Did you know that the average roof collects 600 gallons of water for every inch of rain? With climate change bringing longer droughts and more intense storms, being mindful of our water use has never been more important.

Take an hour to audit how much water you use and find simple ways to cut back. Install a rain barrel to collect rainwater for your garden. Check for leaks in pipes and faucets — small drips can waste gallons over time. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, take shorter showers, and reuse water when possible. Every drop saved helps ease the strain on our water systems and keeps our rivers and lakes clean.

A few small changes can make a big difference for the planet and even lower your water bill. Time to get water-wise!