Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Environmental Protection Department (EPD) is reminding residents to make sure automatic sprinkler systems have a functioning rain fall shut-off device.

Rain sensors (rain shut-off devices) are designed to bypass an automatic irrigation cycle when they receive enough rainfall.  The sensors are small devices wired to the irrigation system controller and are mounted in an open area where they are exposed to rainfall. All automatic sprinkler systems are required to have a functioning rain shut-off device.

Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) customers can get up to $75 in rebates for maintaining their systems and rain sensors when they hire a partnering contractor.

“If your automatic irrigation system is still turning on with all of this rain, it is likely broken,” said Alachua County Environmental Protection Department Water Conservation Coordinator, Stacie Greco. She continued, “Overwatering can damage landscapes, reduce groundwater supplies, and waste money.”

EPD also recommends replacing irrigated areas with Florida Friendly Landscapes without permanent irrigation.  This reduces water use and saves money.

For more information, visit the Alachua County Water Resources website, or contact Stacie Greco at 352-264-6829 or sgreco@alachuacounty.us.