• Keep a container of cold water in the fridge for drinking.
• Don't run the tap continuously when rinsing food or dishes.
• Scrape (don't rinse) dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.
• Run the dishwasher only when full.
• Install aerators on kitchen taps.
• Check for leaky taps and appliances.

• About 70% of all household water is used in the bathroom. To cut down- Take shorter showers or smaller baths.
• Install water-saving shower heads.
• Turn off the water while soaping or shampooing.
• Flush toilet less often.
• Turn off the taps while shaving or brushing your teeth.
• Install water-saving devices in toilets
• Install aerators on bathroom taps.
• Check for leaky toilets and faucets.

• Wash clothes only when they're dirty.
• Run the washing machine only when full, or adjust the water levels.
• Check for leaky taps.

• Lawns and gardens require only five millimeters (1/5 inch) of water per day during warm weather. Less is need during spring, fall, or cool weather.
• Water lawns every three to five days, rather than for a short period every day. Apply five millimeters of water for each day since the last watering in warm weather. The amount of water can easily be measured by placing a can or jar in the area being sprinkled. Measure the time required to apply the proper amount of water and use this figure for future sprinkling.
• Grass which is green does not need water. Water is required when the grass starts to develop a black tinge along the top. Recovery is almost immediate when water is applied at this stage. Blacking does not hurt grass, browning does.
• Do not over-water in anticipation of a shortage. The soil cannot store extra water.
• Use shut-off timers or on-off timers if possible. Do not turn on the sprinklers and leave for the day.
• Prevent water loss due to evaporation by watering during the cool part of the day, in the early morning or late evening. Do not water on windy days.
• Maintain lawns at a height of 6.5 centimeters (2 1/2 inches).
• Young or freshly transplanted garden plants need less water more frequently, not extra water, until they are established.
• Most shrubs and trees need water only once per week, even in warm weather.
• Use organic matter and mulch covers to retain moisture and prevent evaporation.
• Reduce car washing, and use a broom rather than a hose to clean sidewalks, driveways, and patios.

• Schedule properly, taking soil type, slope, water pressure, varieties planted, and the requirements of your water supplier into account.
• Water only when needed.
• Check regularly for leaks and breakage.
• Adjust sprinkler head pressure to avoid overlap and wasteful watering of roadways and sidewalks.
• Clean filters regularly.
• Most importantly, override the 'automatic' system with common sense, especially during periods of rain.

Think before using water for any purpose - try to use less.

Water conservation is an ongoing mandate of the Rutland Waterworks District. There are water-saving devices we can recommend for use by our customers in the home. The District is continuing programs to increase efficiency in operation and reliability of long term quality water supplies.