and outdoors, we aim to build on the success of the past and ensure a resilient water future for our community.

Highlands Ranch Water’s conservation program now offers several different rebates, ColoradoScape garden templates, a plant finder, and educational events throughout the year with the goal of encouraging water-wise landscaping in the community.