The city of Dallas (Dallas), North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) and Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) are the largest water providers in the region. These partners are responsible for the current water needs of more than 7 million residents, which is expected to almost double by 2070.

Part of their long-term conservation approach includes a public awareness campaign to increase the adoption of water-saving behaviors, water waste reduction and promoting the importance of water and the value it provides.

Since 2019, Dallas, NTMWD and TRWD have teamed together on a joint campaign called “Water is Awesome.” Working together allows them to split the cost of creative development, production and advertising. The target audience for the campaign is typically homeowners and renters with a focus to reduce outdoor water use. Promotion includes television, radio, print, digital and outdoor advertising in both English and Spanish. With an established website and YouTube channel, they have also developed additional educational videos and resources.

In 2023, a campaign was introduced with the theme of “Texas Yard Makeover,” with episodes showcasing different ways to save water in the landscape. New this year, Texas Yard Makeover is introducing a spinoff show, “Weekend Edition,” featuring ways to save water outdoors with small projects. Here are some  tips to save water this summer:

Know the Schedule: Most cities and water providers have some form of watering schedules. They typically include no watering from sprinklers between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and only allow spray irrigation on one or two days per week. Check the water provider’s website for the schedule.

When to water: The middle of the night to early morning is best. Water deep and infrequently to build strong turf roots that can better withstand our summers. Infrequently means to never water on more than two days per week.

Cycle and Soak: Many lawns in North Texas have clay soils, and this makes it difficult for water to reach deep into the ground without causing a lot of runoff. Run short cycles and let the water slowly soak into the ground. After an hour, run another short cycle to soak that water further into the soil. Short cycles could be six minutes for fixed sprays and 13 minutes for rotors. Multiple cycles or start times can add up to the amount of water the lawn needs that week.

Sign Up For Watering Updates: WaterIsAwesome.com Weekly Watering Advice and Water My Yard are great tools to help answer questions every Monday through email or text.

Check For Problems: Watering in the middle of the night is efficient, but may not alert homeowners to issues that need correction. Conduct a two-minute visual test of all sprinkler zones at least monthly. Redirect sprays that are watering concrete and flag any leaks. Many adjustments and repairs can be done quickly.

Making Changes: If there are large amounts of turfgrass, consider making adjustments to the landscape to save water. One option is to design with the rule of thirds: one-third useable lawn, one-third landscape beds with native plants and one-third hardscape, such as patios and walkways.

Water and everything behind it, from the pipelines in the ground and the people that keep it flowing, is essential for supporting the economy, fire protection, public health and our quality of life in North Texas. Water conservation is one strategy to help meet the needs of a growing population.

For more information, visit WaterIsAwesome.com.