2025 Winner: Water Resources in Frisco, Texas

Water Resources in Frisco, Texas

Frisco, TX – Merit Award, Water Management – Planning & Analysis

SUBMITTED BY

Ron Garcia, City of Frisco, TX

PROJECT OVERVIEW

  • Frisco, TX (25 miles north of Dallas) faces water management challenges due to extreme heat, drought risk, and limited precipitation.
  • Outdoor irrigation accounts for over 60% of the city’s water consumption, leading to inefficiencies and waste.
  • Frisco’s population has grown from 33,174 in 2000 to over 230,000 in 2024.
  • The city reduced per capita water consumption from 299 to 175 gallons per capita daily (GPCD) through proactive programs, regulations, and educational outreach.
ROLE OF THE IRRIGATION CONSULTANT
  • Development and implementation of the Free Sprinkler Checkup Program.
  • Comprehensive rough and final inspections for new irrigation systems.
  • Evaluation of microclimating, pressure regulation, distribution uniformity, and runoff mitigation.
  • Use of advanced irrigation monitoring tools, including meter dashboards and drone imaging.
  • Installation and management of weather stations for localized watering recommendations.
  • Creation and delivery of resident-focused educational programs.
  • Enforcement of the city’s water management plan through monitoring, notifications, and penalties.
  • Development of innovative regulations, such as dormant-season watering restrictions.
  • Collaboration with experts to refine water conservation strategies.
SPECIAL FACTORS
  • Frisco’s rapid growth and severe climatic conditions require innovative water sustainability approaches.
  • Tailored ordinances aligned with inspection and education programs bridge policy and practical application.
  • Budgetary and time constraints, along with resident engagement and compliance, shape conservation efforts. 
  • Efforts aim to balance water conservation with ongoing urban development.