Beatriss Calhoun, Water Resources Extension Agent
When In Drought, Think it Out!
Have you ever thought about the phrase “April showers bring May flowers”? It’s a popular saying that describes April as a traditionally rainy season leading into a vibrant, blooming May. Some people take it literally, while others see it as a metaphor for growth after gloomy conditions. However, this year, that traditional expectation does not match our current reality. According to the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), 87.65% of Charleston was experiencing an extreme (D3) drought as of April 21, 2026 making this one of the driest spring seasons recorded.
In conditions like these, the conversation around water will need to shift. It’s not just about using less water, but also about using water more thoughtfully and getting the most out of every drop. Being smart with water doesn’t always require expensive systems or major lifestyle changes. In fact, some of the most effective strategies are as simple as rethinking everyday routines. Below are a few practical and creative ways to stretch your water use without sacrificing your daily routines.
Sprinkler Placement
Your lawn’s size, shape, soil type, and water pressure all play an important role in choosing the right sprinkler system. However, even the best system can fall short if placed incorrectly. Poor positioning can lead to runoff, uneven coverage, and wasted water. This works against your conservation and cost saving goals. A factsheet titled “Landscape Irrigation Management Part 3: How Much Water?” on Clemson Extension Home & Garden Information Center is a great place to calibrate how much water to use.
Tip:
· Make sure all connections are leak-proof by adding plumber’s (Teflon) tape to the threaded ends of hoses.
· Check that sprinkler heads are free of clogs to ensure even distribution.
· Position sprinklers so they target the areas that need water most. Systems placed too close to pavement or angled away from plant life can reduce absorption and increase waste.
· Having native plants in your home landscape help reduce the need for irrigation water.
· Schedule and check the scheduling of your on and off times. Make sure sprinkler system time frames are when the most water will be saturated in the ground and turn systems of during rainfall events.
Wash Vehicle on Lawn
Washing your car on the lawn is a simple way to make every gallon do double duty. Instead of letting wastewater (effluent) from vehicle washing run off into the street, it can soak into the soil and benefit your landscape. This approach also helps reduce runoff entering storm drains.
Tip:
· Use eco-friendly car wash products that are biodegradable, phosphate-free, or plant-based to minimize environmental impact.
Conservation Can Be Fun
Water conservation doesn’t have to feel restrictive. You can easily make it fun with activities you already enjoy. As temperatures rise, many families turn to water-based play to stay cool. With a little planning, that water can be reused instead of wasted. Water from inflatable pools, splash pads, or slip-and-slides can be redirected to your lawn or garden, giving it a second purpose.
Tip:
· Avoid adding harsh chemicals to the water in a temporary pool if you plan to reuse it.
· Use watering cans to transfer water to garden beds.
· For larger volumes, a small pump or siphon system can save time and effort.
Water conservation doesn’t have to mean major sacrifices or complicated systems. As the examples above show, small adjustments, like where you place a sprinkler, how you wash your car, or what you do with leftover water, can make a meaningful difference. When those small choices add up, they help protect one of our most valuable resources. Being mindful of water isn’t just a response to drought; it is a habit that supports year-round water conservation.
References:
https://www.drought.gov/states/south-carolina/county/charleston
Landscape Irrigation Management Part 3: How Much Water? | Home & Garden Information Center
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