Water Conservation

Most of us take the water we use every day for granted.  We turn on the tap and as long as plenty of clean, clear water flows from the faucet, we do not give water much thought.  Despite the little consideration we give it, water is probably our most precious resource.

Think of all the various ways water is used around the home.  We use water for bathing, cleaning, cooking, drinking, flushing, washing the car and keeping the garden green.  As you can see, water is very important in our everyday lives.

Today we use more water than ever before.  As Saskatchewan’s population continues to grow, more water is required to meet demands.  Also, modern technology has produced many conveniences such as automatic dishwashers, washing machines and sprinklers that make many of our tasks easier, but are subject to more water waste.  Mother nature can also be an adversary if insufficient quantities of precipitation accompanied with hot, dry weather persist during peak water demand periods.  The net result is that increased water consumption places an increased demand on a community’s water system.

Solutions to the problems of meeting increasing water demands can be cost prohibitive.  A considerable amount of money is needed to expand water supply and treatment systems and let’s not forget the additional cost of developing more sewage treatment capability to treat the increased volume of sewage.  Also, the imposition of stringent water use restriction programs can place considerable hardships on all persons involved.

But there is something that individuals can do to make more efficient use of limited water supplies.  That is, for everyone in the community to make water conservation practices a part of everyday life.  Water conservation involves reducing water waste; it does not mean doing without.

Water conservation in the home involves changing water waste habits, repairing leaks in plumbing fixtures, and installing water saving devices.  Benefits of practicing water conservation can mean lower water bills for consumers, having water available whenever it is required and the postponement of capital expenditures to expand treatment and storage facilities. Water conservation requires individual attention and co-operation. 

Make Every Drop Count

Be Conscientious – Saving water doesn’t mean you have to do without.  Be aware of the water you are using.  Remember, if we each save a little, together we save a lot.