Weekly news and tips

Partnering for the environment: public meeting March 4
On Tuesday, March 4, Springs Utilities will host the first in a series of community discussions to address the role utilities play in preserving our community's environment.

Customers are invited to provide their input during this public meeting, which will cover current Springs Utilities environmental programs and highlight opportunities as we turn our attention to the future. Other topics include saving money through efficient use of services, helping the environment, a green economy and increased energy independence.

A recent Springs Utilities survey indicated environmental stewardship as a top priority when it comes to our community's utilities. Among 1,000 respondents, 70 percent of strongly support an investment in renewables, versus 20 percent who strongly support an investment in coal.

Event opportunity: Cover the March 4 community discussion with interviews from Springs Utilities staff and meeting participants. The interactive evening will include customer input, Q&A, presentations and online polling, with results available that evening.

Event details: Tuesday, March 4, 6 to 8 p.m., Pikes Peak Library Penrose Branch, Carnegie Reading Room, 20 N. Cascade Ave.

Household water leaks can have big consequences
Depending on its size, a household water leak could cost Colorado Springs Utilities' customers a few dollars, or thousands of dollars every month. For example:

- Leaky faucet -- a 1/32-inch leak: more than 6,100 gallons, or $19
- Faulty flapper on a toilet -- 1/16-inch leak: nearly 25,000 gallons, or $96
- Broken sprinkler line -- 1/8-inch leak: more than 13,100 gallons, or $510
- Failed water heater relief valve -- 1/4_inch leak: nearly 53,000 gallons, or $2,171.

Springs Utilities strongly encourages customers to diligently search for leaks inside and outside of their homes. Interviews with experts and toilet leak demonstrations are available upon request.