The Camino Real Regional Utility Authority (CRRUA) reminds customers that water usage during the next three months will set the wastewater rate on next year’s utility bill. 

“CRRUA calculates residential wastewater rates based on average water usage in December, January and February,” said CRRUA Executive Director Juan Crosby. “This is known as the Winter Wastewater Averaging Period.”

Crosby says customers tend to use less water during the winter months for outdoor irrigation, car washing and other activities. Because the wastewater system is only responsible for treating water that flows into it, this period offers a more precise reflection of indoor water usage.

“By averaging a customer’s water use during the winter, CRRUA can fairly estimate the amount of water entering the sewer system throughout the year to help ensure that wastewater charges are as fair as possible.  So, conserving water during these three months could result in lower wastewater rates in 2026.”

Crosby says winter water conservation also contributes to the sustainability of the community’s water resources.

The New Mexico Office of the State Engineer provides the following water saving tips.