The City of Arlington will end the Stage 1 drought watering schedule Friday, May 4. The twice per week outdoor watering schedule was implemented on August 29, 2011, after the Tarrant Regional Water District's regional water supply dropped to 75% capacity. Water supply levels dropped to a low of 67% in mid-November but have since filled to capacity with above average rainfall during the winter months.

With water supplies above 95% capacity and projected summer weather to be mild compared to the historic drought of last year, the drought watering schedule will no longer be in effect for the foreseeable future.

It is important to note, however while Tarrant Regional Water District water supply lakes are close to capacity and the North Texas region is no longer in a drought, close to 50% of the state of Texas is still under severe, or greater, drought conditions. In fact, given the semi-arid climate of North Texas drought conditions are not new to our area and are guaranteed to return in the future.

With this is mind, Arlington Water Utilities would like to remind residents it is always a good time for conservation. In fact, the drought watering schedule implemented late last summer resulted in an 8% reduction in water use. Long-term water conservation programs should also be implemented to ensure an adequate water supply is available to continue to provide essential tap water services including public health and fire protection, support for the economy and quality of life.

Long-term water conservation program efforts include the year-round 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. outdoor watering restrictions as well as irrigation education. Conservation measures are intended to reduce water waste related to evaporation from the sun and wind, overwatering causing runoff and turf grass susceptible to drought conditions and proper management of irrigation systems.

To make sure you're not wasting water, Arlington Water Utilities recommends the following conservation tips for your landscapes:

• Run the sprinklers for a short time monthly and conduct inspections to identify and adjust any sprinkler heads that are spraying water on the street or driveway.
• Remove dirt or debris that may be clogging the sprinkler nozzle and repair or replace broken heads, valves, seals, and pipes to make sure your system is working efficiently.
• Be sure to adjust the watering schedule with the seasons. Water one inch every five days during the heat of the summer.
• Adjust the watering schedule with water demand. Planting beds typically do not need as much water as grass. Shady areas do not need as much water as full sun areas.
• Install an operational rain and freeze sensor on the sprinkler system if it is set on an automatic timer. Another option is to just run your sprinkler system manually and only water in the early morning when needed.
• Place at least a two inch layer of mulch around plants, bushes, and trees to reduce water evaporation from the soil.
• Expand landscapes by replacing a portion of the turf grass with native and drought tolerant ornamental grasses, shrubs and trees from www.txsmartscape.com
• Use drip irrigation, the most efficient means of irrigation, to water plants, shrubs, and trees. Soaker hoses are another good alternative.

A well maintained sprinkler system can save you time, money and water. And remember, except for hand watering and soaker hoses, sprinkler systems can only be operated before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.

Learn more about the city's water conservation ordinance and tips for using water wisely atwww.SaveArlingtonWater.com or call Arlington Water Utilities at 817-459-6600.