KNOW WHEN & HOW TO WATER YOUR LAWN
Lawn water needs can vary based on rates of evaporation, rainfall, sun exposure, and wind. Brazos Valley WaterSmart uses data from a network of weather stations and rain gauges to provide customized water-saving recommendations. Sign up for free, weekly water recommendation emails.
GET TO KNOW YOUR SPRINKLER SYSTEM
Sprinkler heads have varying precipitation rates depending on their design. The most efficient sprinkler heads have lower precipitation rates that allow the soil to soak up irrigation water without runoff.
Typical sprinkler precipitation rates:
Multi-stream rotors - 0.3 inches per hour;
rotor heads - 0.5 to 0.75 inches per hour;
fixed sprays - 1.25 to 1.5 inches per hour.
JUST TWO DAYS PER WEEK
In order to conserve water, it is recommended that customers water outdoors no more than TWO days per week. The schedule outlined below is voluntary (unless the city is in a Stage 1 or Stage 2 Drought) and provided as a guideline. Start with one watering day per week, and then add up to one additional watering day only when needed later in the summer. REMINDER by ordinance, spray irrigation is not allowed between 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
PRACTICE CYCLE & SOAK
For soil with poor drainage, divide long run times into several shorter cycles on the same day. This is what is known as "cycle and soak." For example, instead of running the sprinkler for 30 minutes continuously, water for 10 minutes, 3 times, with each watering time separated by an hour or more. This will give your grass a deep soaking every time you water.
DO'S AND DON'TS OF WATER CONSERVATION:
• Do NOT water outdoors with an automatic in-ground or hose-end sprinkler systems between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• DO set sprinklers to irrigate before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
• Do NOT operate an irrigation system with sprinkler heads that are broken or out of adjustment.
• Do NOT allow water to run off a property or allow water to pool in a street or parking lot.
• DO repair controllable leaks within a reasonable time period after notice has been given to repair the leak.