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Need some ideas of how your family can cut down on water consumption? Check out the list below for some quick (and easy!) water-saving tips.

  1. When washing dishes by hand, don’t the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water.
  2. Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they’re full and you save 1,000 gallons of water a month!
  3. Plant during the spring or fall when the water requirements are lower.
  4. Instead of washing down your driveway, sweep it! Save 80 gallons of water every time.
  5. Check for leaky faucets throughout your house and outside. You could save 140 gallons a week.
  6. Time your shower to keep it under five minutes. You’ll save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
  7. Install low-volume toilets.
  8. Cleaning the fish tank? Save the used water for your plants! The water is rich in nitrogen and phosphorous, providing you with a free and effective fertilizer.
  9. Turn faucets off tightly after each use.
  10. Before lathering up, install a low-flow showerhead. They could save your family more than 500 gallons a week!
  11. Turn off the water while you brush your teeth and save four gallons a minute. That adds up to 200 gallons a week for a family of four.
  12. Set a kitchen timer when watering your lawn or garden with a hose.
  13. When you have ice left in your cup from your favorite take-out spot, don’t throw it in the trash, water a plant!

Adapted with permission from Water Use It Wisely, www.wateruseitwisely.com

Thirsting for more? Check out these web sites to share some more water fun with your kids.

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