Green Tip of the Month
Reducing Your Water Waste
The National Weather Service forecasts an above-average temperature for July, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. Furthermore, the Seattle area has experienced approximately 6 inches less rainfall than usual, alongside a lower-than-normal snowpack. To address these issues, I would like to share some tips on reducing water waste while watering plants and containers.
When waiting for your faucet(s) to produce hot water, use a pitcher or container to collect the water instead of allowing it to go down the drain. Additionally, you can utilize cooled leftover water from boiling pasta or potatoes for your outdoor pots and garden plants. Water from salad spinners can also be used effectively for indoor plants. These measures, though small, contribute incrementally to reduced water consumption.
Moreover, it may be beneficial to invest in one or more water barrels to place under outdoor drains that collect water from roofs and downspouts. As noted by John Harrod of the Delaware Nature Society: “Rain barrels help to lower your water bills, particularly in the summer months by collecting thousands of gallons of free water a year that you don’t have to buy! Rain barrels are also important for our environment because they help reduce water pollution by decreasing the amount of stormwater runoff reaching our streams and rivers. The average rainfall of one inch within 24 hours can produce more than 700 gallons of water that run off a typical house!” This collected water can be utilized for landscaping purposes.
We acquired our rain barrels locally and had them installed for a nominal fee. A hose is connected to the barrel in a dry area on the side of the house, and we use it as required. Annual cleaning is recommended, but overall, rain barrels are an excellent method to conserve water and reduce water bills.
Enjoy your summer,
Jeannine Sielinski