South Florida has experienced significant development in the last decade which has put pressure on our amount of available water in our aquafers that are used for irrigation and drinking. Approximately 50% of the water that is consumed is for irrigation. In addition, we have had lower rainfall amounts than normal over the last few years. The result has been chronic water shortages to various degrees.
Tips for water conversation:
Lawn/Sprinklers:
- To reduce evaporation loss, water lawns during early morning hours when temperatures and wind speed are lowest.
- Lawns only need watered every 5-7 days during the summer and 10-14 days during the winter.
- Position sprinklers to water the area intended, not streets, driveways or sidewalks.
- Use water-efficient methods of irrigation, such as micro/drip irrigation or soaker hoses.
- Check sprinklers and timing devices regularly to make sure they are working properly.
- Raise lawn mower blades to at least three inches. This encourages deeper root growth which holds moisture better.
- Do not over fertilize the lawn, it promotes the need for more water.
Landscape:
- Use compost to help maintain moisture in the soil.
- Plant native or drought tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees.
Hoses:
- Use a broom to clean driveways, sidewalks or any other type of pavements instead of water.
- Use a shut-off nozzle on the hose to regulate the amount of water. Also, remember to turn off the water at the spigot to avoid any leaking.
- Use washers between the hose and spigot to avoid leaks.
For more water conversation tips, visit South Florida Water Management District’s website or Lee Counties water conservation page.