Water is the one substance on earth that naturally exists as a gas, a liguid and a solid. The earth contains more than 330 million cubic miles of water. Of that, 96.5 percent is salt water in our global oceans.

Climate change, driven by fossil fuel consumption, is increasing the frequency and severity of droughts, flooding and other extreme weather events, which make fresh water less available. Growing population demands for fresh water are also beginning to strain water treatment, distribution, and disposal systems.

Even in areas with abundant water resources it makes sense to conserve water, because the less water flowing into local septic, sewage, and storm-drain systems, the better our waste facilities can process their loads and reduce polluted funoff into our bays and oceans. Conserving water also saves money and energy.

Here are some ways you can help to conserve water:

1) If your toilet was installed before 1992, add a toilet dam to reduce the amount of water flowing out of it by 35% and still leave it functioning properly.

2) If possible, replace your old toilet with a modern low-flush one.

3) Install a low-flow showerhead to reduce your shower water use by 20 to 60 percent.

4) Put aerators on all your faucets. They reduce the amount of water but add air bubbles so the flow remains lively. Using this idea, you can reduce your home water flow by two gallons per minute.

5) Check your pipes and water equipment for leaks, which can waste thousands of gallons of water a year.

6) Make sure you purchase water-saving appliances, such as a front-loading washing machine and low-water-use dishwasher. Also, be sure to wash ONLY full loads.

7) Turn off the tap water when brushing your teeth. Fill the basin for washing and shaving.

8) Landscape your property using native plants appropriate to your climate, so that they won't require excessive watering and will retain moisture.

9) Use a rain barrel to collect water from your roof's down-spout to irrigate your garden.

10) Sweep, rather than spraying down your driveway and sidewalk.

If you have other ideas, please post them as a comment to this action so others can do their part!