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by Kent Lokkesmoe
Director, DNR Division of Waters
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today urged Minnesotans to conserve water during the ongoing drought. Conserving water will minimize impacts on surface water and ground water. "Wise and efficient use of water is everyone's responsibility," Lokkesmoe said. There are many ways state residents can reduce the amount of water used to accomplish routine tasks.
LANDSCAPE WATER USE
ยท water in early morning or late evening only
ยท cut grass to three inches or higher
ยท do not fertilize in hot weather
ยท apply water slowly so that it can soak into the ground; water thoroughly once a week or less based on rainfall measured in rain gauge
ยท plant native plants adapted to local conditions and need less watering.
HOUSEHOLD WATER USE
ยท never keep water running while brushing teeth or soaping up; wet toothbrush,
turn off the faucet, brush and rinse briefly.
ยท use buckets of water, rather than a running hose, for washing cars or outdoor furniture
ยท keep a bottle of water in the refrigerator to avoid running water from the tap for a drink
ยท fix plumbing leaks promptly
ยท use water-saving appliances and bathroom fixtures.
Residents are advised to listen to media reports for community conservation measures or refer to their community's Web site, if available. Drought information and maps showing the precipitation deficit are available from the State Climatology Office at this Web site: http://climate.umn.edu/doc/journal/dry_summer_2006.htm.
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