The earth is a closed system. We have all the water we will ever have. It is important to protect and conserve this vital resource.

The Water Cycle brings rain and other precipitation to the land from the ocean. Over time the water flow into rivers, lakes and ground water before eventually returning to the ocean. This hydrological system filters and cleanses the water as it passes through the various stages. Most of the water on Earth, 97%, is located in the ocean. Only 3% is fresh water and less than 1% of that is surface water that is readily available for use. We must protect and conserve this essential resource.

With a few minor changes to your daily habits, you can conserve a substantial amount of water which saves you  money as well as helping to maintain water supplies for future generations. 

Do not leave the water running when you brush your teeth or shave. The average bathroom fixture supplies two gallons of water per minute.

Take short showers instead of a bath. It takes approximately 70 gallons of water to fill a bathtub. A 5 minute shower uses 10 to 15 gallons. 

Use a timer when you shower to help you keep it short.

Fix leaky faucets and toilets. A leaky toilet can waste about 200 gallons of water every day.

When using the washing machine, make sure to wash full loads or to select the appropriate water level setting for the load size.

Make sure your dishwasher has a full load before running it.

Buy water efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Water the lawn or garden during the coolest times of the day, early morning is best, when less evaporation will occur.

Make sure your sprinklers are watering the lawn or garden and not the sidewalk or street.

Sweep your sidewalks and patios instead of using a hose.

For more ways  to conserve water, see the United States Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense Website. The EPA's WaterSense program "seeks to protect the future of our nation's water supply by promoting water efficiency and enhancing the market for water-efficient products, programs, and practices.

The WaterSense label identifies these products and programs.

The EPA's Calculate Your Water Savings helps you determine how much water, energy and money you can save by installing WaterSense labeled products.

Additionally, the EPA WaterSense Program has resources for available for education:

Educational Materials - A Day in the Life of a Drop

Test Your WaterSense Game - a Pac Man like video game that allows children to test their water knowledge.