Outdoor Water Conservation

Outdoor water use is a large proportion of total water use from public water supplies, so using less water outside can make a big difference when our reservoirs are low.  You save money and can save time also by watering less.

Water conservation also reduces municipal water and wastewater treatment costs and facility needs.  Using less water outside also helps reduce surface runoff that can convey pet waste, fertilizers, and other pollutants to nearby waterways. 

Tips for saving water on landscaping in general:

  • Use nozzles on your hoses so water only flows when and where you want it to
  • Use native and drought-resistant plants
  • Water in the early morning or the early evening to reduce water lost to evaporation
  • Use stormwater instead of regular treated water for irrigation by connecting a rain barrel or cistern to one of your house’s gutters.

If you have a lawn, read on!

  • Plant more trees and bushes in your yard, and let natural areas replace lawn areas
  • Irrigate lawns wisely! Most need only one inch of water a week. The online Turf Irrigation Management System (TIMS)  tool uses real-time weather data to help you figure out how much water your lawn needs.

Additional Resources

Make sure you check with your local government about water restrictions that may be in effect.

A website with lots more tips on outdoor water conservation

Your local cooperative extension office can provide more information on rain barrels and other outdoor water conservation tools.