The desert is blooming and there is always water when I turn on my tap,
so.. Why Conserve?
- Utah's per capita water use is 269 gallons per day (gpd) compared
to the Mountain States average of 241 gpd and the national average of
179 gpd. Only Nevada uses more water per capita (Div. of Water Resources
Dec. 1998).
- Our peak snow and rain fall comes during January through May, but
the highest demand occurs in July and August (Utah State University
Climate Center, 1998).
- Environmental impacts and goverment regulations place increasing limitations
on future water supplies.
- And just as importantly, conservation is usually the least-cost alternative
to a new water supply.
- Approximately 61% of Utah's residential water is used for outdoor
landscapes.
- A properly designed landscape that includes low water plants and trees
can be more water and energy efficient.
- Continuing growth and development will place increasing demands on
our current water supply.
- Even with reservoirs and other storage facilities, our summertime
use is straining our current water supply.
- New water resources and infrastructure will cost millions of dollars
in increased rates.
- New sources of water will require more treatment to meet water quality
standards.
- As a desert state we have an obligation to effectively manage our
limited water resources.
Most of the "escess" residential water used during summer is used outdoors
- for gardens and lawns, to wash cars, to hose down driveways, and even
to cool off the kids or the dog. We often double or even triple daily consumption.
By watering "right," you can maintain a healthy, beautiful landscape that
invites butterflies, birds, and creates a "backyard habitat."
- Water your lawn right - and that's at night between 8:00 p.m. and
8:00 a.m.
- Adjust your watering schedule as the weather changes to aviod overwatering.
- Aerate your lawn when needed so water soaks in freely. Spring or fall
is the best time to do this.
- Water your lawn separately from other landscaped areas... and water
only things that grow!
- Mulch your planting beds to minimize evaporation.
- Use a shut - off nozzle on the hose when you wash your car.
- Clean your driveway, patio and sidewalks with a broom instead of the
hose.
- Check for leaks around the house, including dripping faucets, running
noise in toilet, etc.
- Consider installing water efficient plumbing fixtures.
- Think about water and ways you and your family can manage it better.
You will benefit from these savings year around!
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