Conserving Water During a Drought

According to the National Integrated Drought Information System, Maryland is in a drought that ranges from moderate to severe. You may be wondering how you can conserve water. Last month's Tip of the Month suggested installing a rain barrel in your yard. Here are some additional ideas.

For your lawn:

• For most situations where lawn is desired, turf-type tall fescue is a drought-tolerant choice. Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass go dormant in summer droughts. They will usually recover when drought ends and cooler weather returns. However, in severe drought, even dormant grasses can die. See the University of Maryland Extension’s website for more information

If you have a garden:

• Water trees (especially young trees), bushes, perennial flowers, and vegetable plants.
• Water in the morning or evening, not during the hottest points of the day. This will help reduce the amount of water lost to evaporation.
• Place mulch around trees and plants, this will assist the soil in retaining moisture.
• Sweep outside areas rather than using a hose to remove debris.

Inside your home:

• Use a dishwasher if you have one -- it is less water intensive than hand-washing.
• Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when you have full loads.
• Turn off the faucet when washing dishes and brushing your teeth.
• Consider installing a low-flow shower head. (And opt for a short shower rather than a bath.) You can also install an aerator on your kitchen and bathroom sink faucets.
• Check for leaks in appliances and pipes throughout your home.
• To check for a leak in your toilet, add food coloring to the tank. Check the toilet bowl an hour later. If you see color, there is a leak in your toilet.
• Avoid using your garbage disposal by composting food scraps. You can sign up for the City's food scrap program any time!