Take Care of Texas offers tips to save water, energy and money this spring

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Today marks the first day of spring, and while we can enjoy milder temperatures, the TCEQ says now is the time to prepare our living and outdoor spaces for the eventual arrival of summer heat. The agencys Take Care of Texas program makes it easier for everyone to do their part to help conserve our states natural resources, and save money at the same time.

As Texans, we all take on a personal responsibility to our state, says TCEQ Commissioner Zak Covar. Preparing for the summer heat now, with these simple, cost-effective water and energy conservation measures, will help us all to do our part to Take Care of Texas.

Lawn and garden watering can make up nearly 40 percent of a Texans total household water use; but if you prepare your yard this spring, you can do your part to save water.

Fine-tune your irrigation system. Properly zone the system so turf areas are watered separately from the landscape and flowerbeds. Schedule each irrigation zone to account for the type of sprinkler, sun exposure, and soil type. Check sprinkler heads for dirt and debris that clogs the nozzle and adjust the heads to avoid watering pavement.

Capture spring showers and use them to water your landscape. Rainwater is better for plants than chemically treated water and its free.

Add mulch and compost. Mulch helps prevent erosion, suppress weeds, moderate soil temperature, and adds nutrients to your lawn and garden. Compost serves as a soil conditioner that will help improve your garden and reduce your water usage. By using mulch and compost on lawns and gardens, Texans could reduce the need for outdoor watering by 30 to 60 percent.

Use native plants. Plants native to Texas are beautiful; and they typically require less water, pesticides, fertilizers, and maintenancesaving you time and money. The deep root systems of many native plants also increase the soil's capacity to store water and reduce runoff. In addition, native plants attract a variety of birds, and butterflies, by providing diverse habitats and food sources.

In Texas, cooling and heating accounts for as much as 50 percent of annual home energy expenses. This spring, you can do your part to prepare your home for the summer heat while helping to keep our air clean.

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Take Care of Texas offers tips to save water, energy and money this spring