Turn off the sprinklers!

Recent storms have dumped several inches of much-needed rain on the North Valley, creating a soggy mess in some areas. Did you remember to shut off your sprinklers?

California’s rainy season may be under way, but we’re still in bad shape when it comes to our water supply. In June, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a statewide drought. Sure, water still flows freely when you turn on the tap, but our overall dwindling supplies are wreaking havoc on many ecosystems, such as the San Joaquin Delta, and the state’s agricultural industry, much of which is fed from the waterway.

We’re not even close to being out of the woods, so conservation is key. Turning off your sprinklers when they’re not needed is one very effective way to help. For metered water users, keep in mind that cutting back your consumption saves money.

Here are a few other water-saving tips recommended by the California Department of Water Resources:

• Stop leaks: Check and repair your hardware and other water-using devices. Remember all the faucets inside and outside of the house.

• Low flow: Replace your old toilet (anything purchased before 1992) with a new water-conserving variety.

• Clean house: Get rid of that old clothes washer—the second-largest household water user—and replace it with a water-efficient model, such as Energy Star.

• Short and sweet: Take quick showers and don’t run water while brushing teeth or shaving.

For additional suggestions, visit www.water.ca.gov/drought/docs/WaterSavingTips.pdf.