Our water supply is a valuable resource that we can't afford to waste. During the summer months, it is important to use water wisely outdoors, as our community stands to benefit when everyone uses water carefully.

According to the town's Department of Water, in many areas of our township, more than 50 percent of the water supply is used on landscape gardens. Most people, in their diligence to maintain a beautiful lawn, water too much. Usually, lawns and gardens need much less water than they get. Here are some tips to help keep your lawn green while still saving water.

When mowing your lawn, keep the grass one to three inches long. Grass this length shades the roots, requires less water and mowing, and allows the root system to become deeper and more water-efficient.

You should water your lawn thoroughly...but not too often. About one inch per week is usually sufficient. Use short on/off sprinkler cycles; about five to 15 minutes on, then one hour off, and repeat. Water early in the morning or in the evening to reduce evaporation. Set sprinklers to water the lawn only - not the pavement. Makes sure water reaches all grassy areas. Use sprinklers that spray low, large drops, rather than high, fine ones. Don't water in rainy or windy weather. Always be aware of the forecast. Please remember to observe odd/even regulations when watering. This is determined by the number of your house address as it relates to the date of the month. Basically, you may water only every other day, and not at all between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

You can help your plants grow by applying these water saving maintenance tips. When watering, use a hose or watering can if your garden is small. Water slowly at the roots, not on leaves or foliage. This helps plants develop deep roots and prevents water loss. Water new plants regularly for the first year or two until they are well established.

Maintain your landscape properly. This includes mowing, mulching and watering. It also includes eliminating weak plants which require extra care; weeding to keep water intended for plants from going to weeds; controlling pests; fertilizing properly; and pruning to keep plants and trees healthy.

Other ways to conserve water outdoors is to wet your car quickly when washing and turn off the hose. Use a bucketful of soapy water to wash, and rinse quickly. Use a rake or broom to clean your driveway and paved areas. Using a hose wastes water.

Be sure to check your swimming pool system for leaks. Cover tubs and pools to reduce evaporation, and keep the water level low enough to avoid splashing water out of the pool.

On behalf of all the members of the Hempstead Town Board, I urge you to follow common sense water conservation methods to help ensure a plentiful water supply for not only this summer but for generations to come.