Water Conservation
For information on selecting water conservation for a green building project, click here.
Listings
The Watershed Committee of the Ozarks
Loring Bullard
320 North Main Ave.
Springfield, MO 65806-1208
417-866-1127
Kelly@watershedcommittee.org
Our mission is to preserve and improve the water supplies of Springfield and Greene County through education and effective management of the region’s watersheds.
James River Basin Partnership
901 S. National, Monroe Hall
Springfield, MO 65897
Phone: 417-836-6183
Has rain barrels and diverter kits available. Greene County residents qualify for a $25 rebate
Water Technology of the Ozarks
786 Croley Blvd.
Nixa, MO 65714
Phone: 417-725-4141
Distributor of GRAF Rainwater Harvesting Systems for Watts
Water Conservation Information
Rainwater harvesting traditionally has been practiced in arid climates, but has recently caught on as a sustainable trend in homes everywhere. It can be as simple using a cistern or rain barrel to collect the rain water which can be used to irrigate lawns and gardens. There are many products now available which make it simple for homeowners to create their own collection system. Another great method of re-using water is through residential greywater systems. These systems take advantage of the water from sinks, showers, and bathtubs and can be used in toilets and irrigation systems. Although complex, such a system could provide an estimated 30% reduction in water use for the average household.
There are several methods to making a home more water efficient. The website H2ouse has a water use calculator which can help determine how much water your family uses, and areas which you can conserve water. Here a few tips to take when trying to conserve water:
1. Locate and stop all water leaks.
Believe it or not, homes can waste up to 10 percent of water due to silent leaks. These leaks often go unnoticed and cost both the homeowner as well as the environment. Locating and stopping these leaks is one of the easiest ways to conserve water in your home.
2. Inspect your irrigation system frequently.
Leaks in residential irrigation systems can easily go unnoticed. Routine checks will ensure your irrigation system is running properly and not wasting any water.
3. Replace old toilets
Toilets manufactured prior to 1992 are not water efficient. Since 1992, toilets have been mandated to use only 1.6 gallons per flush.
4. Replace old clothes washers
Look for ENERGY Star appliances, which use significantly less energy and water to preform the same task as other appliances.
5. Replace shower heads.
Low flow shower heads are an easy and cheap way to conserve water everyday.
6. Plant appropriate plants and water only what your plants need.
Proper landscaping maintenance can dramatically reduce the amount of water needed to maintain your lawn and garden.
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