POA water conservation tips

Several weeks ago, the Village POA encouraged its residents and business to be conscious of the amount of water used each month. The conservation program is meant to delay the cost of expanding the Village's water treatment plant as long as possible. State law requires the POA continue its design plans, however postponing the construction would provide the POA with additional time to save for the estimated $4,000,000 expenditure. Common techniques for conserving water include changing out old shower heads with new low-flow technology, installing low-flush toilets, and replacing old washing machines with high efficiency washing machines. Displacement devices can be used in toilets without the cost of purchasing a new low-flow toilet Displacement devices include plastic water bottles filled with pebbles and positioned in the tank of the toilet. This reduces the amount of water used per flush. Adjustable toilet flappers are also available and allow for the adjustment in the amount of water used per flush. Additionally residents can reduce their water usage by turning the water off while brushing their teeth or shaving, taking shorter showers, and running the washing machine or dishwasher only when full or using a reduced setting to match the load size. Outside, residents and businesses can harvest rainwater for watering landscapes, use plants that require less water, adjust sprinklers to water landscaping and not the street, house or sidewalks, and water landscape in the mornings or evenings to avoid evaporation. Additionally, allowing the grass to grow slightly taller will reduce the amount of water loss by providing more ground shade for the roots and by promoting water retention in the soil. Mulch should also be used around plants and trees to retain moisture, and drip or other low flow irrigation devices can be used to avoid excess water loss.