Water Conservation

1% of Potential Reductions

Marin is no stranger to periodic droughts and the need to conserve water, and the community has responded by reducing per capita water use by about 15%, from 142 gallons per capita per day (gpcd) in 2005 to 116 gpcd in 2020. In addition to installing low-flow fixtures (showerheads, faucets, and toilets) and water-efficient appliances (clothes washers and dishwashers), residents and businesses are planting native, drought-tolerant species and even replacing lawns with attractive, low-water use gardens. Good thing, because as temperatures continue to rise, we will experience more droughts and more intense heat waves than before.

Top Actions You Can Take

1. Overall reduction of water use at home

By shortening showers by just 1 minute, you can save up to 1,000 gallons of water per year and lower your water bill. Check out these ways to shower better
To minimize water loss, water your lawns and outdoor plants in the early morning or evening, and be mindful of how you water

2. Install low flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets

Switching faucets, showerheads, and toilets to low-flow and lower use models will not only decrease your water consumption, but also save money on your monthly bill
Marin Municipal Water District offers several rebate programs and incentives for switching to water saving fixtures
See if you qualify for free fixtures for residents that want to switch to lower use fixtures

3. Purchase water efficient appliances such as dishwashers and clothes washers

Purchasing a more water efficient dishwasher or clothes washer can decrease the amount of water used by up to 30%, and help you save up to $70 per year
Check out Marin Municipal Water District's High-Efficiency Clothes Washer Rebate Program

4. Plant more drought tolerant species in lawns and gardens

Planting more drought tolerant species can help reduce household water consumption significantly. Marin Master Gardeners are a great resource for advice on improving the health of your garden and surrounding plant life
Be sure to check this list of Plants to Avoid to get information on invasive species and plants that have been treated

5. Upgrade irrigation systems in your garden and check for leaks

Drip irrigation systems lay on the bed of the garden and drip out water directly to the root system of plants, eliminating water waste
Installing a rain barrel capture system is a great way to reduce your water bill. Marin Municipal Water District offers a rain capture system rebate of $0.75 per gallon of captured rainwater, up to $2,000 per customer