CONSERVATION

 

Planting Trees: The first five years

Tree Resources Handout

Tree Decision Checklist

Spring into Summer Sustainable Gardening Webinar

5 Ways to Conserve. See what you can SAVE.

1. Water your lawn only when it needs it. If you leave footprints when walking across the grass, it’s time to water. SAVE: 750 to 1,500 gallons a month
2. Wash your car using a bucket of soapy water instead of letting the hose run. Use a positive shut-off nozzle. SAVE: 150 gallons per car wash
3. Use a broom or rake instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks. SAVE: 150 gallons each time you sweep or rake
4. While waiting for hot water, capture running tap water for later use on household plants or in your garden. SAVE: 200 to 300 gallons a month
5. Run only full loads in the washing machine or dishwasher. SAVE: 300 to 800 gallons a month

Leak Facts

• 10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day
• Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 10% on their water bills.
• The average household’s leaks can account for more than 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year.

Wise Water Use

We are constantly looking for ways to ensure water is available for future generations. Part of that commitment includes helping our customers understand what they can do to help. We do that in a variety of ways: in customer bills, in our newsletters, and here on our website.

By using the tips below, you can make water conservation a part of your daily routine and also save water and money. With some small changes, you can be a part of this commitment while at the same time, help lower the cost of your water bill.

Outside your home

• Lawn watering uses a lot of water. Water your lawn only when it needs it. An easy way to tell if your lawn needs water is to simply walk across the grass. If you leave footprints, your lawn may be thirsty! Generally, lawns only need an inch or so of water per week during the summer months. Water your lawn wisely by

- Making the most of your watering by watering in the early morning. As much as 30 percent of water can be lost to evaporation by watering during midday.
- Planning for fewer, deep-soaking waterings to encourage deep root growth and stronger turf.

• Set your lawn mower one notch higher to make your lawn more drought-tolerant.
• Use drip irrigation hoses to water plants, and water in the early morning or evening.
• Consider using porous pavement (gravel is a good example) instead of asphalt for driveways and walkways, the rain will soak into the soil instead of running off and contributing to erosion.
• Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your sidewalk, driveway, or patio.
• Plant appropriately for your local climate. Check with local nurseries for non-invasive, drought-tolerant plants.

Inside your home

• Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are full. If you have a water-saver cycle, use it.
• Adjust the water level of your clothes washer so it matches your load size.
• Regularly check your toilet, faucets, and pipes for leaks with our free leak detection kits. If you find a leak, have it fixed as soon as possible. 
• Check your water meter before and after a one-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter changes at all, you probably have a leak.
• Consider water and energy-efficient appliances. Products and services that have earned the WaterSense label have been certified to be at least 20 percent more efficient without sacrificing performance. The USEPA reports that EPA-certified Energy Star washing machines may use 35% less water per load. Water-saving showerheads, toilets and faucet aerators can also help cut your water usage.
• Insulate exposed water pipes with pre-slit foam insulation. You’ll enjoy hot water faster and avoid wasting water while it heats up.
• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes in the sink.