Do Your Part To Help Conserve Water

Select a non-phosphorus fertilizer. Much of the phosphorus can run into lakes, streams and ponds, causing the excess growth of aquatic plants and algae, and decrease water quality. Most soil in Indiana contains plenty of phosphorus already!

There are many organic fertilizers that replenish the soil with natural ingredients. Also composting is a great option.

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In a year's time, a faucet leaking a drop per second can waste up to 650 gallons of water, and the energy to heat it. Repair leaky faucets as soon as you notice the leaks.

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Instead of putting food down the garbage disposal, throw it in the garbage can. Doing this allows you to conserve the water that would have run while using the disposal.

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You can get more bang for your buck if you water your plants and lawn early in the morning or later in the evening. This off-hour watering technique lessens evaporation, which equals fewer gallons of water used.

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Use captured rainwater for irrigation or other appropriate uses, and repair all leaks in irrigation systems. This tip will also help you lower your water bill each month.
Rain gardens stop and slow rain water from entering storm drains and are aesthetically pleasing as there are many beautiful planting options.
Connect your downspouts to rain barrels. They store water run-off from your roof for use later. The look of the barrels range from faux terra cotta to repurposed 55 gal drums.

Bringing your car to a car wash will save gallons of water as compared to washing it at home. Most car washes recycle their water or treat it themselves before releasing it. You can also try a waterless car wash!

If a commercial car wash is not in the budget, wash your car at home in the grass. This will keep water out of the treatment plant and will water your grass at the same time.

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Install low-flow showerheads (those with a flow rate of less than 2.5 gallons per minute). The pressure will stay the same, but water use will decrease, saving water and energy costs.

Also turn off the water while you shave. If you take a shorter shower to reduce your water usage you can log that in the 1st & Green Challenge, http://www.1standgreen.com/profile/.

Refilling a pool or spa takes a lot of water! Be sure to cover your pool or spa when it is not in use to cut down on evaporation, which will lead to less frequent fill-ups, saving a lot of gallons over time.

If you have weeds in your lawn and garden, take some time to pull them out of the ground. This will ensure that water gets to where it needs to go - the plants and lawn. Weeds will soak up a portion of the water, forcing you to water larger amounts more frequently.
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Install moisture sensors on sprinkler systems, and set them to water the lawn or garden only—not the street or sidewalk. If possible, use soaker hoses and trickle irrigation systems.