50 Ways to Save Florida's Water Supply

 
27.  Regularly check sprinkler systems and timing devices to be sure they are operating properly.  Install a  rain sensor device or switch, which will override the irrigation cycle of the sprinkler system when adequate rainfall has occurred.

28.  Raise the lawn mower blade to at least 3 inches.  A lawn cut higher encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the root system and holds soil moisture better than a closely clipped lawn.

29.  Avoid over-fertilizing your lawn.  The application of fertilizers increases the need for water.  Apply fertilizers which contain slow-release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen.

30.  Mulch to retain moisture in the soil.  Mulching also helps to control weeds that compete with plants for water.

31.  Plant native and/or drought tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees.  Once established, they do not need to be watered as frequently and they usually will survive a dry period without any watering.  Group plants together based on similar water needs.

32.  Do not hose down your driveway or sidewalk.  Use a broom to clean leaves and other debris from these areas.  Using a hose to clean a driveway can waste hundreds of gallons of water.

33. Outfit your hose with a shut-off nozzle which can be adjusted down to a fine spray so that water flows only as needed.  When finished, TURN IT OFF AT THE FAUCET instead of at the nozzle to avoid leaks. 

34.Use hose washers  between spigots and water hoses to eliminate leaks.

35.  Do not leave sprinkler or hoses unattended.  Your garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours, so don't leave the sprinkler running all day.  Use a kitchen timer to remind yourself to turn it off.

36.  Check all hoses, connectors and spigots regularly.

37.  Consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water. If your own car, park on the grass to do so.

38.  Avoid the installation of ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless the water is recycled.  Locate where there are minimal losses due to evaporation and wind drift.

























 

 39.  If you have a swimming pool, consider a new water-saving pool filter.  A single back flushing with a traditional filter uses from 180 to 250 gallons or more of water.

General Water Saving Tips

40.  Create an awareness of the need for water conservation among your children.  Avoid the purchase of recreational water toys which require a constant stream of water.

41.  Be aware of and follow all water conservation and water shortage rules and restrictions which may be in effect in your area.

42.  Encourage your employer to promote water conservation at the workplace.  Suggest that water conservation be put in the employee orientation manual and training program.

43.  Patronize businesses which practice and promote water conservation.

44.  Report all significant water losses (broken pipes, open hydrants, errant sprinklers) to the property owner, local authorities or your Water Management District.

45.  Encourage your school and local government to help develop and promote a water conservation ethic among children and adults.

46.Support projects that will lead to an increased use of reclaimed waste water for irrigation and other uses.

47.  Support efforts and programs to create a concern for water conservation among tourists and visitors to our state. 

48.  Encourage your friends and neighbors to be part of a water conscious community.  Promote water conservation in community newsletters, on bulletin boards and by example.

49.  Conserve water because it is the right thing to do.  Don't waste water just because someone else is paying for the bill such as when you are staying in a hotel.

50.  Try to do one thing each day that will result in a savings of water.   Don't worry if the savings is minimal.  Every drop counts.  And every person can make a difference.  So tell your friends toe Turn it Off and Keep it Off.   Water is the lifeblood of Florida. 

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