Released July 3, 2008

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Whether attributed to climate change, a hot summer or the rising cost of gas and fuel, water prices are increasing, and the need to conserve is more crucial.

Finding ways to save water can seem tricky, but incorporating small changes over time will make a significant difference not only in the environment but your checkbook as well.

"You may think there aren’t many ways you can save water at home, but there are lots of ways you can reduce and eliminate water use," said Trish Ouei, Benton County extension urban storm water educator with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.

Working from the outdoors in, consider these tips when using water outside.

• First, check your water meter and bill each month to ensure you are paying only for the amount of water your household is using. This will also let you know how much your conservation efforts are saving in water and expenses.

• Next, follow nature’s lead when caring for your garden and lawn. For instance, adjust your lawnmower setting so the grass isn’t cut close to the ground. Longer grass blades shade root systems and hold moisture better so your lawn is healthier and requires fewer waterings. Also only water the lawn when it needs it. If you walk across your yard and you leave footprints behind, it’s time to water. If not, save the water for another day.

• Install rain barrels at your home’s downspouts and use the collected water to apply to flower and vegetable gardens. "It’s literally free water," Ouei said. "Instead of letting the rainwater rush off the roof and into storm drains, you can collect it and use it to supplement or replace a sprinkler system."

• Put some elbow grease behind a broom to clean sidewalks and driveways rather than hosing them off. Water savings equals 80 gallons.

You can save many gallons of water inside, too. Some ways you may already know, such as turning off the tap when brushing your teeth, shaving, washing your hands, face or dishes; and washing clothes. Wash clothes and dishes only when there are full loads. Take short showers.

Others ways to save water include:

• Composting fruit and vegetable peelings and cores rather than grinding them in the garbage disposal. Compost is excellent for the garden and lawn, and minimizing use of the garbage disposal will save thousands of gallons of water (as well as electricity and money).

• Installing low-flow showerheads and low-volume toilets, both of which are available at local hardware stores.

• Washing your face and brushing your teeth while in the shower.

• When freshening your pet’s water dish, pour the old water in potted plants. You also can use ice from a glass of tea or other beverage as well as any you’ve dropped on the floor to water plants.

• "This is something we’ve been taught since we were small, but it bears repeating. If you have a leaky faucet, get it fixed and save up to 500 gallons a month," Ouei said. "You’ll be amazed by how much money you save on your water bill each month by doing this one thing."

Regardless of the home situation - apartment, condo or house - there’s money to be saved by incorporating these ideas into your everyday habits.

For more information about water conservation, visit extension's Web site, http://www.uaex.edu, or contact your county extension agent. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture.

--30--

http://www.uaex.edu/news/july2008/0703conservation.htm

Contact: Lamar James, (501) 671-2187,ljames@uaex.edu