Check out our video for ideas on how to keep our water clean. (Requires QuickTime).

Here are some helpful tips:

• Water wisely. Try light, frequent watering. It’s important to water the lawn, not the pavement. If possible, reduce watering during peak times, 6 am - 10 am and 6 pm - 9 pm. Using less water during these times can reduce your water rate.
• Use mulch. Place a thick layer of mulch (e.g., four inches) around trees and plants.  This helps to retain moisture.
• Sweep it. Clean sidewalks and driveways with a broom, instead of a hose
• Put rainwater to work. Use rainwater to water your plants. Direct downspouts toward your plants and green areas or collect water with rain barrels for use later.
• Mow high. Three inches is recommended for grass with deeper roots, which requires less water.

Additional ways to get the messege out

• Keep the Ours to Protect season calendar handy so the entire region is sending a consistent message.
• Place a link to the "Ours to Protect" program on your Web site.
• Check out the Ours to Protect calendar of events.
• Rain barrels can be purchased at the following vender Web sites:
  • http://www.midwestinternetsales.com/rainbarrels.htm
  • http://www.cleanairgardening.com/rainbarrels.html
  • http://www.rainsaverusa.com/
  • www.arlingtonecho.net/rainbarrel.htm
• Learn how to create your own rain barrels at:
  • http://www.cityofbremerton.com/content/sw_makeyourownrainbarrel.html

Visit www.semcog.org for additional information.

For questions about the "Our Water. Our Future. Ours to Protect." program contact Iris Steinberg at steinberg@semcog.org or 313-961-4266.