• Use showers instead of baths to conserve water

• Make sure you have no leaky faucets or toilets

• Place a bucket in the shower to catch water as it warms up and for run-off as you shower and use to water plants (a little soap in the water won’t hurt) – 1-3 gallons saved

• Install a low-flush toilet or place a toilet insert or weighted plastic bottle filled with water in the water tank

• Keep your shower time under 5 minutes – you’ll save up to 1000 gallons a month

• Turn off water as you brush your teeth and save 4 gallons a minute, 200 gallons a week for a family of 4

• Install a water-efficient showerhead

• Turn off water while you shave and save 100 gallons a week

• When washing dishes, fill sink with water to rinse rather than allow water to run

• Wash dishes by hand

• Select the proper size pans for cooking. Large pans require more cooking water than may be necessary.

• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap for a cold glass of water

• If you use the dishwasher, run it only when full and use the shortest cycle to save hundreds of gallons of water per month

• Collect the water you use for rinsing produce and use to water houseplants or use a partially filled sink instead to rinse produce

• Choose new water-saving appliances, like washing machines and dishwashers that save gallons of water per load

• Do not use running water to thaw food

• Match water level in washing machine to the size of the load and use shortest cycle

• Use environmental friendly detergents

• Use cold or warm water instead of hot

• Repair any leaks around taps and hoses

• Plant trees, shrubs, herbs, and flowers that are native and generally require less care and water.

• Do not water lawn on windy days or leave sprinklers on for the entire day

• Water outside in the early morning hours or in the evening to minimize water evaporation

• Collect rain water to water indoor plants – rain barrels that have faucets to collect water can be purchased at hardware and/or home stores or use buckets or garbage pail

• Check outside hoses, faucets, and sprinklers for leaks. Even a small drip can waste tones of water

• For hanging baskets, planters and pots, place ice cubes under the moss or dirt to give your plants a cool drink and eliminate water overflow

• Direct downspouts and other runoff towards shrubs and trees or collect for other use

• Water the roots, not the leaves, of plants and use compost or mulch