Water Conservation Tips

Thurston County residents are in the middle of one of the worst droughts since the 1970s.  This means that we need to take it easy on the resources we still have in case the lack of precipitation continues into the fall and winter.  Here are some easy steps that we all can use to conserve water.

 Indoors -

• Repair leaky faucets/pipes.

• Replace older toilets with new, water efficient, models.

• Turn off the water while shaving or brushing your teeth.

• Make sure the dishwasher or clothes washer is full before running.

• Keep a jug of water in the refrigerator for drinking. (So you don't have to run the water until it gets cold.)

• Install low flow fixtures in sinks and showers.

• Start a compost pile to cut use of the garbage disposal.

• Purchase water and energy efficient appliances.

 Outdoors -

• Repair leaky hoses, sprinklers, pipes and couplings.

• Water your lawn and plants before 10 AM or after 7 PM.

• Water only once a week and only an inch of water.  Use a tuna can to determine when you've watered enough.

• Set sprinklers to water only the yard, not the driveway, house or street.

• Cut it high and let it lie.  Higher grass has longer roots to reach deeper for moisture.

• Remember, if your lawn goes brown over the summer, it will come back with the fall and winter rains.

• Use a shut off nozzle on your hose so it runs only when you actually need the water.

• Sweep your sidewalk and driveway instead of using the hose to wash them down.