Three tips to save water this 4th of July

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The 4th of July is South Lake Tahoe’s busiest weekend of the summer. With weekend revelers arriving to celebrate Independence Day, water demand increases. In the face of record breaking temperatures and the worst drought in decades, this stresses water supply.
For Californians, drought is nothing new. It’s as American as watermelon and corn on the cob, burgers on the grill, and a slice of apple pie on the 4th of July. You probably already turn off the water when brushing your teeth, take shorter showers, and only run the dishwasher when it’s full. But what else can you do to save water?

Tip 1: Water the Right Day, and the Right Way

“We see water demand double, and at times triple, during summer months, mainly due to landscape irrigation,” says Shelly Thomsen, manager of public affairs and conservation at South Tahoe Public Utility District. “Watering the right day, and the right way, can make a big difference.”

South Tahoe Public Utility District has designated watering days. Even numbered street addresses water Monday, Wednesday, Friday; odd numbered street addresses water Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

Thomsen recommends watering in the early mornings or at night to reduce water loss from evaporation.

Tip 2: Track your water use and receive leak alerts

Track your home water use by logging into mywater.stpud.us. “Logging into WaterSmart allows you to view your water use, apply for a toilet, clothes washer or turf removal rebate, or sign up for a free water wise house call,” Thomsen said. “It also automatically notifies you if you have a leak, so you don’t need to worry if you’re away for a long weekend.”

Tip 3: Plant Tahoe Friendly Landscaping

Grass is the thirstiest landscape option. You can get paid to replace your grass with Tahoe friendly landscaping by applying for South Tahoe Public Utility District’s turf buy-back program. Another easy way to save water is to apply mulch around plants to help prevent evaporation.

“A great way to keep your yard beautiful and save water is by signing up for a free water wise landscape consultation,” said Thomsen. “We come out and inspect your sprinkler system and provide tips and tricks on how to beautify your yard, plant Tahoe friendly plants, and save water.”

To learn more or sign up visit stpud.us/waterconsv/ or call 530-544-6474 x6363.