Water Conservation tips

Proper lawn care can save thousands of gallons of water each year

1. Use a sprinkler that throws big water drops, because small drops often evaporate before they reach the ground.
2. Shut off the watering system if it is malfunctioning or a storm is approaching and teach family members how to do this.
3. Use a sprinkler system for large areas of grass and drip lines for beds or small areas.
4. Install a rain shut-off device on your system so you don't waste water when it is raining.
5. Test the need to water by pushing a screwdriver into the ground: if it goes in easily, don't water.
6. To clean sidewalks and driveways, use a broom and not water, which will save 80 gallons of water each time.
7. To measure the amount of water your yard receives, put several empty tuna cans or other types out in different locations for one watering session and average the values.
8. To hold in moisture and protect grass, set your lawn mower on a higher setting; taller grass shades the root systems.

These tips came from the Falls River Company website. Check their website for more good tips on water conservation for inside and outside the home, http://www.fallswater.com/fwtips.html.