Drought Conditions Persist, Residents Urged to Conserve Water

Broward is experiencing a drier than normal rainy season this year. Eastern parts of the County are under Stage 3 drought conditions, which is considered an extreme drought. The rest of the County is under Stage 2, considered a severe drought. Drought can be defined as a prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall. Broward urges its residents to practice good management of our water resources and demonstrate that "Water Matters".

In Broward County, landscape irrigation is only allowed two days a week, depending on address, and no watering is allowed between 10AM and 4PM. Odd-numbered addresses may water Wednesdays and/or Saturdays. Even-numbered addresses, or those who irrigate addresses within the same zones, may water on Thursdays and/or Sundays. Residences and businesses that use reclaimed water may water any day of the week. Here are some tips to help reduce your water use:

• Use native plants or other plants that require little supplemental irrigation.
• If watering with a hose, make sure it has a shut-off nozzle. Water slowly to reduce runoff and to allow the water to penetrate deep to the plant's roots. Water only things that grow. Adjust sprinklers so they are not spraying water on paved surfaces.
• Install and maintain rain sensors on your irrigation controller if it does not have one built-in.
• Regularly inspect sprinkler heads to make sure they are not damaged or malfunctioning.
• Don't just water because it is your day. Irrigate your lawn when it shows signs of stress from lack of water. Pay attention to signs of stressed grass, such as a bluish-gray color, lingering footprints and leaf blades that are folded in half.
• Find a commercial car wash that uses recycled water. If you wash your own car, park on the grass, use a bucket of soapy water and a hose with a shut-off nozzle.
• Install low-flow faucets or faucet aerators.
• Install low-flow showerheads and time your shower to less than five minutes.
• If your toilet is older than 1993, consider replacing it and participating in the Broward Water Partnership's Conservation Pays Program where you may be eligible for a rebate.
• Scrape your dishes, don't rinse before loading into the dishwasher. And always operate the dishwasher only when you have a full load. Remember to turn off water when you are brushing your teeth or shaving. Every drop counts!

NOTE:  Lauderhill has an Interest Free Energy Loan Program to Residents.  Go to:  http://lauderhill-fl.gov/news-events/interest-free-loans