Ecology has received and is reviewing two applications for emergency water permits from farmers who are seeking access to new sources of water. Also, the department is working with other state and federal agencies to develop additional mechanisms that will help farmers in the Yakima basin, an area expected to experience extremely low water levels this year. Limit the amount of water to approximately one inch per week. In Western Washington, people can even let their lawns go without water the entire summer and the grass will recover during the winter months. People with older homes should convert their toilets, faucets and showerheads to more water-efficient fixtures.
Some local utilities offer free fixtures or rebates.