5 Ways to Conserve Water this Summer

While it's easy to associate hot summer months with an increased use of cool, fresh water, there are many ways to beat the summer heat without wasting this valuable resource. Check out a few below!

  1. Embrace Summer Rain (and stormwater!) Install a rain barrel or rain garden to capture stormwater runoff. A rain barrel collects rainfall that can be used to water plants, wash your car, and more. A rain garden intercepts, treats, and infiltrates stormwater while creating a habitat for wildlife.
  2. Sweep Sidewalks and Patios When preparing to enjoy your outdoor areas, opt to cleanup by using a broom to brush any natural dirt or debris back onto your lawn instead of cleaning areas with a hose.
  3. Place a Cover Over Your Pool If you have a pool at home, place a cover over when it's not in use to help prevent evaporation
  4. Practice Cut It and Leave It Lawn Care Let grass clippings fall into the soil rather than bagging them and keep grass at a length of 2.5-3.5" high. This method keeps solid shaded from the sun and keeps roots cool, requiring less water to maintain. 
  5. Check Outdoor Fixtures for Leaks The average household's leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year and ten percent of home have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day, reports the US Environmental Protection Agency. As outdoor activities commence, be sure your hose and any outdoor fixtures are not leaking any extra water. (Take stock of your indoor fixtures, too!)