Drought still here, conserve water now

By Jennifer Walker-Wate

By Jennifer Walker-Wate
Water Resources Specialist - Lone Star Chapter
Sierra Club

Despite recent rains, Texas remains in the grips of a severe drought, making it hard for both people and wildlife.

While we can't control the weather, there are things that we can do everyday in our homes and businesses to help conserve water and ensure there is enough for people and the environment. Included below are some tried-and-true water-saving tips.

Every drop of water saved is important and until the drought ends once and for all - until the next one - water conservation is necessary. It all comes down to using only what you need:

• Only run the dishwasher or washing machine with a full load. If it is time to replace either of these appliances, check in with your utility about rebates for water-conserving versions and purchase those instead.

• Catch the condensation from AC units and use it in your yard.

Depending on how your air conditioner is programmed, it can produce gallons of water per day. Catch that water in a bucket and put it on your garden, shrubs, and trees.

• Turn the water off when brushing your teeth. This simple step can save up to eight gallons of water per day.

• Fix leaky faucets. Leaky faucets can waste up to seven gallons of water per day. For those living in the city, check for leaks at home.

Read your water meter and avoid using water for two hours. Read the meter again after this period. If the amount is different you have a leak.

• Fix running toilets. Running toilets can waste a lot of water.

Fix these leaks as soon as you find them. Check with the manufacturer of your toilet for the proper replacement "flapper" to ensure maximum efficiency.

• Inspect irrigation systems. Have your system inspected by your water utility or a certified irrigator to make sure it is operating correctly, identify any problems and help you set it to run more efficiently.

• Install faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads. These water saving devices are cheap and easy to install.

• Install a high efficiency toilet. Toilets account for about 25 percent of water used in the home. Depending on the age of your toilet, you can save up to five gallons per flush by replacing older models.

• Make water conservation a whole-family activity. Challenge your family members to think of new ways to save water and to be part of the solution.

This list is by no means exhaustive; there are plenty more things that you can do to conserve water. Find out what works for you and go for it!

Pictured: Guadalupe River above Canyon