by Carin Kirkegaard

Water is an important commodity in Colorado’s semi-arid climate, and it is important to conserve whenever possible. Since 2003, the Castle Pines North Metro District (CPNMD) has provided the community with a mandatory watering schedule.

Residents should have received a schedule by mail in late April. The circle, diamond, square third day watering program is a tool that helps keep the Castle Pines North (CPN) water supply at an acceptable level and aids in water conservation. This not only meets residents’ watering needs, but prevents the water supply from drastically dropping and helps balance demand.

The average CPN home uses nearly four times more water in the summer months than in the winter. It is important to not only follow the community watering schedule, but residents can also take other steps in water conservation.

Residents should only water lawns between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Watering during night time hours prevents evaporation from hot and windy weather so common in Colorado summers. One common myth is watering at night promotes the growth of mold and fungus on lawns. The dry conditions of Colorado prevent this occurrence.

Another way to conserve water is to closely follow the rainfall in CPN. The CPN Master Association keeps moisture statistics and updates totals on the website. On days where Mother Nature has provided, turn sprinklers off when there has been sufficient rainfall in the area. Save money, and save water!

To view the 2006 watering schedule click here.