BWS produces or sponsors a number of publications and other materials designed to help the public better understand our island's fresh water system and how they can help to conserve and protect it for future generations.

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Water Conservation Publications

Related Water Conservation Links


Landscape Irrigation Conservation: Best Management Practices

Landscape Irrigation Conservation: Best Management Practices is a publication developed by the Landscape Industry Council of Hawaii (LICH) in partnership with the State of Hawaii Commission on Water Resources Management, the City & County of Honolulu, and the Honolulu Board of Water Supply (BWS).

This publication provides useful information and best management practices on installing and maintaining a landscape irrigation system. Landscape irrigation uses about 50 percent of total household water consumption, so installing an efficient landscape irrigation system can help to preserve precious water resources and save customers money on their water bill.

Top 10 Water Conservation Best Management Practices for Installing and Maintaining a Landscape Irrigation System

  1. landscape irrigation conservation coverSet an irrigation schedule to avoid watering lawns between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Instead, water in the early morning, evening, or at night to reduce water waste.
  2. Adjust your irrigation schedule throughout the year according to current soil conditions and seasonal weather conditions.
  3. Use water-saving irrigation components such as rotary nozzles, pressure regulated spray heads/valves, rain switches, or high efficiency nozzles.
  4. Conduct monthly sprinkler inspections to ensure the system is operating efficiently.
  5. Use climate-based irrigation controllers (Smart Controllers) to schedule watering based on weather conditions.
  6. Mulch garden beds to increase water filtration, reduce water pooling, and to minimize water loss due to evaporation.
  7. Utilize drip irrigation for watering shrubs, trees, and plant beds to minimize water waste.
  8. Equip sprinklers with check valves to prevent water from ponding at the lowest sprinkler head.
  9. Xeriscape! Organize your landscape and select plants that will minimize the use of supplemental water from irrigation. Learn more about xeriscaping.
  10. Use a licensed maintenance contractor with water conservation expertise.

For More Information

Hard copies are available, in limited supply, by calling the BWS Communications Office at (808) 748-5041.

state of hawaii commission on water resources management logo  landscape industry council of hawaii logo  board of water supply logo


Updated: 03/22/2024