(Keep in mind these measures are currently voluntary. During drought conditions outdoor watering
restrictions may be imposed, and therefore some of the following tips will not apply.)
Watering:
Detect and repair all leaks in irrigation systems.
Use properly treated wastewater for irrigation where available.
Water the lawn or garden during the coolest part of the day (early morning is best). Do not water on
windy days. Only water your lawn when it needs it.
Deep soaking the lawn every third day is more effective than lightly watering every day.
Water trees and shrubs, which have deep root systems, longer and less frequently than shallow-rooted plants
that require smaller amounts of water more often. Check with the local extension service for advice on
the amount and frequency of watering needed in your area.
Set sprinklers to water the lawn or garden only—not the street or sidewalk.
Use soaker hoses and trickle irrigation systems.
Install moisture sensors on sprinkler systems.
Planting:
Have your soil tested for nutrient content and add organic matter if needed. Good soil absorbs and retains
water better.
Minimize turf areas and use native grasses.
Use native plants in your landscape—they require less care and water than ornamental varieties.
Maintaining:
Use mulch around shrubs and garden plants to reduce evaporation from the soil surface and cut down on weed growth.
Remove thatch and aerate turf to encourage movement of water to the root zone.
Raise your lawn mower cutting height. Longer grass blades help shade each other, cut down on evaporation, and
inhibit weed growth.
Minimize or eliminate fertilizing. It requires additional watering and promotes new growth
that will also need
additional watering.
Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
Don’t run the hose while washing your car.
Tell your children not to play with the hose and sprinklers.
Check for leaks in pipes, hoses, faucets, and couplings.
Ornamental Water Features:
Do not install or use ornamental water features unless they recycle the water. Use signs to indicate that water
is recycled. Do not operate during a drought.
