What do I need to do to save water in California? If we’re honest with ourselves, you would have to agree that we’re creatures driven for pleasure. For some, we would call it a good quality of life. Most of us think we deserve certain treatment. For example, if we put in a hard day’s work, we like we deserve a good meal or a long hot shower. In any case, just by nature, when we accomplish something, we feel we deserve something in return. There’s a buzzword that’s been around for some time now, “Karma.” The general definition means cause and effect. If we want to save our environment, including our precious water, we’re going to have to get out of our comfort zone at times and do our part.
Saving Water Starts With You And Me
If everyone takes responsibility for their small part to save water in California, it will have a massive impact. Have you ever thought about showering with water conservation in mind? It looks like this:
- Turn the hot water on and rinse your body, then turn the water off.
- Wash your body and quickly shampoo your hair.
- Turn the hot water back on and rinse.
When you do your final rinse, take an extra couple of minutes to enjoy the hot shower. Furthermore, don’t brush your teeth or shave in the shower without first turning off the water. Finally, if you enjoy a hot bath, take one as an occasional treat – baths use 35 to 50 gallons of water versus a shower that uses 25 gallons for a 10-minute shower with a low flow showerhead.
Every American Uses 80-100 Gallons Of Water Per Day
Here is a different twist on the reality of our water crisis in California and how we can do our part to make it better. Since 1970 the population in California has exceeded 40 million. That’s an increase of 20 million over the last 50 years. Yet, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the average American uses 80-100 gallons for in-home water usage. Flushing your toilet is the number one usage of water, followed by bathing and showering. With 40 million people using 80-100 gallons of water per day, it doesn’t take long to realize how much water we use. Then you have farming and agriculture and much, much more. We need a concerted effort by everyone in California to understand our condition and to do their part to save water.
Don’t Be A Water Nazi
Have you ever walked around your neighborhood and seen excessive water flowing down the street to the sewer? Most of us have, but very few of us have ever done anything about it. Now let me clarify that no one wants the “water police” running around the neighborhood correcting everyone on their water usage. With that said, you can take some positive steps toward change by dropping your neighbor a friendly note. In most cases, our sprinklers get set to timers, and they get out of whack during certain times of the year. Unfortunately, some people aren’t aware that there’s a problem until someone tells them. And remember, you can’t MAKE someone fix the problem.
Let’s All Do Our Part – Save Water By Keeping A Watchful Eye
You’ll find that the Homeowners Association (HOA) is responsible for much of the water waste in our neighborhoods. You can call and notify them of a problem. It’s always good to follow up with a letter or email that’s dated. Don’t forget to send a picture of the issue because a “picture paints a thousand words.” The Home Owners Association (HOA) usually responds to broken water pipes quickly. However, the city is also responsible for some of our water loss. They’re eager to learn what water lines are broken, including areas that use excessive amounts of water unnecessarily.
We Are The Voice And Eyes Of The City And our HOA
We are the eyes and, in some cases, the voice of our city. They depend on us to report water issues. For San Diego, you can call the water leak hotline (619) 515-3525. For Riverside, you can call (951) 782-0330. Above all, be patient and remember, “You catch more bees with honey than vinegar,” so always use kind words when addressing neighbors, the HOA, or the city. Let’s all do our part to save water in California.
