From the North Texas Municpal Water District (NTMWD):
North Texas doesn’t suffer through the dog days of summer. Here, it’s more like the panting-wild-wolf days of summer. Despite the scorching temperatures, you can save water, maintain a nice lawn and even increase your home value.
The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) provides water to 1.6 million people north and east of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and is determined to make our water last. In addition to adding new sources of water to the area’s primary supply, Lavon Lake, NTMWD is asking people to use these simple tips to conserve.
- Operate your sprinkler system manually for more control over when and how much you water. To keep your lawn green, you want to apply 1 to 1½ inches of water every five days. That’s the depth of a tuna can, so set one out and when it’s full, you are through watering.
- Use a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses rather than sprinklers to water trees, shrubs and garden beds.
- Check your sprinklers often for directional aim and broken heads to keep from watering sidewalks and driveways.
- Leaky indoor faucets tend to get your attention, but don’t forget to check outside spigots, pipes and hoses for leaks.
- Plant water-wise plants native to Texas. You’ll find links to sites that can help you choose at www.WaterIQ.org, the home of Texas’ water conservation campaign.
NTMWD was the first water utility in the state to implement the Water IQ campaign, which provides easy tips to help Texans use water efficiently.
“We know our customers can make a difference when they set their minds to it,” said Jim Parks, NTMWD executive director. “During our last severe drought, our customers cut consumption an estimated 200 million gallons a day. We’re lucky to have a full reservoir this year, and we need to make sure it lasts.”
The Environmental Protection Agency reports nearly a third of the water homeowners use is outside, and half of that water is wasted. Conserving water carries a bonusbuilding a history of lower water bills can add to the appeal of your home.
To subscribe to receive monthly tips e-mailed directly to your Inbox, visit www.WaterIQ.org, select “North Texas Municipal Water District” from the drop-down menu, and then look for the signup form.
Water IQ is a Licensed Service Mark of the Texas Water Development Board.
