With severe to extreme drought conditions across southern Utah, it’s important to conserve water both at home and in the field.
Below are the different ways people can save water in these instances:
In the home
Saving water in the home is simple when done right. An easy way to get started is by not wasting water. The Utah Rivers Council shares four ways to limit water waste inside the home:
- Fill them first – Only run the washing machine or dishwasher when full. Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run.
- Just add air – Install faucet aerators to reduce water flow inexpensively and easily.
- Tinker with your toilet – Repair leaky appliances like toilets and faucets.
- Keep it current – Purchase water-saving appliances and products or contact local water suppliers.
The Utah Division of Water Resources has more tips and statistics on conserving water.
In the field
It’s essential not to use excessive amounts of water while gardening. Regardless of the conditions, gardeners typically argue that they have too much or insufficient water. In Cedar City, the latter is often true.
A recommendation is to incorporate drought-resistant plants in the garden. These plants are better suited to withstand drought and need less water once established.
Using native plants is a similar solution when considering fluctuating degrees of rainfall. Many plants can tolerate periods of wet and dry soil, depending on the area.
If using moisture-loving plants, consider grouping them in a similar area to use less water by concentrating them in one spot.
Where water is going is important. Keep it on the plants and avoid it in sewer drains. Compost can help the soil retain more moisture and improve drainage in heavy soils.
Using organic materials like leaves or evergreen pines to mulch the soil is beneficial. It helps conserve the soil’s moisture, while also reducing the risk of erosion and compaction, suppressing weeds and improving the soil as it decomposes. A few inches is all that’s needed.
Planting trees, shrubs and groundcovers can help slow the flow of rainfall, keeping more water in the landscape for use.
For additional gardening tips, click here.
Author: Maddi Munro
Photo courtesy of Linus Mimietz
Editor: Chevy Blackburn
outdoors@suunews.net
