Reducing Real Water Loss Through Satellite Leak Detection in Garland, TX

Serving Nearly 250,000 Residents Across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

The City of Garland, Texas operates a water distribution system serving approximately 246,000 residents through 113,000 active service connections and 972 miles of water main. As non-revenue water (NRW) increased from 5.9% to 21.1% over a five-year period, the city sought a more proactive approach to identifying and reducing real water loss across its aging infrastructure.

By partnering with ASTERRA and deploying satellite-based leak detection powered by L-Band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Garland surveyed its service area using advanced AI-driven analysis of L-Band satellite imaging capable of detecting potable water leaks up to 10 feet underground. The technology enabled utility crews to focus field investigations on high-probability leak locations, significantly improving efficiency and accelerating leak discovery.

The Impact:

• 186 verified leaks identified
• 232.1 million gallons of water saved annually
• $696,000 in annual cost savings
• 76% of identified leaks were non-surfacing
• 58% reduction in non-revenue water (NRW)
• Improved field crew efficiency through targeted leak investigations
• Insights that helped address aging infrastructure challenges and hydrant maintenance issues

Through a proactive, data-driven approach, Garland successfully reversed a rising water loss trend, reduced non-revenue water, optimized staff resources, and improved the management of its aging water infrastructure. By combining advanced satellite analytics with targeted field verification, the city achieved measurable operational and financial benefits while conserving valuable water resources.

Download the full case study to learn how ASTERRA helped Garland identify hidden leaks, reduce water loss, and improve utility performance through satellite leak detection technology.