Topic: conserve water

High Ohio River water makes trash obvious

April 8th, 2008
While the Ohio River was near flood stage a few days ago, it was clear to see from either side of the waterway, that trash litters the riverbanks. When the high water begins to recede, what is left on the banks is garbage from miles upstream.

Much of what is seen floating by is actually recyclable: plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and tin cans for starters. The rest is a combination of trees and brush, tires, styrofoam, large pieces of metal and more.

The majority of parks and recreational areas along the river do an good job of providing trash cans at all times. During events, recycling is usually also available. The rest is up to the picnic goers, fishermen, boaters, and locals who spend a nice afternoon at the water’s edge.

The Ohio River is a main source of drinking water for more than 3 million people and keeping it clean requires a lot of effort. ORSANCO is an organization established to control and abate pollution in the Ohio River basin. They have developed water pollution control standards for the protection of aquatic life, drinking water and recreational uses of the Ohio River.

On June 21st, ORSANCO’s next River Sweep will take place. When details are available, we will let you know how you can get involved in keeping our river as clean as it can be.
Topics: conserve water | 2 Comments »

Use less water, keep plants healthy

June 12th, 2007


The nation has been in a bit of a drought, and it’s affecting Cincinnati as well. I know something’s up when I make it through a whole session of softball without any rainouts.

I met a woman on my vacation who said in New Mexico, droughts come with the territory and if you want to have any plants that require maintenance, you need to have a rain barrel.

A rain barrel is just that, a way to store water coming through your downspout so that you can utilize it on your yard. It’s a free way to water the grass, and will help the nation’s water store last longer and sustain our health and sanitation during drought-like conditions.

You can find a rain barrel at farm supply stores, or make your own.

Topics: conserve water, green building | 2 Comments »

A lawn without water

April 24th, 2007

Spring brings out the green in our grass, but can also bring out the hose and the sprinkler. Almost a third of all residential water goes toward lawns and gardens according to the EPA. Instead of water-intensive landscaping, try xeriscaping in your yard.

Xeriscaping techniques use drought tolerant and native plants as well as rocks and soils that do not require nearly as much maintenance as a standard yard. Check out some examples online or speak with your local greenhouse to find out more about choosing plants that conserve water.

Topics: conserve water | 1 Comment »
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