Alachua County is joining numerous governments, utilities, and agencies across Florida in declaring April as “Water Conservation Month.”
“We all need to do our part to use less water every day,” said Alachua County Environmental Protection Department Water Resources Program Manager Stacie Greco. “Past survey data has revealed that over 50% of Alachua County residents don’t know that the water we use for our yards, homes, and businesses comes from the aquifer- the same source that replenishes our springs, rivers, and lakes. Look for EPD’s Aquifer Awareness campaign via social media, billboards, and print media to learn more about our water.”
Alachua County depends on the aquifer for its drinking water, as do the springs, rivers, and lakes. Yards can account for almost 60% of residential water use. While irrigation is currently allowed two days a week, the County encourages everyone to turn off automatic irrigation systems, watch the weather, and wait to water. Established plants typically need less water, and residents may be able to turn entire zones off or reduce run times. Every drop saved means there is more water available for the springs and the future.