news@joplinglobe.com
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Today is Aug. 8. If you are a Missouri American Water Co. customer with an address ending in an odd number, that means your sprinklers should be turned off today.
They’re not? Then put that cup of coffee down and shut them off now.
Missouri American Water Co., on July 23, asked its customers to participate in a voluntary water conservation measure. That means people with even-numbered addresses water yards and trees only on even-numbered days, and those with odd-numbered addresses do so on odd-numbered dates.
Apparently that message isn’t getting through. The company is continuing to see the same amount of water used as before that request.
Our primary water source is Shoal Creek, and the relief from the weekend rain was temporary. Water levels are low and the drought continues.
Mandatory measures are just around the corner, unless customers treat the drought seriously.
Here are just a few ways you can help, according to www.wateruseitwisely.com:
• Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost vegetable food waste instead and save gallons every time.
• When washing dishes by hand, don’t let the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water.
• For cold drinks, keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap. This way, every drop goes down you and not the drain.
• Use a water-efficient shower head. You can save up to 750 gallons a month.
You can find hundreds of easy ways to save water — and money on your water bill.
Don’t wait until a mandate is issued. Conserve water all year long.
