Proposed EPA guidelines pan water features

U.S. EPA is working on guidelines new homes must comply with to receive the organization’s “Water Sense” designation. The draft states that “builders shall not install or facilitate the installation of ornamental water features … Because these water features serve no functional or practical purpose, their water use is not considered efficient.” (Section 4.1.4)

Members of the International Professional Pond Contractors Association are asking for revisions that would exempt water features that incorporate a closed recirculation system, use a naturally occurring water source, sustain aquatic life, support wildlife or use reclaimed water. EPA is accepting public comments on the proposed guidelines until July 21.

-- Sarah

Comments

[UK Water Features]

I live a very stressful life, as i'm sure many people do, and i have tried many pills and drugs but hearing the sound of my water feature and seeing the calming effects of the water move around, is the best thing that alleviates my anxiety and worries. I was trying to persuade my friend but being a hardline scientist didnt want to know as theres 'no evidence' of this. Don't spose you guys know of anything research whys which shows the calming powers of water features? Many thanks in advance

[Bonnie Story]

I have seem permaculture garden water features that use household graywater. Running the graywater through little canals and over gravel beaches and waterfalls is how you clean and condition the water so that it's perfect for irrigating plants.

Many Americans seem to think that the water left after a shower or washing dishes is poison - actually it's very useful water. Every home should have a rainwater and graywater capture and re-use system. But, people will only get interested after the costs of clean water skyrocket.

[commonweeder]

Using graywater is a good idea. People just need to check local health regulations about what is legal, and work to make such use legal.

[suzq]

I'm assuming the new guidelines ban pools as well, no?

In certain areas of the country, this designation will be a valuable tool for city and regional planners. However, the EPA designation will only be for sales of new construction. It will be interesting over time to see if all these so-called "green homes" stay green as the years go by.

It will also be interesting to see if any localities pick these guidelines up to structure their local ordinances. How would you enforce something like that?