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May 14, 2002
EXTRA LAWN WATERING IN HOT, DRY WEATHER LEADS TO NEW RECORD WATER USAGE
JEA customers used 147 million gallons of water in just 24 hours on Saturday, May 11. That broke the former record set on May 2, 2002 of 143 million gallons.
A month without rain and warmer than usual temperatures have contributed to the record demand for water. Rain yesterday and today are expected to ease water demands - at least temporarily. Watering lawns and landscaping is the principal use of water in peak usage periods.
Try these tips to help preserve our water resources and to help reduce your water bills:
- Water lawns only when grass shows need for irrigation. Generally, water only every 5 to 7 days in summer and every 10 to 14 days in winter. Water when grass blades begin to fold in half lengthwise, or fail to spring back up when stepped upon, or turn a grayish color.
- Water lawns deeply, but less frequently. Irrigate lawns with ¾" to 1" of water to promote deep root growth without wasting water.
- Equip automatic sprinklers with moisture-sensing cut-off switches. Better types allow watering only when needed because soil is dry.
- Practice the seven principles of Xeriscaping® They include reducing grass areas, grouping plants by similar water needs, mulching, efficient irrigation, and using drought-resistant native plants.
- Check all toilets for leaks. You could save up to $50 a month!
- Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. A leak at the rate of one drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons per year!
- Check all toilets for leaks. You could save up to $50 a month!
- Don't let water run continuously. You can save up to 5 gallons every day by turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth.
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