Ways to Save Water

1. Place a bucket in your shower to catch extra water which you can use to water plants.

2. In the shower, turn the water off after you are wet and while you are scrubbing up. Turn it back on to rinse.

3. Okay, we're still in the shower - get a low flow shower head.

4. Only run the dishwasher and washing machines when you have full loads.

5. Either get a kit you can add to your present toilet to reduce the amount of water you use to flush or replace your toilet with an ultra-low flow version. Check out the dual flush toilets, they save the most water.

6. Hot water on demand saves water and energy.

7. Rainwater collection systems are a no brainer here in Florida. Start with a rain barrel or two for the garden and the lawn.

8. Plant native plants/xeriscape to avoid wasting water for irrigation.

9. Don't over fertilize your lawn. Fertilizer increases the need for water.

10. use mulch around plants and trees to help hold the moisture.

11. And for Pete's sake, use a broom or a blower if you must, but don't use a hose to clean walkways and driveways.

12. Do not use running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

13. Kitchens sink disposals require lots of water to operate properly. Get a composter as a way to dispose of food waste.

14. don't let water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving.

15. Check for leaky faucets and pipes and irrigation systems and have them repaired as soon as possible.

16. Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Put tissues, that small bug, etc. in the trash.

17. Make sure you know the watering rules and conservation guidelines required by your county water management district.

18. Consider hooking up to the reclaimed water system if it is available in your neighborhood.

19. Report leaks, broken fire hydrants, errant water sprinklers, basically any unattended water losses you see to... [continues]

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