Wallet or water conscious, you can save resources and make a difference in our community by using water wisely. Beyond saving money on your bills, conserving water delays the need for additional infrastructure and related costs. 

Plus, some conservation efforts will earn money back in your pocket. The CPNMD rebate program offers financial incentives on irrigation equipment and bathroom fixtures.

Review these water-saving ideas and take action on the ones that suit your landscape.

Outdoor Water Tips

Did you know that up to 60% to 70% of treated water is used for irrigation?  Of course we want beautiful landscapes. Over the years, techniques, materials, and irrigation technologies have improved to help achieve attractive, waterwise gardens and yards.

1. Day and time matter: Follow our local water schedule and water only between 6 p.m and 10 a.m. Watering during cooler hours reduces evaporation and allows for better absorption.
2. Follow the "1-inch rule": Most established lawns and gardens need only 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Place a small shallow tin in the yard to measure delivery.
3. Water deeply, but less frequently: Infrequent, deep watering encourages roots to grow downward, making plants far more drought-tolerant than quick daily sprinklings.
4. Upgrade thirsty lawns with water-efficient grasses. Blue grama, buffalo grass and Dog Tuff™ varieties are smart options and could earn you a rebate through our Lawn Replacement Program. 
5. Discover beautiful native plant/xeriscape options for your yard and explore creative ways to DIY a more water-wise landscape.
6. Reduce fertilizer fever. Fertilizer promotes plant growth, but also increases water consumption. Apply the minimum amount needed.
7. Train your turf. Proper lawn watering techniques, like cycle and soak, can save thousands of gallons of water annually. To cycle and soak, use 2-3 repeated cycles of 5-10 minutes of irrigation followed by 30-60 minutes of absorption. This allows water to penetrate the soil deeply instead of running off. Check out your current, local watering schedule.
8. Upgrade and save. CPNMD offers rebates when you upgrade your sprinkler system with Rotary Nozzles, ET- based irrigation controllers and rain sensors. Learn more about our rebates.
9. Get a free sprinkler evaluation. Sign-up for a FREE 90-minute audit of your system that includes minor sprinkler head adjustments, efficiency tests and a customized water schedule that could save thousands of gallons of water. Click here for a free sprinkler evaluation!