<p>With temperatures in the Portland metro area flirting with triple digits over the weekend and into next week, conserving water is especially important. <a href="http://conserveh2o.org/using-water-efficiently-outdoors" title="outdoor">Outdoor</a> water use is up, and there&#39;s no rain in sight to replenish supplies.</p>
<h3>We can all do our part to use water wisely &ndash; here are 8 easy tips to get you started:</h3>
<ol>
	<li><strong>Adjust your sprinklers</strong> so that they&rsquo;re watering your landscape and not your sidewalk or street.</li>
	<li><strong>Water lawns and gardens early in the morning</strong> or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler and evaporation is minimized.</li>
	<li><strong>Water in several short sessions</strong> rather than one long session to allow for better water absorption and to prevent run-off.</li>
	<li><strong>On average, lawns need 1 inch of water per week</strong>, though you may need to water more in hotter weather.</li>
	<li><strong>Use the Consortium&rsquo;s weather-based <a href="http://conserveh2o.org/weekly-watering-number" title="Weekly Watering Number">Weekly Watering Number</a></strong> to find out how much your lawn or garden needs each week.&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Adjust your mower to a higher setting</strong>.&nbsp; A taller lawn provides shade to the roots and helps retain soil moisture, so your lawn requires less water.</li>
	<li><strong>If you hand-water your plants</strong>, be sure to install a &ldquo;shut-off&rdquo; nozzle to avoid water waste.</li>
	<li><strong>Sweep your driveway or sidewalk</strong> rather than using a hose.&nbsp; It&rsquo;s good exercise and saves water.</li>
</ol>
<p>Find out more tips for conserving water outdoors <a href="http://conserveh2o.org/outdoor-water-conservation-tips" title="here">here</a>.</p>
