The San Francisco Chronicle today is running a story about the fact that snowpack levels in the Sierra Nevada mountains are the lowest they’ve been in a long time — a situation that threatens the whole state’s supply of water.
This is obviously interesting to us in San Diego, as water from the north along with water from the Colorado River is all that we get. The Colorado River basin has faced a drought for so long that people have wondered if it’s not a drought but rather just the way it is permanently.
If the northern sources of water start to dry up too, well, you get the idea.
But after the very serious article on the snow levels in the Sierra Nevadas, the Chronicle offers up some tips for conserving water.
Check them out. Pay particular attention to No. 2:
Tips for conserving water
— Cut back on watering your lawn. Look for wilting and only then irrigate. Install sprinkler timers, and water only in the early morning. Make sure sprinkler heads are aimed on grass and not concrete.
— Shower with someone else. Shut off the water when you’re soaping up. Take shorter showers or bathe with the tub a third full.
— Replace inefficient appliances and toilets. Most water agencies have rebate programs to help with the cost.
— Turn the water off when you brush your teeth. Don’t unnecessarily flush the toilet.
— Defrost food in the microwave or refrigerator instead of using running water.
Two questions:
Wasn’t that a bumper sticker or gag t-shirt at some point (Conserve Water: Shower with a Friend)?
Secondly, assuming the Chronicle‘s being serious, has anyone really conserved any water while showering with someone else? Seems like, even if all you’re doing is showering together, doesn’t it usually take about twice as long to complete the hygienic dance? Maybe I’ve just been too distracted.