We all know water is precious. And yet Americans waste our water supply.

 

Water consumption rates in the United States far exceed those of other developed and developing countries.  As population pressures on limited water supplies increase, it becomes more critical that we don’t waste water — especially water treated for safe drinking. 

 

A supply of clean, plentiful water is a basic need for any thriving community.  Water conservation is important, even in areas where supplies and treatment capacities are ample, because of the energy, chemical and labor  needed to treat both the drinking water and the resulting wastewater.  Water pumping, treatment and delivery are all energy intensive. And hot water uses even more energy.

 

We all pay for treating water for drinking as well as for expanding the treatment plant infrastructure for increased water demands.  So it pays to conserve water.

 

There are a variety of ways to use water wisely.  In your home, you can do simple things like turning off the water while you brush your teeth or shave.  Run your dishwasher or washing machine only when full.  Install low-flow shower heads and water efficient toilets. 

 

Much water is used in the landscape. To cut water use, do the following:

• Choose landscape plantings that will require less watering through the hot, dry summer months.

• Set mower blades 2-3 inches high to encourage healthier grass with deeper root systems that will tolerate drought and insect threats better.

• Use mulch and compost to better maintain soil moisture around your plants.

• Use a broom, rather than a hose, to clean driveways, sidewalks and patios.

• Use rain barrels to collect rain water from gutters or condensation from air conditioners. A spout at the base of the barrel dispenses water for watering plants or other non-drinking uses.

 

Many more water conservation tips can be found at the website http://www.wateruseitwisely.com under “100 Ways to Save Water.”

 

 Contributed by CREEC (Clark's Run Environmental and Educational Corporation)

Web site: www.clarksrun.org