Southern California: In the Yellow

California water levels in 2006-2008 were "in the blue" meaning that we were at a surplus. Now, in 2009 the water supply levels have dropped dramatically, edging closer and closer to the "red," or severely depleted level.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and the family of Southern California Water Agencies have together developed a website which helps to inspire and educate the public on water consumption, supplies, and conservation. These tips from www.bewaterwise.com show how you can do your part to save water and see California though its current drought.

Indoors

What you can do:

• Turn off the water when brushing your teeth. Save: 3 gallons per day.
• Shorten showers by one to two minutes: Save: 5 gallons per day.
• Fix leaky faucets. Save: 20 gallons per day.
• Wash only full loads of laundry. Save: 15 to 50 gallons per load.

Outdoors:

What you can do:

• Water your yard only before 8 a.m. to reduce evaporation and interference from wind. Save: 25 gallons per day.
• Install a smart sprinkler controller. Save: 40 gallons per day.
• Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks. Save: 150 gallons each time.
• Check your sprinkler system for leaks, over spray and broken sprinkler heads. Save: 500 gallons per month.