Summer is arriving, and with it comes a significant increase in water demand. Washington is under a statewide drought emergency this year, with mountain snowpack at roughly half of normal levels — and that means outdoor water use will put added pressure on the system during the months when demand is already at its peak.

Outdoor watering accounts for a large share of household water use in summer, and small adjustments can make a meaningful difference — both in keeping up with community demand and in keeping your water bill in check.

Here are some practical steps to get started:

Check for leaks. A leaky faucet, toilet, or irrigation fitting can waste thousands of gallons over a summer. A quick check now can save water and money.

Water early. Watering in the early morning, before temperatures rise, reduces evaporation and helps plants absorb moisture more effectively than midday or evening watering.

Use mulch. A few inches of mulch around garden beds and trees helps soil retain moisture, reducing how often you need to water.

Consider drought-tolerant plants. Many native and adapted plants thrive with little supplemental watering once established — a practical choice for new plantings or hard-to-irrigate areas.

Tune up your irrigation system. Misaligned sprinkler heads, runoff onto pavement, and outdated timer settings are among the most common sources of water waste. A seasonal check can help significantly.

Pick up a rain barrel. Skagit PUD sells rain barrels to help customers collect and store rainwater for garden and landscape use — a simple way to stretch your supply through the dry months.