Frequently Asked Questions
(Click on a question below to view the answer, or scroll down to see the entire list of questions and answers.)
How do you measure a drought?
What can I do in my home to reduce water use?
What can I do in my yard and garden to reduce water use?
There are a number of measures and indices used to measure drought. One of the most common is the Palmer Drought Severity Index. Other measures include the Crop Moisture Index and Streamflow Level Percentiles. You can access these indices for Alabama at the Alabama Office of the State Climatologist. http://vortex.nsstc.uah.edu/aosc/
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Repair any leaky faucets or appliances.
Use low-flush toilets.
Install flow aerators on faucets.
Take shorter showers.
Reduce the amount of water used if you take tub baths.
Use your dishwater and washing machine only when you have a full load.
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Turn off water while shaving, brushing your teeth or washing your face.
Water your lawn only when necessary. As a general rule, established lawns do not need to be watered more often than every five to seven days.
Water early in the morning when temperatures are lowest.
Position sprinklers so only water your lawn or garden. Do not water the street, driveway or other solid surfaces.
Mulch trees and shrubs and in garden beds to retain moisture in the soil.
Sweep driveways, sidewalks and patios instead of rinsing off with the hose.
Use a shut-off nozzle on your hose so that water flows only as needed.
Do not leave sprinklers or hoses unattended.
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