Dog Ridge Water Supply Corporation Cuts Water Loss and Improves Financial Health

Since a board change, Dog Ridge Water Supply Corporation has reduced water loss by over half and increased its cash on hand more than twofold. The utility turned a $60,000 budget deficit into a net positive of nearly $145,000, largely due to a $1.2 million meter-replacement project and operational modernization. Water loss fell from approximately 40% a year ago to 17.9% this month, placing it just above the Brazos River Authority average of 17% and below the Waco region average of 20%.

The improvements stem from installing 1,977 new meters, which provide accurate usage readings and help the utility identify leaks, thereby increasing revenue. Remote monitoring capabilities also reduce the need for manual checks, allowing staff to concentrate on customer service and regulatory compliance.

Waco is facing pushback on its annexation proposal and concerns over a potential wastewater plant that could affect the Brazos River. McLennan County is also involved in local environmental projects, including wastewater treatment collaboration.