Water conservation in farm households

Water conservation in farm households

Ensure that the right amount of water is used in a proper manner and at the right time.

· Place water storage tanks that collect and store rainwater from roof of the houses and other buildings.

· If the water source is a spring, build an enclosed reservoir where water from the spring can be collected. Make it a community project rather than an individual household project.

· Where possible, excess water from the spring can be diverted to communal fish ponds where fish can be cultured.

· If a ground well with a hand pump is used, provide an adjustable downspout located close to the ground to minimize splashes.

· Excess run-off water from a ground well can be drained into small ditches leading to the irrigation of vegetable gardens.

· Soak dirty farm implements and tools for easier cleaning.

· Water backyard gardens during the cool part of the day (early morning or late afternoon) and avoid too frequent watering.

· When watering plants, use a pail and small can with tiny holes at the bottom.

· Provide drinking trough for animals.

· Use mulch (cut straw or grasses) to minimize surface evaporation from your garden and reduce weed problems.

· Soak heavily soiled clothes before washing to remove large stains.

· Save rinse water from home for use in cleaning animal pens/houses.

Ideas for Action:

A Technology Information Kit, November 23 - 28, 1992