Spatial patterns and policy implications for residential water use: An example using Kelowna, British Columbia

• Collected average monthly residential water use for Kelowna, British Columbia.
• Found spatial lag for summer water use in GMM spatial regression.
• Spatial lag implies spatial spillovers from water saving innovations.
• Demonstrate total spillover contingent on spatial process and innovation location.
• Show that manipulating location of innovations can enhance aggregate effect.

The front yard makes a powerful visual statement about the occupants of the residence. As visible statements, yards are likely to induce a behavioral response on the part of neighboring residents. As an example, residents may strive to keep their yard as green and lush as their neighbors. For Kelowna, British Columbia, a highly significant positive spatial lag for summer water use implies some degree of spatial emulation in water using behavior. Other variables such as lot size, building size, assessed value, presence of a pool, etc. impact on water use as expected. The presence of a spatial lag implies a spatial multiplier for water saving innovations. If local water managers and policy makers can influence the spatial pattern of water saving innovations, they may be able to increase the size of the multiplier effect. Similar spatial policies may also be applicable to other socially influenced behaviors that leave a spatial signature, such as protecting ecologically significant habitats in urban areas.