Water Management
The University of Cincinnati's Utilities department works diligently to handle water in the most efficient and multi-functional manner possible. This is achieved through campus-wide conservation strategies like water detention, reclamation, and green infrastructure.
Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) occur when stormwater runoff & sewage overwhelm a municipal sewer system. They result in wastewater being discharged to natural waterways, thus polluting downstream environments. These events are common in many older US cities, including Cincinnati.
Water Detention
The University of Cincinnati works closely with the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (MSD) on infrastructure projects that prevent CSOs by utilizing a network of 25 stormwater detention tanks on campus. Water captured in these tanks is held until MSD's piping can adequately handle its release.
Water Reclamation
Some of the detained stormwater is now recycled by UC's utility plants, thanks to collaboration between UC Utilities and the College of Engineering and Applied Science to develop & install advanced water reclamation systems. In 2024, recycling stormwater for utility processes decreased UC's water use by over 20 million gallons. As a result of this collaborative project, UC Utilities is on track to reduce associated CO2 emissions by over 300 tons per year.
Green Infrastructure
Another way UC reduces the amount of stormwater runoff is through the use of green infrastructure on campus. In addition to landscaping initiatives, stormwater management is incorporated into the design of new buildings and renovations, accounting for water demand, detention tanks, and permeable surfaces.
Do Your Part to Conserve Water
Report leaks, dripping faucets, and running toilets. A dripping faucet wastes more than 600 gallons a year; a running toilet, more than 131,000 gallons.