Summer watering
Water demand can double in summer months. Halton Region encourages efficient outdoor water use in order to reduce peak water demand and avoid the need to implement outdoor water use restrictions. Outdoor water use restrictions may be required in order to ensure a continuous, reliable supply of safe drinking water for essential use and emergency firefighting service. To learn more about current water restriction levels, visit Outdoor Water Use and Restrictions.
Water-efficient gardens
- Note areas of direct sunlight, shade, wind and precipitation.
- Understand your property's elevation and soil type.
- Identify your lawn and garden's water needs.
- Select native, drought-tolerant plants.
- Consider plants that are easy to maintain and attract birds and beneficial insects
- Use a rain barrel.
- Use attractive, colourful low-water demand landscaping and shrubs.
Consider adding these features to your garden:
- Scree gardens: Gravel and rock formations that improve drainage at the base of a slope.
- Groundcovers: Prevent erosion and weeds, great for difficult areas.
- Shade gardens: Variety of shaded plants that trap moisture and limit evaporation.
Automatic irrigation systems
Poorly designed, installed or maintained irrigation systems can result in significant over-consumption of water. If you are installing or maintaining an automatic irrigation system, ensure that:
- Your contractor is certified with the Irrigation Association and provides feedback on the efficiency of your irrigation system
- You have a rain sensor
- You and your family know how to operate the system
- You regularly check for leaks and overwatering
- You use water-efficient products and layout
Find a rain barrel
You can purchase a rain barrel for your home by visiting an online/local retailer.