Conservation Commission

Backyard Water Conservation

A simple way to reduce non-point source pollution coming from your lawn is to use less water. When to much water is used, it will run off your lawn, eventually carrying nutrients into surface waters like Baboosic Lake or the Souhegan River.

The Souhegan River

• Increase Drought Tolerance: Don't mow grass any lower than a height of 2". Longer grass can better withstand heat stresses and will grow a deeper root system. Leave clippings to reduce evaporation. Use drought tolerant landscaping such as ground covers, rock gardens, and bark and stone mulch. Finally select drought resistant grass species such as the fescues.
  
  
• Provide only as much water as is needed: Grass will naturally go into a dormant, brown period when summers are hot and dry. The lawn is not dead. It will grown again when cooler, wet weather returns. Drought tolerant grasses will continue to grow and not suffer permanent injury. If you do water during the summer, 1/2" to 1" of water per week is enough. Most sprinker systems provide this much water in about an hour of sprinkling. Check your sprinkler by placing cans or pans around it to see how fast they fill. Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation in gardens to apply the right amount just where it is needed.
  
  

A few simple changes can conserve water, save money, and create a cleaner environment at the same time.