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With the abundant rainfall in Oregon, it can be
difficult to understand the need to conserve water. However, population growth
and the escalating cost of producing water and maintaining its quality dictate
that we use water wisely.
The average Lake Oswegan uses about 80 gallons of water
each day. You can make simple changes around your home that save hundreds of
gallons of water a week, which may represent significant financial savings in
your utility bills.
Here are several ways you can conserve this
precious commodity:
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Landscaping, Lawn
and Garden
Landscaping accounts for 20-50 percent of your water bill. |
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Water slowly and selectively during cool,
windless hours (early in the morning or late at night).
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Install a drip
or efficient irrigation system.
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Maintain a lawn height of 2-1/2 to 3 inches
to help protect the roots from heat stress and reduce the loss of moisture
to evaporation.
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Avoid planting turf in areas that are
difficult to irrigate properly such as steep inclines and isolated strips
along sidewalks and driveways.
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Aerate clay soils at least once a year to
help the soil retain moisture.
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Promote deep root growth through a
combination of proper watering, aeration, appropriate fertilization, thatch
(grass clippings) control, and attention to lawn height. A lawn with deep
roots requires less water and is more resistant to drought and disease.
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Mulch around plants, bushes, and trees to
help the soil retain moisture, discourage the growth of weeds, and provide
essential nutrients.
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Plant in the spring or fall, when watering
requirements are lower.
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When choosing plants, keep in mind that
smaller ones require less water to become established, and consider the use
of drought-tolerant plant materials (Xeriscape).
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Collect rain water in a barrel and use it
to water your garden. (Please note: this is not a legal practice in some
areas.)
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Use
porous materials for walkways and patios to keep water in your yard and
prevent wasteful runoff.
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For
more in-depth lawn care information, check out
Ecologically Sound Lawn Care For the Pacific Northwest
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Repair leaks
Leaks are the number one problem for water conservation and account for more
than five percent of all water use. Check faucets and hose connections for
leaks. Inspect pipes for pinhole leaks, leaking joints, etc. You can obtain
directions on how to check for leaks in your house. |
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Dishwasher
Do only full loads. Avoid using extra cycles whenever possible. Choose a
water-saving model. |
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Garbage disposal
Use the sink disposal sparingly. Better yet, compost your vegetable waste. |
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Drinking Water
Keep a container of cool water in the refrigerator instead of running the
faucet. |
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Car
Rinse your car once, wash from a bucket, and rinse quickly again. Be sure to
use a shut-off nozzle on your hose. |
Links
Regional Water Providers
Consortium ? Clackamas County Area Water Providers on saving water
A Partnership
for Water Conservation ? History of Xeriscape and its
seven principles
The Irrigation Association
? The irrigation industry's trade organization
Conservation/Water Organizations
Institutions/Research Organizations
U.S. State/Local
Conservation Pages
Disclaimer: Links to external sites are provided as a service and are not
endorsed by the City of Lake Oswego
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