Denver Water is implementing water conservation efforts throughout Colorado, helping customers use 22 percent less water than in 2002 before the infamous drought. Due to the conservation efforts, Denver Water customers are now using an average of 20 percent less water.
The Summit Daily reported the drought of 2002 that hit Colorado caused a significant shift in the state's consumer behavior. Since the disaster, residents have been working with water companies to reduce their consumption, as well as encourage responsible resource use and preserve water levels. Several water companies and organizations launched marketing campaigns to create awareness of the effort, as well as implemented programs to help specific consumer groups scale back their usage with new technology or irrigation techniques.
Residents in Athens, Georgia, are also following water conservation measures in light of recent drought-like conditions. The Athens Banner-Herald reported outdoor watering hours are being limited based on country restrictions, with certain addresses permitted to water half of the week to maintain sustainable water levels to service the communities. Outdoor watering is off-limits to all residents between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is out and much water will likely evaporate before making its way into plant root systems.
