Want to take action on water? Here are our top three ways to support water conservation in Lethbridge.
Why?
Pesticides and fertilizers are not treated and removed from our water. Household chemicals can affect fish and downstream water users.
How?
Never pour chemicals into a storm drain. Avoid over-using chemicals or using them prior to storms in order to reduce run-off. Consider being part of the Yellow Fish Road program to inform your neighbours about storm drains.
Why?
Watering during the hottest part of the day increases evaporation. As much as 50% of the water can be lost, never reaching your lawn.
How?
Set a timer to control your watering. Watering more deeply but less often is better for your lawn.
Why?
A single dripping faucet can lose as much as 130 litres of water per year.
How?
Check indoor and outdoor faucets and appliances for leaks. Monitor your water bill for unusual reading and call a repair person promptly if needed.
Looking for even more ways to take action? Check out these other suggestions:
Convert your existing toilet(s) to a dual-flush toilets.
Install high-efficiency toilets.
Conduct a dye test to check your toilet for leaks.
Insulate and drain exterior taps before winter.
Use leftover drinking water to water houseplants.
Turn off taps while brushing teeth or shaving.
Take shorter showers – aim for 5 minutes.
Take smaller baths or take baths less often.
Install high-efficiency showerheads.
Collect the water that you run while warming up your shower and use it to water plants or your garden.
Always do a full load of laundry.
Wash clothes at a lower temperature.
Upgrade to an efficient front-loading washer.
Wash produce in the sink or a container rather than running water.
Keep a container of water in the fridge rather than running the tap for cold water.
Turn off the water while hand-washing dishes.
Replace your dishwasher with a high-efficiency model.
Wash vehicles in a car wash or with a pail (not a hose).
Use rain barrels to collect rainwater and water your garden or lawn.
Water lawns in morning and evening to avoid evaporation losses.
Fix leaks in hoses and irrigation systems.
Use a timer to control your irrigation system or sprinkler.
Replace your lawn or part of your lawn with drought-tolerant native plants (xeriscaping) or grow drought-tolerant plants in your garden.
Mulch garden plants and trees to help retain moisture.