Wednesday, April 13, 2005
As we enjoy spring and get ready for the warmer weather, Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson urges all county residents to make water conservation a priority. Clean potable water is essential to both our physical well being as well as the economy of our area.
"In recent weeks we have seen a lot of rain, but this does not mean we don't have to worry about staying conscientious about water conservation. This is especially true during the spring and summer months when water use increases," Levinson said.
Levinson noted that Atlantic County is experiencing a rapid rate of growth and much new development. "The fact that we are a growing area places more demand on the underground aquifers that are our primary source of water," he said. "Water use for personal and home consumption and commercial use increases. Also, more areas are paved over for new driveways, roads, and parking lots, so that rainwater can not easily permeate back down into the ground and recharge the aquifers."
To help citizens reduce their water consumption this summer Levinson offered this advice:
* Don't over water. Lawns really only need a small amount of water to survive. They may need a little bit more to stay green, but watch out for the water running off the grass and down the street or driveway. In the summer, 50 to 70 percent of the water demand is for outdoor use. If a garden hose is accidentally left on overnight, it may use twice as much water as the average family uses in a month!
* When watering gardens do not apply water more rapidly than the soil can absorb it.
* Do not water when windy. Much water is lost to evaporation.
* Use mulches, such as woven weed barrier, bark, sawdust, or compost to help planting beds retain moisture.
* Place a pitcher of water in the refrigerator for drinking. This cuts down on the amount of water going down the drain while waiting for a cold drink from the faucet.
* When washing your car, use a hose nozzle that shuts off between rinses rather than letting the water run.
Atlantic County government is urging area businesses and residents to use water wisely as part of a countywide water conversation campaign launched last month by the Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA). The campaign's goal is to help reduce water use throughout the county by as much as 10 percent.
"These and other water saving practices can make a difference," Levinson stated. "Simply turning off the water while you are brushing your teeth could save four gallons a minute. That's nearly 1,000 gallons a month."
The "Water - Use It Wisely" campaign focuses additional attention on the landscaping, building/plumbing, agriculture and hospitality industries and will offer workshops to educate landscapers and farmers about water conservation, irrigation techniques and other water saving tips.
For more information about water conservation, visit www.wateruseitwisely.com.