energy

Dumas, Texas has implemented a variety of measures to enhance energy efficiency. The city has invested in LED streetlights, reducing municipal energy consumption significantly. Local businesses are encouraged to participate in the 'Dumas ECO-nomical program', which offers incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. The utility company provides home energy audits and rebates for residents who install energy-efficient appliances. Additionally, Dumas has seen a growth in solar panel installations among homeowners, assisted by federal tax credits. Dumas High School's new building was designed with energy conservation in mind, featuring automated HVAC systems and high-efficiency lighting. The city's cogeneration plant, which produces both heat and power, utilizes natural gas, contributing to a cleaner energy mix. Furthermore, wind farms in the surrounding Moore County area contribute renewable energy to the grid, bolstering the city’s sustainability efforts.

water

Water conservation is a critical issue for Dumas, given its location in the drought-prone Texas Panhandle. The city has implemented a tiered water pricing strategy to encourage conservation among residents, with higher rates for greater water use. Dumas also offers a rain barrel rebate program to promote water reuse. Landscaping regulations encourage xeriscaping, reducing the need for irrigation. The city's state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant employs advanced filtration technology to ensure water is cleaned efficiently before being returned to the environment. Farmers in the area are encouraged to use drip irrigation to minimize water waste in agricultural practices. Dumas’s 'Water-Wise Education Program' in schools informs the next generation about the importance of water conservation. The city's infrastructure has been upgraded to fix leaks and prevent water loss, ensuring a more reliable water supply to the citizens.

transportation

Dumas is committed to improving transportation efficiency within the city. The Dumas Economic Development Corporation promotes the use of alternative-fuel vehicles, offering incentives for businesses that switch to cleaner fleets. The city has several charging stations for electric vehicles as part of its initiative to support sustainable transportation. Public transit in Dumas, although limited, focuses on being accessible and efficient for its users. Recent road improvement projects have targeted congestion, with the addition of roundabouts and better traffic signal coordination. Bike lanes have been added in some areas of the city to encourage cycling. The city also participates in regional planning efforts to coordinate transportation policies and investments effectively. The ‘Safe Routes to School’ program encourages walking and cycling among students, reducing short-distance car trips and fostering a culture of active transport.

waste

Dumas has adopted a proactive approach to waste management, focusing on reducing landfill use and encouraging recycling. The city provides curbside recycling services to minimize waste and hosts yearly hazardous waste disposal events. A 'Zero Waste Dumas' initiative aims to educate residents on reducing waste through composting and repurposing materials. Local businesses have adopted environmentally friendly practices, such as using biodegradable packaging and reducing single-use plastics. Dumas's solid waste department works closely with schools to teach children about the importance of recycling. The city's landfill has been upgraded with methane capture systems, which not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also provide a source of renewable energy. Additionally, the public works department has a 'bulk waste' collection service, incentivizing citizens to dispose of large items responsibly rather than through illegal dumping.