Heat is reminder of need to conserve

THE OLYMPIAN | • Published August 11, 2009

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A stretch of hot, dry weather dating back to mid-May serves as a reminder that water supplies in South Sound are a finite resource, influenced by climate and weather.

As the Northwest enters the second half of summer when temperatures typically remain warm and rainfall is at a minimum, everyone needs to redouble their efforts to use water wisely.

State officials announced last week that many areas of Washington are experiencing droughtlike conditions. And more than 30 counties are registering a high to very high fire danger. Many streams also are experiencing low flows that threaten supplies for farmers and fish.

Conditions aren’t severe enough yet to warrant a drought declaration by the governor. But the governor has asked water providers to preach water conservation to their customers. And she has directed state agencies to lead by example in the area of wise water use.

Everyone can lend a hand by following some simple water-saving tips, which can also save money either now or in the long term. They include:

• Invest in plumbing fixtures that carry the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense label. Water efficient appliances and fixtures use up to 20 percent less water.

• Fix leaky fixtures around the home. A leak the size of a pin wastes up to 360,000 gallons of water per year.

• Install outdoor irrigation sensors and timers and save up to 50 percent of water loss caused by poor timing, run-off and evaporation.

• Water before noon and in the evening after 6 p.m. to reduce evaporation in the heat of the day. Consider reducing the size of the lawn, and landscape with drought tolerant plants.

Water conservation makes sense all the time, but especially in the heat of summer.