Harwich Water Deparment - Outdoor Water Use

A Consumer's Guide to Water Conservation

The Outside Story

Landscaping is a major consumer of residential water. What can you do to reduce outside water consumption without sacrificing an attractive landscape?

1. Water in the early morning or evening. If you sprinkle your lawn under the hot midday sun, you'll lose as much as 30 percent of your water to evaporation.
2. Several short watering sessions are better than a single long one. Lawns can only absorb water so fast. It's better to water your lawn for three 10 minute session - with each session a half-hour apart - tan it is to water steadily for 30 minutes and cause run-off.
3. Better yet - Xeriscape™. Xeriscaping is water wise landscaping that stresses proper soil preparation, efficient irritation, and the use of water stingy plants. For homeowners, it means less maintenance, lower water bills, and a colorful decorative look. Contact your local greenhouse or water utility for more information

Other tip for reducing water usage:

1. Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways, walks and patios.
2. Keep grass at least two inches high to shade roots and hold moisture.
3. Aerate lawns regularly and use mulch around plants to reduce evaporation.
4. Water trees slowly, deeply, and infrequently to encourage deep rooting.
5. Visit WaterWiser¬, the water efficiency clearinghouse at www.waterwiser.org.