Start with Smart Design
Don't send water down the drain! When designing patios, paths and other hard surfaces, consider their potential for harvesting rainwater. Begin with a smart landscape plan that directs surface runoff to neighboring plants.
Remember, hard surfaces could replace high-water-using grass and lower overall maintenance costs.
Clean up the Water-saving Way
Avoid temptation to clean sidewalks, paths and other paved areas with hoses.
Alternatives include:
Dry sweeping. When you clean hard surfaces, "dry sweep" with brooms and brushes. Brooms are a cheap way to save water.
Low-water technologies. When you do need to use water to clean pavement or patios, consider using a water-efficient "water broom" rather than a hose. (If you must use a hose, make sure that it has a low-volume nozzle and automatic shut-off.)
