Drought 2026: 10 simple tips to save water at home this summer

SALEM, Ore. - With much of Oregon facing drought this summer, every Oregonian can do their part to conserve and make the most of the water they use.

The Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) is providing these simple and inexpensive tips to help save water - both this summer and into the future. OWRD thanks the Regional Water Providers Consortium for sharing their research on water conservation and offering information on saving water in six languages.

"Taking action to save water now helps mitigate some of the most severe drought impacts on the communities and ecosystems that rely on our water supplies," said Ivan Gall, director of the Oregon Water Resources Department. "You'll be pitching in with wise water use, now and in the future."

Here are some simple ways to help:

• Measure your sprinkler use: Many people overwater. Learn how you can easily see how much water your sprinkler uses.
• Check your toilet for leaks: Toilet leaks can waste hundreds of gallons of water a month.
• Water deeply twice a week instead of daily: This helps root growth and gives plants the water they need to thrive without overwatering.
• Install water-efficient aerators: Aerators cost about five dollars and are easy to install on home faucets.
• Water when it's cool: Early morning or late evening watering minimizes evaporation.
• Watch for outdoor leaks: Make sure your watering system is ready for its summer workout by maintaining your sprinkler system and tightening hose connections so they're drip-free.
• Add mulch and compost: Adding a layer to garden beds helps soil hold moisture longer.
• Save water in the bathroom: WaterSense fixtures use at least 20% less water.
• Adjust how much you water throughout the season: The amount of water plants need changes with weather conditions.
• Let your dishwasher do the work: They use less water per load than handwashing dishes.

If you live in the greater Portland area, you can also sign up with the Consortium to receive your Weekly Watering Number. Just put in your zip code and you'll get messages about when to start watering and how much to water each week based on local conditions.

Because water sources and supplies vary widely by location, check in monthly with your water provider to see if they have specific water use guidelines for their customers.

To help stay up-to-date on drought in Oregon, OWRD issues a Drought and Water Supply Conditions report every two weeks. You can find the latest report online and sign up for future editions at owrd.info/getdroughtupdate.

For more ways to conserve water, visit owrd.info/savewater and regionalh2o.org/water-conservation.