America is in the midst of the most severe drought in recent memory. Soils are parched, wells are dry, and reservoirs are depleted. Rural farmers, small towns, and cities now face water shortages across the country.

While droughts are a natural phenomenon, the length of this drought - now several years long in some areas - is a frightening development. While there is little states can do to make it rain (some are talking about cloud seeding), legislators can help to make the available water go further with proper planning practices.

Many states and communities have adopted policies to encourage more efficient use of water because the resulting economic and environmental benefits will continue to pay dividends long after a drought has passed. Some states are legislating particular conservation measures statewide, while others are making state financial assistance or permit approval contingent upon local implementation of “best management practices” to improve water use efficiency. Since urban water use inevitably leads to demands on wastewater treatment systems, water conservation is now seen as an important tool for achieving water quality objectives, even in regions where water supplies are not scarce.

This website offers the educational tools necessary for you to promote water conservation in your state, including talking points, press links, a fact pack, research, and other background information.

We have other useful materials not yet posted on the site, so please contact us by email at info@serconline.org or call our office at (608) 252-9800 for more information.