Resources
Resources for water conservation

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Leave It Better WM
A partnership between Navajo County, the City of Show Low, the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside, the American Ground Water Trust and Arizona Water Company.
💧 Storing Rainwater? Do It Safely! 🛑🌧️![]()
If you're diving into active rainwater harvesting, proper storage and filtration are key to keeping your system safe, efficient, & mosquito-free! 👇 🦟
⚠️ Warning: If you're storing water for more than 36 hours, you must use mosquito-proof screens to prevent breeding and contamination. ⚠️![]()
🌿 For a reliable setup, make sure your system includes:![]()
🔹 Collection Area – Your roof serves as the main catchment surface.
🔹 Conveyance System – Gutters, downspouts, and piping help move water where it needs to go. Don’t forget a first flush diverter and overflow outlet.
🔹 Filtration – Use gutter screens, a rain head screen, inlet screen, and overflow flap to keep debris out.
🔹 Storage – Rain barrels, tanks, or cisterns (above or below ground) should include an air relief vent to manage airflow and pressure.
🔹 Valves – A first flush flow control valve and drain valve or hose bib make maintenance easy and water access simple.![]()
Thinking about setting up your own system or improving an old one? We’re here to help you make every drop count—safely! 💦🌎
💧 Collect Rainwater the Simple Way – No Gutters Needed! 🌧️![]()
⚠️ Important: Water collected through these methods is non-potable—it’s best used for gardening or outdoor cleaning. Always use it quickly to avoid standing water that can attract mosquitoes! ⚠️
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Active rainwater harvesting doesn’t require a complex system—just a little creativity! While gutters and downspouts are most efficient, here are some easy, low-tech ways to start collecting rain:![]()
🔷 Tarp: Stretch a tarp between trees or poles with the center sagging lower than the corners. Cut a small hole in the lowest point and place a container beneath it to catch the water.![]()
🔷 DIY V-Channel: Use a bent piece of metal or two sealed boards to form a V-shape. Angle it so water flows down to the lowest end—then catch it in a bucket or barrel.![]()
🔷 Drip Patterns: Next time it rains, observe where water drips most from your roof, shed, or fence line. Set containers under the heaviest flows—or add diverters to guide it into a collection bin.![]()
Every drop helps, especially in dry times. Just be sure to use it quickly and wisely! 🌿💦
🌧️ Monsoon Season Ready? Let’s Talk Active Rainwater Harvesting! 💧![]()
Unlike passive systems that soak water directly into the ground, active rainwater harvesting involves collecting rainwater through gutters and downspouts into rain barrels, tanks, or even simple buckets for future use. 🌿![]()
This stored water is a lifesaver during dry spells and works wonders for edible landscapes—think vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and herbs! 🍅🍋🌻![]()
🌟 Thinking about installing a system? We’ve got a guide with the best practices to help get you started the right way! 👇
wrrc.arizona.edu/sites/wrrc.arizona.edu/files/rain%20barrel%20water%20harvesting%20guide_1.pdf
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🛑 Reminder: A strong passive system—aka earthworks—is the foundation for a successful active setup! So if you didn’t catch our previous posts this year, be sure to visit them to learn how to build your landscape’s natural sponge first! 🌱
**(Refer to our March "Passive Rainwater Harvesting" posts for all of the details! 😉)
Across our great state, one message is clear: Arizonans care about water. 🌎 ![]()
According to a recent survey:
🔹 87% of respondents agree that water conservation is essential for our communities and our region’s future.
🔹 81% believe that saving water is just as important in the White Mountains as it is in the Valley.![]()
As one resident shared:
“Water is a precious resource no matter where one lives.”![]()
Another reminded us all:
“Water conservation is important in all of Arizona. We are all subject to drought conditions.”![]()
At Arizona Water Company, we are proud to serve a state that understands the value of conservation. No matter where you live — in the desert, the mountains, or somewhere in between — your actions matter. 👏 💚 💙 ![]()
Let’s keep working together to protect Arizona’s water for today and tomorrow.
💧 🌎 ![]()
#AZWater #ConserveAZ #WaterMatters #ArizonaWaterCompany
Mulch is a game-changer for your summer vegetable garden! It offers several benefits that will help your plants grow strong and conserve water in the hot Arizona sun: 🌞 🍂 ![]()
🔹 Keeps Soil Cool – Mulch helps insulate the soil, preventing it from getting too hot and protecting your plant roots from the harsh sun.
🔹 Reduces Water Waste – By reducing evaporation, mulch can cut your watering needs by 25% to 50%, helping you save water and money!
🔹 Prevents Weeds – A good layer of mulch blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, keeping your garden free from unwanted competition.
🔹 Improves Water Absorption – Mulch helps water penetrate the soil more effectively, reducing runoff and ensuring your plants get the moisture they need.![]()
Using mulch not only makes watering more efficient but also keeps your veggies healthy and thriving through the summer heat! 🌿🍅![]()
🔻 For more information on mulch options, check out this guide: 🔻 extension.arizona.edu/sites/extension.arizona.edu/files/attachment/Mulches.pdf
Arizona Water Company
Email: savewater@azwater.com
Phone: (602) 294-2479
Website: www.azwater.com
American Groundwater Trust
Email: sara@agwt.org
Website: agwt.org
Town of Pinetop - Lakeside
Email: talba@pinetoplakesideaz.gov
Phone: (928) 368-8696 ext. 240
Website: www.pinetoplakesideaz.gov
Navajo County
Email: rochelle.lacapa@navajocountyaz.gov
Phone: (928) 524-4113
Website: www.navajocountyaz.gov
City of Show Low
Email: gpayne@showlowaz.gov
Phone: (928) 532-4017
Website: www.showlowaz.gov