Mission 4 Monday

CONSERVE WATER

Carefully conserving water lessens the damaging effects of droughts.

Droughts can decrease food production, raise food prices, increase fire hazards, as well as worsen soil erosion and insect infestation.

Droughts are a normal part of climate cycles. So, it's crucial to conserve water now to minimize the effects of drought later.

Water conservation needs to be a higher priority for Americans. People in the United States use more water per person than citizens of any other country. At a pace of almost 1,300 gallons of water per day, Americans are quickly consuming a precious resource.

Only 1 percent of the world's water is available for human consumption. Some water conservation experts predict that our Southwestern states will face severe freshwater shortages by 2025.

Highest volume water uses inside the home include:

• Toilet: 26.7%


• Clothes Washer: 21.7%


• Shower: 16.8%


• Faucets: 15.7%


• Leaks: 13.7%

It's so simple to conserve water and dramatically help the environment... and your checkbook.

Remembering to conserve water throughout your daily routine will eventually turn into such an ingrained habit that you won't even have to think about it.

You can start water conservation in your home today. Here are some tips to save water:

• Don't let the water run needlessly when washing dishes, shaving, or brushing your teeth.


• Take shorter showers... keeping showers less than 5 minutes can save up to 1,000 gallons per month.


• Plug the bathtub before turning the water on, and then adjust the temperature as the tub fills up.


• Fix leaky faucets: Just one drip a second can waste 2,000 gallons of water per year.


• If practical, try to run the dishwasher or washing machine only when completely full.


• If you live in an older home, consider replacing your plumbing with low-flow fixtures and low-flush toilets.


• Water your lawn only when necessary and consider landscaping with native plants adaptable to your climate's conditions.


• Place a bucket in the shower to catch excess water to later water plants. This also works when washing dishes or vegetables in the sink.


• Use the garbage disposal minimally and compost instead.

More information on water conservation and other tips to help save water are available from:

• American Water & Energy Savers


• Water: Use It Wisely


• Heifer International