Well, this cold snap is something else. I know if you watch or listen to the news, you have been reminded to cover or insulate your outside water lines. However, I'm reminding you again, did you do it?

As for conservation, water is still at drought levels. We can not let this become an out of site out of mind issue. We consume less water for our yards in winter, some water is replenished by rain, but our water account is so far overdrawn that it will take many storms to catch up.

We need to continue to be diligent and frugal with our water use. This should simply be our habit and ultimately our way of life.

Leaks are an easy way to lose lots of water and they are often easy to fix. One way to check for leaks is to follow these simple steps:

1. Turn off all water inside and outside, (not at the meter).
2. Read your meter.
3. Note your current reading
4. Wait 15 to 20 minutes and see if the meter has moved.
5. If the meter shows usage you probably have a leak.

Remember, these simple efforts add up and benefit your budget over time and the environment right now.