Statewide Outdoor Water Use Schedule

Published:  11-03-2007

Statewide Outdoor Water Use Schedule
Due to drought conditions across Georgia, the Director of the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has issued a level four drought response that mandates a more stringent outdoor water use schedule. The level four drought response schedule is as follows: A level four drought response prohibits all outdoor water usage, other than for activities exempted by the State EPD or as the State EPD director may order. Under the declaration:

• Watering of newly installed landscape by homeowners is prohibited in Drought Response Level 4. For new landscape installed prior to the Drought Response Level 4 declaration the homeowner may complete their 30 watering days between the hours of midnight and 10 AM. Proof of landscape purchase prior to the declaration date is required.
• Watering of new landscape installed by certified or licensed professionals may be watered for 30 days.
• Landscape and irrigation professionals are exempt from restrictions when on the property.
• Homeowners must follow the hours of Midnight -10 AM.
• Irrigation of personal food gardens is allowed.

10 Easy Ways to Conserve Water

1. Water wisely. Generally, your lawn needs about an inch of water a week. Over watering lawns results in shallow-rooted plants that are less tolerant of heat and drought, and more prone to disease. Avoid over watering by using rain gauge and watering only when necessary, instead of on a fixed schedule.
2. Improve your aim. Adjust your sprinklers to water only your lawn and plants ” not your driveway, sidewalk, or street.
3. Use mulch. Place a thick layer of mulch (e.g., four inches) around trees and plants. This helps retain water, reduce weeds, and minimize the need for pesticides.
4. Sweep it. Clean sidewalks and driveways with a broom, instead of a hose. You’ll save water and keep unwanted pollutants out of the storm drain.
5. Put rainwater to work. Use rainwater to water your plants. Direct downspouts toward your plants and green areas or collect water with rain barrels for use later.
6. Water only once a week. When it hasn’t rained, a deep soaking every week will provide your plants with plenty of moisture.
7. Mow high. Make your lawn cheaper and easier to maintain by mowing high (three inches is recommended). Longer grass has deeper roots and requires less water.
8. Soak don’t sprinkle. When you water, aim the nozzle at the base of plants so more water will reach the roots.
9. Don’t water in the heat of the day. You will only lose water to evaporation. If you have an automatic system, set it to come on in the early morning hours between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m.
10. Turn off the sprinkler when it rains. Install an inexpensive rain sensor shut-off switch.

• Learn about water and the environment with Desdemona
• Water Conservation for Kids
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