As the weather cools and the seasons start to change, it is a great time to reassess your outdoor watering needs. Landscape areas tend to require less water and a little less maintenance this time of year. To ensure sure you’re making the most of your water use this fall season, here are a few tips to help conserve water outdoors.

1. Reset Sprinklers – Lawns, plants, and gardens require less water in the fall as daylight hours become shorter and the sun’s intensity decreases. Reduce watering days and times to one to two days per week.

2. Lawn Care – Mow lawns as little as possible during the fall and winter months. This allows your lawn to retain the moisture from cold mornings (dew).

3. Mulch – Mulching helps to slow the evaporation of moisture from soil and keeps the soil and roots cool. It also protects plants and gardens from freezing.

4. Weeds – Weeds are notorious for stealing water from other plants. Keep your lawn and garden free from weeds.

5. Swimming Pools – Pools are used less during the fall season, install a pool cover to prevent evaporation and unnecessary refilling.

6. Rain Water – Capture and recycle rain water. Place barrels or buckets beneath your downspouts and reuse this water on plants and gardens. You can also redirect downspouts to channel across lawn areas.

For questions or additional information, please contact Municipal Services at 209-668-5590.

— Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department

Water Conservation Tip #26

SHOWERS INSTEAD OF BATHS: It takes about 70 gallons of water to fill a bathtub; showers are generally the more water-efficient way to bathe.