The City of Steinbach would like to remind local residents to conserve water during the hot summer months.
What is water conservation? We hear the term used all the time, but what does it mean? Water conservation means doing the same with less, by using water more efficiently or reducing where appropriate, in order to protect the resource now, and for the future. Using water wisely reduces pollution and health risks, lowers water costs, and extends the useful life of existing supply and waste treatment facilities.
To ensure that we have enough cost-effective water for current and future Steinbach residents, we need to work at reducing the amount of water we waste daily. Here are some helpful outdoor water saving tips:
• Water your lawn and plants early in the morning or in the evening to avoid water loss due to evaporation. Water drops can also magnify the suns rays and burn plants during the heat of day.
• Try to water on calm days only. Wind can blow the water away from your plants or lawn – the sidewalk doesn’t need to be watered.
• Use a rain gauge to track rainfall. This will help you determine if you need to water your lawn.
• When you water your lawn, place an empty tuna can or other one inch deep can on the grass and only water until the can is full. Grass only needs about one inch of water per thirty minutes of watering, twice a week to stay green.
• Mulching around trees and plants reduces evaporation.
• Water your lawn only when it needs it. If it springs back after you step on it, it’s okay.
• Plant more indigenous perennials. They need less water.
• Deep soak your lawn and garden beds. One good watering is better than lots of surface waterings.
• Purchase a rain barrel and collect rain water to water your plants and shrubs.
• Sweep (instead of hosing) driveways and paths.
• Wash your car using a bucket. Use hose only for rinsing.
• Set your sprinkler so that it waters your grass, not your sidewalk or driveway.
• Regularly check hoses and taps for leaks.
• Cover your swimming pool when it is not being used to reduce evaporation.
• Fill a small plastic wading pool with water for children on a hot day instead of running a sprinkler for them. Squirt guns or small plastic containers filled with water are also effective, water-smart, ways to cool off.
• Use a bucket of water and squeegee to wash windows instead of a hose.
• Run decorative fountains only when you are around to enjoy them.
