Simple Steps (Virginia)
Abnormally dry and drought conditions persist across Virginia -93.3 percent of the state is classifiedat the moderate drought levelor worse, and 82.2 percent of the state is classified at the moderate drought or worse.Whilerains did provide a bit of relief to some parts of the Southeast,groundwater, reservoir, and stream levels are still very low in many areas.
Viewer Tip: Winter is a great time to implement simple water conservation measures inside your home:
- Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when they are full – save about 1000 gallons per month.
- Fix a leaky faucet – save about 140 gallons per week.
- Keep your shower under five minutes – save up to 1000 gallons per month.
Added up, these easy steps save more than 2500 gallons of waterin amonth – that’s enough water to meet the daily needs of a family of four for almost two weeks!
Season: Winter
(Sources: U.S. Drought Monitor, January 22, 2008. http://www.drought.unl.edu/DM/DM_southeast.htm; Water – Use it Wisely: Southeast Indoor Tips. http://www.wateruseitwisely.com/100ways/SEindoor.shtml; USGS Water Science for Schools: http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/qahome.html)