April – Water Conservation Month

By Dale Armstrong
Coordinator Florida Yards & Neighborhoods

Perhaps you have heard that the State of Florida and many local governments have designated April as Water Conservation Month. While conserving water should be on our minds year-round, April marks the beginning of our dry season. This drier weather pattern typically lasts about three months in this part of Florida, ending when summer thundershowers commence late in June to early July.

During this drier time, warm weather may stress our lawns and landscape plants in between the mandatory once-a-week sprinkler schedule in west central Florida (reclaimed water sources are currently exempt in some communities). Selecting drought tolerant plants for your yard is one of the easiest changes you can make to minimize the impact of Florida’s seasonal rainfall. Check out these resources for more information about drought tolerant plants and Florida-friendly landscaping: FloridaYards.org and A Guide to Florida Friendly Landscaping.

Speaking of easy changes, stop flushing money down the drain by replacing that old water-hog in your bathroom. Several of our local governments are offering rebates of up to $100 per toilet replaced with a new Ultra Low Flow toilet. The rebates are partially funded by grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD). For customers of Pinellas County Utilities and the cities of Clearwater, Pinellas Park, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs and Oldsmar, contact the Pinellas County Toilet Rebate office at (727)725-2604. For water customers of the City of St. Petersburg call (727)894-2044.