Saving money, saving energy, saving water – these are all good reasons to learn more about water conservation. And, as Ben Franklin said: “When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” Despite drought-like conditions during several past summers in different parts of the country, the eastern U.S. typically has enough rainfall that we do not make water conservation headlines. However, a different kind of “drought” is occurring under our feet. I’m talking about our groundwater. In many areas, especially urban areas, we use groundwater faster than we can replenish it.
Groundwater is water in the subsurface soil pores and rock crevices. Groundwater is the water source and supply for wells. What is happening now is the amount of groundwater recharging many of our country’s urban area aquifers is significantly less than the amount we are extracting. Groundwater is the primary source of drinking water in many cities, which is a vital issue even if your area isn’t in an official drought.
Water conservation requires changing habits and expectations from businesses and residents for commercial, household, and outdoor water usage. Now is the time for everyone to do their part, especially with summer coming, a time of year that strains our aquifers as many people water gardens and lawns.
Because we use water in so many places, the list of ways to conserve is virtually endless and is not hard to do. They include everything from changing how you water your lawn and garden to what appliances you buy.
Mow Higher, Less Frequently
For an established lawn, refrain from watering during the summer – just let it go browner like it wants to when it is dry. It will green up when the rains return. An exception to this occurs during some summers when extended dry periods combined with unusually high temperatures cause the grass to die. However, your lawn will be fine since most summer weather conditions are milder. WaterSense has many more tips that save water and money on your outdoor water bill.
You can use collected rainwater for lawn and garden watering between rain events. Consider installing a rain barrel to collect rainwater (be sure to place a screen over the top or use the water fast to prevent mosquitos from breeding). Of course, you can also mulch your flower and vegetable gardens to reduce evaporation from the soil and water your garden only when needed. Thick enough mulch also cuts down on the number of weeds.
Look for Water Conservation Rebates
You can also use water-saving products in your home or business, such as low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and low-flush toilets. Some municipalities even have toilet rebate programs to promote changing out older toilets. When purchasing a dishwasher or washing machine, consider energy- and water-efficient ones, such as EnergyStar and WaterSense-certified appliances. Whether or not you purchase energy and water-efficient appliances, you can always fill dishwashers and washing machines to their capacity before running them, which reduces the amount of water used by needing to operate them less.
Thirsting for More?
Other water-saving tips include easy changes in hygiene habits. If, for example, you choose to take 5-minute showers instead of 10-minute showers, the typical person can save over 10,000 gallons of water per year. Consider taking a “military shower” by turning the water off for lathering and on again during rinsing. Also, try turning the faucet off when scrubbing your hands or brushing your teeth, and turn the water on again for rinsing.
If you decide to implement these suggestions, you will do your part to conserve our water now and for future generations. Every little bit makes a difference!
Helpful Resources:
Join SCS Engineers at NACW 2025, March 25-27 in Los Angeles, CA!
SCS Engineers is excited to attend North American Carbon World (NACW) 2025, the leading conference on climate policy and carbon markets. This event unites industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to discuss key trends, challenges, and solutions in the low-carbon economy.
We’re proud to have Erin Quinn and Ray Huff as speakers, sharing insights on carbon mitigation, emissions tracking, and sustainability. Their expertise will help attendees navigate regulations and market-based climate strategies.
With engaging sessions, expert analysis, and top networking opportunities, NACW 2025 is the place to shape the future of climate action. Register today—we look forward to seeing you there!
Meet Our Speakers:
Erin Quinn: Mr. Erin Quinn has two decades of experience in environmental consulting, specializing in air quality, environmental assessments, and greenhouse gas (GHG) consulting, reporting, and verification. He has participated in hundreds of GHG verification projects throughout the United States, specializes in air permitting and reporting in California and the Southwest, and has completed GHG verification training in California, Oregon, and Washington.
Ray Huff: Ray Huff, REPA, is a Vice President of SCS Engineers and our National Expert on Greenhouse Gas. He has three decades of experience in environmental consulting, and specializes in landfill regulatory compliance; air quality/compliance issues, including GHG emissions quantification; and site assessment, remediation, and post-closure care. Mr. Huff is an Accredited Lead Verifier under California Air Resources Board (CARB) with Transactions, Oil and Gas Systems, and Process Emissions Specializations, and a Registered Environmental Property Assessor (REPA).
Join SCS for a unique off-site experience at WasteExpo 2025, where you’ll discover how landfills can be repurposed into thriving disc golf courses and play a round of Disc Golf! SCS Engineers and Innova Champion Discs host this event, combining education, sustainability, and fun. Perfect for innovative landfill redevelopment, outdoor recreation, and sustainability.
Attendees will:
Join our speakers and professionals at WasteExpo, North America’s largest tradeshow for solid waste, recycling, organics, and sustainability. Find us at Booth 2109, just inside the right main entrance. SCS Engineers partners with public and private sectors to improve efficiency in solid waste, renewable energy, materials management, and wastewater solutions. We help clients adapt to environmental, social, economic, and regulatory changes. Ask about wastewater, leachate, PFAS treatment, GHG and methane monitoring, sustainability planning, and compost pilot programs. Register now!
Sonya Betker – Food Recovery Forum on Monday, May 5, 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Plenary Session: Impact of Food Waste on Methane Emissions, Reducing Food Loss & Waste, Financing Food Waste Recovery and Organics Recycling, Mitigating Climate Effects. Mapping methane, financing recycling programs, and how the Circular Economy presents a transformative approach to addressing wasted food and unsustainable food production.
Bob Dick – Operations, Fleet & Safety on Monday, May 5, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Safety Within Your Walls & Beyond – Shop, Fleet/Equipment & On the Street will address some areas you’ll want to examine more closely. Shop safety is essential to any fleet, but it is not often a top priority.
Brett Wilks – Food Recovery Forum on Monday, May 5, 12:15 PM – 2:00 PM
Solutions for Household Food Waste Reduction – Leveraging Research Data and Consumer Behavior. Includes Are You Going to Eat That? – A crash course in kitchen conservation and the motivation, opportunity, and ability to prevent and minimize food waste.
Dr. Erik Anderson – Organics Recycling on Monday, May 5, 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM
Anaerobic Digestion: technologies, selection criteria, case studies, and GHG reduction will cover the engineering and design considerations for the anaerobic digestion of waste organics and how to choose the right technology.
Pat Sullivan – Organics Recycling on Tuesday, May 6, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Composting: Air Emissions, Economic Impact, Reducing Contamination is a jam-packed session covering the current state of air emissions data for composting facilities, contamination standards, and economic impacts of composting.
David Hostetter – Business Insights & Policy on Wednesday, May 7, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Landfill Methane Emissions Regulations & Opportunity covers how regulators and environmental groups worldwide closely examine the climate effects of landfill methane emissions. This session will explore the rapidly evolving best practices to track and manage those emissions. Attendees will also get updates on current regulatory issues and how certain emerging measurement technologies fit into regulatory trends.
Waste to Play: Transforming Landfills into Disc Golf Courses
Join SCS for a unique off-site experience at WasteExpo 2025, where you’ll discover how landfills can be repurposed into thriving disc golf courses and play a round of Disc Golf! SCS Engineers and Innova Champion Discs host this event, combining education, sustainability, and fun. Perfect for innovative landfill redevelopment, outdoor recreation, and sustainability.
You will:
Join SCS Engineers at the ISWA 2025 World Congress & Exhibition, taking place October 27-29 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This premier global event, declared of National Tourist Interest by the Secretary of Tourism, Environment, and Sports of Argentina, brings together industry leaders, policymakers, scientists, and young professionals to drive innovation in waste management and the circular economy.
Each industrial revolution has shaped the way we handle waste—what will be the defining waste challenge of the 4th Industrial Revolution? Discover how the Latin America and Caribbean region is tackling these challenges and advancing circular economy solutions.
Be part of the conversation. Connect with SCS Engineers as we explore cutting-edge strategies for sustainable resource management and a zero-waste future. See you in Buenos Aires!
Join SCS Engineers at the 2025 IIAR Natural Refrigeration Conference & Heavy Equipment Expo March 2-5 in Phoenix, Arizona. SCS Engineers is excited to participate in the 2025 IIAR Natural Refrigeration Conference & Heavy Equipment Expo—the largest event dedicated to the natural refrigeration industry. This conference offers a unique platform for attendees and exhibitors to connect, learn, and showcase the latest advancements in natural refrigeration. Register now!
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
SCS Engineers is proud to have two of our experts presenting during the conference:
Join Douglas Latulippe as he explores sustainable energy-saving strategies and highlights the collaborative efforts necessary to achieve significant energy efficiency gains.
Topic: Sustainable Energy Savings Takes an Army
Track: Carbon Tracking/Decarbonization – Energy Management
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 4th, 4:35 PM – 5:35 PM
Location: North 129 A-B
Bill Lape provides an in-depth analysis of the EPA’s new Risk Management Plan (RMP) requirements and offer actionable suggestions for compliance.
Topic: EPA’s New RMP Requirements and Suggestions for Compliance
Track: System Safety – Regulatory Compliance (PSM, RMP, GDC); System Design – Ammonia Refrigeration Systems
Date & Time: Monday, March 3rd, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
We look forward to seeing you in Phoenix! Be sure to attend these insightful sessions and visit SCS Engineers to learn more about our innovative solutions in natural refrigeration.
Join SCS Engineers at the Alabama Coastal Foundation’s 11th Annual Sustainability Summit! ACF’s Sustainability Summit is an annual gathering designed to bring together leaders from the private, public, and social sectors to explore the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable practices.
This year’s event, themed “Future Signposts: Learning how to improve, protect, and celebrate our environment,” is on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The Lodge @ Gulf State Park.
SCS Engineers’ Joy Stephens will present “Greenhouse Gas Inventories: The Keystone of Decarbonization Strategies” from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., providing valuable insights into how greenhouse gas inventories play a critical role in decarbonization efforts.
Join SCS Engineers at the Alabama Coastal Foundation’s 11th Annual Sustainability Summit! ACF’s Sustainability Summit is an annual gathering designed to bring together leaders from the private, public, and social sectors to explore the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable practices.
This year’s event, themed “Future Signposts: Learning how to improve, protect, and celebrate our environment,” is Friday, January 31, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The Lodge @ Gulf State Park. SCS Engineers’ Joy Stephens will present “Greenhouse Gas Inventories: The Keystone of Decarbonization Strategies” from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., providing valuable insights into how greenhouse gas inventories play a critical role in decarbonization efforts.
Join SCS Engineers at SWANA Young Professionals Green Drinks, August 23rd 6-8 pm at San Pedro Square Market, where you can explore an exciting and impactful career path in sustainability and learn more about the circular economy. This is your chance to network with industry experts, enjoy drinks and appetizers, and discover unique career opportunities that make a difference in our communities by reducing waste and combating climate change. Whether you’re just starting out, considering a career transition, or simply looking to connect with others in the field, this event offers valuable insights and connections to help you engage with the circular economy. Hear from speakers representing the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), Northern California Recycling Association (NCRA), Enthalpy Analytical, SCS Engineers, Mainspring Energy, and more. Bring a friend and get ready to explore the diverse career paths this industry has to offer! Register today!
Join SCS Engineers at the California Resource Recovery Association (CRRA) 2024 Conference and Tradeshow, August 18th-21st at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA. As a Silver Sponsor, SCS Engineers is proud to participate in the conference themed “Shifting the Conversation.” The CRRA Annual Conference and Trade Show attracts over 600 attendees and features an estimated 30 sessions with more than 100 industry experts presenting. This is an excellent opportunity to network with professionals, learn from the best in the field, and explore innovative solutions for recycling and sustainability. Each year, the CRRA organizes one of the most comprehensive and informative conferences dedicated to recycling and sustainable materials management in California and beyond. Learn more about the conference or register and join us here: CRRA 2024 – Conference and Trade Show • Anaheim, CA Aug 18th-21st, 2024 — California Resource Recovery Association
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