No need for sprinklers this spring

Because of the rainfall, the grass is a bright shade of hunter green, the rivers are flowing high and the flowers, both in gardens and growing wild, are blooming without sprinklers or watering cans.

According to Oklahoma Mesonet, an average of 9.96 inches of rain fell in Oklahoma since April 1 giving the state its second wettest season since 1921. Because of the abundant moisture, it is recommended to limit outdoor water use and turn off sprinklers. Doing so will save money and reduce water usage.

Justin Moss, associate professor of turfgrass science at Oklahoma State University said despite the recent rain, reducing water use should still be a priority.

“In addition to turning off sprinklers, a climate-based controller or a soil moisture sensor is a great way to save water,” Moss said. “Research through OSU Cooperative Extension shows irrigation technology prevents overwatering. Devices like the Toro Precision ^TM Soil Sensor are great for residential use.”

The moisture from the recent rain will quench the soil for at least one week and with more rainfall expected in the forecast, sprinklers should remain off for the next seven to 10 days. Supplemental watering can continue once dry soil conditions resume.

While water is an important factor in a healthy Oklahoma, smart water usage is essential and conserving it guarantees a strong environment for the state’s future.

For more information on water conservation, please refer to the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service’s Guide to Saving Water in the Home Landscape or the Smart Irrigation Technology: Controllers and Sensors fact sheet, which can be found at http://pods.dasnr.okstate.edu/docushare/ by searching for the title of the article.

###

Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Higher Education Act), the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, genetic information, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, or status as a veteran, in any of its policies, practices or procedures.  This provision includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The Director of Equal Opportunity, 408 Whitehurst, OSU, Stillwater, OK 74078-1035; phone 405-744-5371; email: [email protected] has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity. Any person (student, faculty, or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based on gender may discuss his or her concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with OSU’s Title IX Coordinator 405-744-9154.

Leighona Bernstein
Communications Specialist
Oklahoma State University
Department of Horticulture & Landscape Architecture
340 Agricultural Hall
Stillwater, OK 74078
303-587-3663    
[email protected]