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Conservation Tip of the Month
Don’t wait until the new year to make a water-saving pledge.
Try these monthly tips to achieve your most water-efficient year yet.
January
Start the New Year with keeping your home leak free. Did you know that the average household leak can waste more than 10,000 gallons a year? Save water and conduct a leak inspection of your water using appliances and fixtures in your home today. Don't forget to check for leaks outdoors. Look for broken sprinkler heads to start saving today.
To learn more about how to look for leaks visit Do You Have a Leak?
February
Drip irrigation is the most efficient way to water your plants because it reduces evaporation losses by watering on the ground near the plant. Now is the best time to plan your drip system when the weather is clear and cool. You won't have the rush of setting it up in the summer when plants need it right away.
Start saving today and you may qualify for a landscaping rebate of up to $200. For more information on the landscaping rebate and other rebates the District offers visit our Rebate Program.
March
What better reminder to check all household plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks?
Fix a Leak Week is an annual program promoted every third week in March to check for leaks.
More than 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted each year in U.S. homes from minor water leaks. Fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 90 gallons or more per day. Keep your home leak-free and participate in Fix a Leak Week by checking your household for leaks today.April
Spring is a great time to check your irrigation control settings for water saving opportunities. You can save thousands of gallons of water in your landscape by properly setting your irrigation controller to water your lawn with the water it needs and minimize water waste. Timing is everything when watering your lawn efficiently and eliminating runoff. For information on how to set your controller.
May
Save your plants from the heat this summer and add mulch around shrubs and flower beds. Mulch reduces water evaporation from the soil and reduces weeds. Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to keep your plants roots cool throughout the summer. Plants well insulated by a layer of mulch generally require less water.
June
In the summer months, watering your yard can account for 60% of your total water use. Using less water outside can save tens of thousands of gallons of water. Consider mowing the grass less often. Taller grass grows deeper roots that can reach moisture further down in the soil. Only reduce grass by 1/3 of its original height. Optimal length is between 2-4 inches, but varies for the type of grass.
July
Use a soak and cycle method to keep your lawn healthy in a drought. Water deeply, but infrequently to encourage deep roots and in cycles to eliminate run-off. Try watering in 3 cycles (one hour between each) for 4-5 minutes in each zone during your water window.
August
Did you know that every square foot of turf requires over five feet of water a year? California's yearly average rainfall only measures in the inches. Consider removing areas of turf that are only used for decorative purposes and use water efficient landscaping in its place. Choose native plants and apply mulch to the soil.
September
Transforming your yard can be challenging. The Water Saving Garden Friendly for the Inland Empire website provides valuable information on native plants, invasive species, pest management, composting, and how to find a professional landscaper. In addition, garden templates are available for your use and reference. These easy tips will provide a starting point for your conservation transformation project.