Abundance of rain means it’s time to turn off the irrigation timer

One of the top ten highest rainfall monsoons on record has been providing ample moisture for the landscape. In fact, last night’s storm provided even more rain across Mesa following downpours earlier in the week.  For those residents who have not already thought about it, this is the time to use the “off”, “stop” or “rain” setting on the irrigation controller to stop the watering cycle without disturbing your programs.

Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on their landscape to determine when to turn the controller back on. Use a soil probe or long screwdriver to test the wetness of the ground. When the probe no longer slides easily into the soil, the plants need water again.

For residents interested in receiving a free monthly watering reminder, the City has an e-mail news list to remind subscribers of the watering frequency for the different times of year. Any Valley resident can subscribe, then once each month, subscribers will receive watering recommendations via e-mail. The service also sends reminders to turn off irrigation when there has been adequate rainfall.

By changing watering schedules seasonally, residents can save up to 50 percent on outdoor watering, help conserve water and save some money too. To register for this valuable, free service offered by the City of Mesa, visit www.cityofmesa.org and select E-mail News Lists from the left navigation bar. Choose Landscape Watering Reminder and follow the registration instructions. You can remove your name from the list at any time. You can also view the monthly reminder, and learn more about Mesa’s water conservation programs at www.cityofmesa.org/utilities/conservation.