This year brought the second-worst drought in 20 years to Colorado.
It has been an exceptionally dry year for Colorado—in fact, 2020 turned out to be a drought of historic proportions. This year brought the worst drought in Colorado since 2002, and the second-worst drought in the last 20 years.
Right now, there are 5,030,000 Colorado residents in drought, according to the U.S Drought Portal. During the summer, Colorado experienced high winds, low moisture, and very high temperatures, all of which fueled three of the worst wildfires in the state’s history. Several smaller fires also broke out, and water resources in the state were thin. Hundreds of firefighters worked long days and nights, several homes burned, and lives were lost.
Drought in Colorado is nothing new. But it's important to be aware of the conditions, follow watering restrictions, and make sure to pay attention and abide by all fire safety regulations. The Colorado State University Extension office offers a lot of resources for Coloradans to help deal with and adapt to living in a drought.
Trying to conserve water in our daily lives is one way we as individuals can help in a drought. Below is a list of simple ways we can all make a difference:
- Turning off taps all the way so they do not drip.
- Repairing leaky faucets and taps.
- Installing low flow attachments on taps and showerheads.
- Installing low flush toilets ( this can save up to 50% of water usage!)
- Turn off the faucet when washing hands and brushing teeth.
- Water lawns in the cool part of the day and do not overwater.
- Use the shortest cycle on your washing machine.
Did you know this was one of the worst droughts in recent history for the state of Colorado? How did the drought affect you? Know of any other ways to help save water in our daily lives? Share with us in the comments!
