Think Green; save water

With more and more of us thinking Green these days that means we are thinking more about how we use our water. In our North American society we have pretty much a throw away attitude and over the years we have become callous about how we use just about everything. The trend is changing though. The more we see the effects of man on our environment, with climate change and all, the more we know we need to do something. But is it too late?
It is never too late to do something that we know is right to do. If each of us does a little it will add up to a whole lot, and that is what needs to happen “a whole lot” if we want this world to be around for our grand children. You can help by doing your part in thinking Green about the way you use water, right in your own back yard this summer.
(ARA) - "Think green; save blue" will likely be the motto of environmentally aware gardeners and lawn lovers across the country this summer as drought conditions are expected to persist in many regions.
It is possible to grow a thriving garden and nurture a lovely landscape while minimizing water consumption. A combination of native-friendly plants, smart agricultural practices, alternative water sources and efficient irrigation can help keep gardens and lawns growing healthy throughout dry summer months.

Here are some tips for conserving water in your corner of the great outdoors:
* Choose drought-resistant native plants for your landscaping needs. Your options won't be limited to cactus, either. From ornamental grasses to shrub roses, many drought-tolerant native species also offer bright color and visual appeal. Look for plants that do well in the driest conditions found in your geographic region.
* Groom soil for optimum water absorption and retention. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service recommends adding water-retaining organic material to your soil. You can also reduce evaporation by using mulch in landscaping beds.
* Look for alternative water sources other than the outdoor tap - such as collecting roof runoff in a rain barrel for use in flower beds and vegetable gardens.
* Irrigate efficiently with low-volume irrigation systems and smart watering practices. In summer 2007, restrictions on lawn watering were widespread throughout the country. New low-volume micro sprinklers and drip irrigation uses 80 to 90 percent less water than traditional irrigation systems. The key is to apply water only exactly when and where it is needed.
* Design your landscaping to minimize evaporation. Windbreaks and fences slow the movement of the wind over the ground and the evaporation it causes, according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Courtesy of ARA content

There are many more ways I am sure you can think of that could help save our precious water. Why though? It seems like such a little thing and living right next to Lake Huron there really does seem like there is plenty. What is everyone worried about? Over the last number of years though the Great Lakes have been at record low levels and I know we have struggled with drought conditions. Thinking Green is thinking about not being so wasteful, reusing where possible, and renewing where we can. So let us all do our part in reusing and conserving our water “Think Green; save Blue”

Thinking Green “by the yard”