What can you do to conserve the earth’s dwindling water supply and help stop its contamination?

• First and foremost, don't let the water run … even while shaving and brushing your teeth.
• Fix that leaky faucet One drip a second can waste 2,000 gallons of water per year.
• If you live in an older home, consider replacing your plumbing with low-flow fixtures and low-flush toilets.
• Make sure you only run the dishwasher or washing machine when they are completely full.
• Water your lawn only when necessary, rather than on a regular schedule, and consider landscaping only with native plants that are adaptable to your climate’s conditions.
• Pick up after your pet. Droppings from dogs and cats contain nutrients that can promote the growth of algae if they enter streams or lakes. Also, animal droppings are a source of diseases.
• Direct your rain gutter’s downspouts toward grassy areas to give the water a chance to soak into the ground.
• Don't have a gutter on your roof? Then plant grass, spread mulch or use gravel under the drip line to prevent soil erosion and give the water a chance to soak into the ground.
• Give your car a checkup. A routine maintenance can prevent your car from leaking oil, gas or antifreeze. Place a pan or carpet scraps to catch the drips.
• Consider using kitty litter instead of road salt on those freeze-over days.
• Research other ways to conserve and protect the water inside and outside your home. A good site to check out is http://www.h2ouse.org/.

This article originally appeared on http://www.heifer.org/. Used with permission.