Our Water Conservation Action Team reached out to Eliza Sorenson, Water Resources Specialist with the City of Ashland, to ask about the upcoming dry season and how to best conserve water in our yards and homes. Here are her answers to our questions.
- Is Ashland going to run short of water by late summer?
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- Ashland has multiple tools in place to help ensure we have enough water to meet community needs through the summer and into the fall. This includes supplementing our water supply with TAP and TID water when needed. However, conservation will play an important role, and we encourage all residents to use water wisely wherever possible.
- What are the best ways for Ashlanders to use water wisely?
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- There are many ways Ashland residents can reduce water use and help stretch our supply during drought conditions. Staying informed about regional drought conditions in Southern Oregon can help residents understand when conservation is most critical. A great first step is to check for leaks in your irrigation system and inside your home. Even small leaks can waste a significant amount of water over time. Planting drought-tolerant landscaping this spring can also reduce outdoor water use during the hotter months.
- Additional simple actions include:
- Take shorter showers
- Collect water while it warms up and reuse it for plants
- Run only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines
- Turn off the tap when brushing teeth, washing hands, or shaving
- Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them down
- Upgrade to high-efficiency (Water Sense-labeled) toilets
- Install Energy Star-labeled washing machines and Water Sense-labeled showerheads
- Change out higher flow faucet aerators to lower flow
- What help is available from the City to reduce water consumption this summer?
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- The City of Ashland offers several programs to help residents conserve water:
- Free Water Efficiency Checkups: City staff will evaluate your irrigation system, and upon request, assess indoor water use. After the visit, you will receive personalized recommendations to improve efficiency and reduce water use.
- Rebates: The City offers rebates for installing Water Sense-labeled toilets, smart irrigation controllers, and for replacing traditional lawns with drought-tolerant landscaping.
- Free Conservation Tools: Residents can receive free Water Sense showerheads, faucet aerators, and soil moisture meters to help manage water use more effectively.
- The City of Ashland offers several programs to help residents conserve water:
Use this link to request a Water Efficiency Checkup – Water Efficiency Checkup Request
Use this link to view our water conservation programs – Water Conservation Programs
Conservation Phone – 541.552.2062
Conservation Email – conserve@ashland.or.us