Arroyo Grande and Pismo Beach partnered recently on a new campaign, “Think H2O,” where residents can take a pledge to reduce water consumption by at least 10 gallons per day by using water more wisely. Here are some suggestions:
Take a five minute (or less) shower and turn off water while lathering, shampooing, brushing teeth or shaving. Savings: 7 gallons.
Turn off sink faucet while lathering your hands or brushing your teeth. Savings: 4 gallons.
Only operate the washing machine with full loads. Savings: 10 gallons.
Wash dishes with a plugged sink full of water instead of letting it run. Savings: 4 gallons.
Check for and repair dripping faucets and leaking toilets. Savings: 30 gallons.
Install an Energy Star labeled dishwasher and washing machine. Savings: 14 gallons.
Start a compost pile for food waste instead of using a kitchen sink garbage disposal. Savings: 10 gallons.
Water the lawn and landscape once a week or less during a drought. Savings: 20 gallons.
Water the lawn and landscape in the early morning or late evening to avoid unnecessary evaporation or wind drift. Savings: 20 gallons.
Use a broom (not a hose) to clean driveways and sidewalks. Savings: 20 gallons.
Cut down on car washing or use a commercial car wash. Savings: 15 gallons.
Replace grass lawns and overhead spray irrigated areas with drought tolerant and native plants, mulch, or artificial turf. Savings: 50 gallons.
