The following are helpful suggestions for reducing waste during the holiday season:

— Choose LED holiday lights instead of traditional incandescent. If you're upgrading to LEDs and need to get rid of your old lights, be sure to dispose of them properly.

— Remember to unplug tree lights at night and when away from home.

— Use reusable bags for holiday shopping. Tell store clerks you don't need a bag for small or oversized purchases.

— Read a product's label to determine its recyclability and whether or not it's made from recycled materials. 

— Get creative when wrapping gifts. Try to avoid traditional wrapping paper in favor of "upcycled" newspapers, paper bags and magazines or choose reusable gift bags.

— Give gifts that don't require much packaging or wrapping. Think event tickets, gift cards or gift certificates. Or consider a donation to a charitable organization on your loved one's behalf.

— If you're gifting electronic gadgets or toys that require batteries, choose rechargeable and consider including a battery charger as well.

— Choose greeting cards that can be sent electronically over paper cards. If you do send paper greeting cards, use cards made from recycled content. 

— Don't go overboard with holiday meals. Prevent that uncomfortable too-full feeling and reduce food scraps by cooking only what you and your guests can reasonably eat.

— Lastly, but not least, recycle your old Christmas tree.  For more information on pick-up services, contact Turlock Scavenger at (209) 668-7274.

CONSERVATION TIP #159

Winter Watering Schedule: The Winter Water Schedule is now in effect, and limits outdoor watering to one day per week.  Even numbered addresses can water on Saturdays only and odd numbered addresses can water on Sundays only. And remember, watering is prohibited for 48 hours following a significant rain event.