Water

Smart Irrigation

First National recently upgraded irrigation systems at Kansas, Texas, Colorado, and Omaha locations in an effort to reduce unnecessary irrigation. Smart irrigation re-times irrigation water to avoid watering during or soon after precipitation.

Landscaping

In Colorado, First National is taking active steps to work with its landscaper to plant low-water plants to reduce irrigation needs.

Landscaping Renovations

Landscaping renovations will be reviewed to include native plants and reduce turf in design plans. 

Water Harvesting Technology

First National has many opportunities to capture and reuse water. FNBO has begun an initial evaluation of water harvesting technology in corporate buildings with water features to see how alternative water sources can be used. Rain barrels and cisterns may allow First National to capture rainwater for irrigation. Fan walls also produce significant quantities of condensation, which could be captured and reused.

Sub-metering Irrigation

At first glance, most of First National’s water use appears to be domestic water use (64%), which is typically used in kitchens, break rooms, and restrooms. However, 66% of branches do not submeter irrigation and domestic water. As a result, First National cannot currently discern where water is used in these locations. Further, First National pays sewer fees for water being used for irrigation, which it would not have to do if irrigation was measured separately. First National has identified 29 locations without separate meters which are prime candidates to submeter due to relatively heavy water consumption.

Efficient Fixtures

First National plans to replace aging fixtures with more water efficient fixtures. There are a number of plumbing challenges that occur with low flow fixtures. Sanitation and cost-effectiveness will continue to drive these decisions.

Smart Irrigation

Smart irrigation has the potential to reduce water consumption by upwards of 10%. Paired with landscaping changes, irrigation efficiency is low-hanging fruit for reducing water use.