CONSERVATION CORNER

SUMMER SHOWERS: NATURE'S CONTRIBUTION TO WATER CONSERVATION

We are very fortunate to live in a location that usually gets occasional thundershowers in late July and August. We can reap nature's harvest of substantial water conservation if we will just take the time to turn off our irrigation controllers and refrain from watering by hand until the soil dries out and our plants show signs of needing water again. Along with the free water, the cloudy days substantially reduce evapotranspiration, which extends the period of time before irrigation is needed. Keep in mind that half of the water use during the summer months is used outdoors.

Nonetheless, the drought did not end with these showers and it will still take several wet winters to replenish our aquifers. We have heard that the equatorial Pacific Ocean is beginning to show signs of warming which could lead to El Nino conditions. So far, it's too early to tell whether or not our weather will be affected. However, we will be watching this situation closely and hoping for a wet winter.

For now, we need everyone to take advantage of every opportunity to conserve water. The recent rains have presented us with an opportunity. Please take advantage of it! Remember that your water provider has many suggestions for using water efficiently. If you are not sure how to reduce your water consumption, call us for some suggestions. The DWP has recently moved its web site to www.bbldwp.com (you're here). This site contains lots of information and recommendations for conserving water. Use this site to learn how you can contribute to the community's water conservation efforts.

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