Drought & Water Savings

Sustaining water resources for future generations

Water conservation is critical for maintaining healthy land and productive operations. With increasing drought conditions and unpredictable weather, practices like efficient irrigation, cover cropping, mulching, and securing natural water sources can help improve soil moisture retention and reduce water waste.

  • Use drip irrigation: Install drip irrigation systems that target water directly to plant roots, minimizing water loss.
  • Mulch to conserve moisture: Apply organic mulch around crops to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Monitor water use: Regularly check irrigation systems to ensure efficiency and prevent over-watering.

Struggling with water shortages on your farm?

Check out the resources below or contact your local conservation district to learn more about sustainable water management strategies.

Find Your Conservation District

Explore Conservation Resources

Burke Herbarium Image Collection
The Burke Museum

The Burke Herbarium Image Collection provides an extensive online database of plant, fungi, and lichen specimens, including high-resolution images and detailed records. It supports botanical research, identification, and education, particularly for species in the Pacific Northwest.

PLANTS Database
United State Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service

The USDA PLANTS Database (Plant List of Accepted Nomenclature, Taxonomy, and Symbols) is a resource offering detailed information on plant species across the United States, including their taxonomy, distribution, and conservation status. It supports research, education, and land management with tools like plant guides and an extensive image library.

The Pacific Northwest Herbaria Consortium
"Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture University of Washington Herbarium"

The Pacific Northwest Herbaria Consortium provides an online database for exploring plant specimen data from herbaria across the region, supporting botanical research and conservation. It offers tools for mapping, identifying, and studying native plants and their distributions.

U.S. Drought Monitor
National Drought Mitigation Center

The U.S. Drought Monitor provides up-to-date maps and data on drought conditions across the United States, categorizing drought severity from "Abnormally Dry" (D0) to "Exceptional Drought" (D4). Updated weekly, it serves as a vital resource for understanding current drought statuses and trends nationwide.

Water Kids
Water Education Foundation

This resource offers engaging content to teach children about water science, the water cycle, and the significance of water conservation.

Water Savings
Washington Department of Ecology

The Washington State Department of Ecology's Water Conservation webpage offers practical tips and resources to help residents use water efficiently and avoid waste. By adopting simple daily habits, individuals can contribute to preserving this finite resource, ensuring adequate water supply for current and future needs.