Outdoor Water Conservation Tips

Even though we use water every day, it's easy to take it for granted. Just imagine how you would function without clean water. It's everyone's responsibility to conserve and protect water resources. The decisions and actions you make today truly affect our water resources for the future. The following suggestions will help you get in the habit of saving water in the great outdoors:

Use mulch around landscape plantings. Mulch will help eliminate weeds and hold moisture in the soil.

Select hardy plants that don't need much water. Native plants that are well adapted to your climate and soils will survive well without supplemental watering.

Water during the cool part of the day to avoid rapid evaporation.

Raise the mowing heights on your lawn mower. This promotes healthier grass that can better survive dry periods.

When watering is necessary, water slowly and thoroughly. If you notice puddles or runoff, turn water off and wait for water to soak in. Also be sure your sprinkler puts water where you need it-not on driveways or sidewalks.

Wash cars efficiently. First give the car a quick rinse, and then turn the water off. Wash one section of the car at a time and rinse that section quickly. Turn the water off each time.

Visit http://www.auduboninternational.org/  for more conservation tips.

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Tips for Keeping Water Clean

Keeping water clean begins with each of us-where we live, work and play, and with the simple daily actions we take. Here are a few ways you can make a difference to reduce pollution:

Plant trees, shrubs and groundcovers, especially around surface water.  Vegetation acts as a natural filter for runoff entering ponds, lakes or streams. Plants can also prevent shoreline erosion and keep soil from washing away.

Maintain a healthy lawn. A dense, healthy lawn can be an excellent filter for pollutants. Before you apply fertilizers, test your soil so you apply only what you need. Use the right fertilizer, at the right time and in the proper amount.

Clean up after pets. Dispose of pet waste in the garbage.

Compost grass clippings, leaves and garden waste.  When these materials are washed into streams and lakes, they decay, which in turn consumes oxygen fish and other aquatic animals need to survive.

Practice integrated pest management (IPM) around your home and garden. IPM reduces pest problems through a variety of cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical methods. Try to eliminate chemical use or keep pesticide use to a minimum by using them only when other methods are not successful.

Maintain your vehicles in good condition to prevent leaks such as oil or antifreeze.  Spilled motor oil, gasoline and lubricants can contaminate wells and streams.

Visit http://www.auduboninternational.org/  for more conservation tips.