#USA #Maryland #Drought #water conservation #Maryland American Water

Maryland American Water Urges Efficient Water Use amid Rising Drought Concerns

As Maryland braces for a summer with soaring temperatures and diminishing rainfall, Maryland American Water is putting a spotlight on the essential practice of conserving water. Following the U.S. Drought Monitor's alarming report revealing stark drought conditions across the region, the utility company is leaning into proactive measures to ensure the protection of local water supplies.

According to recent assessments, Maryland is facing one of the driest summers in recent history, attributed to three successive years of diminished rainfall and an increase in hotter days. The Maryland Department of the Environment has classified the state under severe drought conditions, which has heightened the need for water conservation practices among residents.

Jeff Barton, the Operations Manager at Maryland American Water, conveyed the gravity of the situation: "At Maryland American Water, wise water use extends beyond seasonal worries; it’s a year-round principle. As temperatures rise, the demand for water surges as well. Simple actions taken at home or outdoors can truly aid in preserving local water resources. Not only is conserving water vital for environmental reasons, but it can also lead to reduced utility costs for customers."

The utility has laid out several recommended practices for homeowners, aiming to promote more energy-efficient water usage throughout the summer months. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Watering Timings: Aim to water your gardens in the early morning or late evening to decrease evaporation losses that typically occur during midday heat.
2. Rainwater Harvesting: Consider utilizing rain barrels to collect and store rainwater for irrigation purposes.
3. Sprinkler Inspection: Regularly check your sprinkler systems to ensure they direct water only where it’s needed, avoiding waste on pavements and driveways.
4. Outdoor Cleaning: Use a broom instead of hoses to clean outdoor spaces like patios and driveways, conserving a significant amount of water.
5. Mulching: Apply a two to three-inch layer of mulch in garden beds to retain moisture, which not only helps reduce necessary watering frequency but also curbs weed growth.
6. Lawn Mowing: Raising your mower blades can promote a healthier lawn; grass cut at heights between 2.5 to 3.5 inches tends to withstand drought conditions more effectively.
7. Leaky Faucets: Regularly inspect for leaks, as even minor ones can waste hundreds of gallons annually. Statistics indicate that 10% of homes have leaks that can waste over 90 gallons a day.

To assist Maryland American Water customers in tracking their water usage, the company offers the MyWater online portal, which grants access to two years of water consumption data. The portal also features utilities aimed at managing bills and accessing customer support programs.

For more tips on water conservation, including guidelines for indoor practices, the Maryland American Water website also offers tailored resources for residents looking to minimize their water waste in an increasingly arid climate.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) stands as the largest utility company in the U.S. offering water and wastewater services. Established in 1886 and marking 140 years in operations in 2026, it serves around 14 million people across 14 states while also catering to military installations. With a commitment to safe and affordable water supply, American Water harnesses its expertise and national scale to benefit its broad customer base.

About Maryland American Water

As a subsidiary of American Water, Maryland American Water is dedicated to providing safe and reliable water services to approximately 26,000 residents. For further information, explore their website.