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El Paso Matters – Saving history, one drop at a time

Posted on July 23, 2025

Standing proudly since 1873, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site represents more than just El Paso’s architectural heritage – it’s a testament to how smart water management can preserve our city’s treasures for future generations.

Built by Joseph Magoffin, one of El Paso’s first mayors, the adobe mansion is the only historic house museum open to the public. But after 150 years, the beautiful adobe walls faced a serious threat – water damage from inefficient irrigation was causing salt buildup that made the historic bricks crumble and break apart.

The water-smart solution

Through El Paso’s WaterWise Business Rebate Program, the Magoffin Home transformed its landscaping approach. This program helps commercial businesses across El Paso become more water-efficient by covering up to 50% of equipment costs.

The results speak for themselves:

  • Upgraded water-efficient sprinkler systems using advanced spray bodies that use 20% less water
  • Reduced sprinkler heads by 24% across their two-acre property
  • Projected water savings of 241,000 gallons annually
  • Over 1 million gallons saved in the next five years

By reducing water waste, they’re not just saving money, they’re protecting irreplaceable historic architecture from further deterioration. The Magoffin Home’s transformation proves that water conservation isn’t just about utility bills, it’s about preserving what matters most to our community.

Magoffin Home State Historic Site in South Central El Paso. Photo by El Paso Water.

Your business can save too

The Waterwise Business Rebate Program is available to any commercial business in El Paso ready to make water-efficient improvements. Whether you’re preserving history like the Magoffin Home or simply want to reduce operating costs, we’re here to help you save water and money.

Program Benefits:

  • Up to 50% rebate on water-efficient equipment and processes
  • Maximum rebate of $30,000 per project
  • Priority given to projects with highest verifiable water savings
  • Long-term cost savings through reduced water usage

“Water conservation is a responsibility we should all share,” said Jennifer Barr, Water Conservation/TecH2O manager. “Through WaterWise, businesses can do their part while also saving money.”

Your business can receive rebates for a wide range of water-saving upgrades, including smart irrigation systems like those at the Magoffin Home, high-efficiency fixtures, air-cooled equipment replacements, industrial process improvements, and much more.

To qualify, you must be an El Paso Water customer in good standing for at least 12 consecutive months. Applications require equipment costs, projected water savings, and equipment lifespan details, but our team is here to guide you through the process.

Contact us today to learn how your business can join the growing number of El Paso companies reducing costs while conserving our city’s most precious resource.

Ready to start saving? Click here
El Paso Water conservation staff visits with Magoffin Home staff to inspect the irrigation system. Photo by El Paso Water.

The post Saving history, one drop at a time appeared first on El Paso Matters.

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