Check Your Irrigation Timer When You 'Spring Forward' for Daylight Saving Time

Saturday night is when we will turn our clocks ahead one hour. The time change is also a good time to make sure irrigation system timers are set correctly to ensure that the systems operate consistently with year-round water conservation measures. The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) is reminding residents to check the timers on their irrigation system controllers this weekend, which is the beginning of daylight saving time.

All 16 counties throughout the District's boundaries, including Polk, are currently on year-round water conservation measures, with lawn watering limited to twice-per-week unless your city or county has a different schedule or stricter hours. Local governments maintaining once-per-week watering by local ordinance include Citrus, Hernando, southern Hillsborough, Pasco and Sarasota counties.

Know and follow your local watering restrictions, but don't water just because it's your day. Remember, over-watering can lead to shallow-roots, and leave your lawn vulnerable to fungus and other diseases.

Irrigate your lawn when it shows signs of stress from lack of water. Pay attention to signs of stressed grass.

If grass blades are folded in half lengthwise on at least one-third of your yard, appear blue-gray, or do not spring back, leaving footprints on the lawn for several minutes after walking on it, it's time to water..

For additional information about water conservation, please visit the District's website at WaterMatters.org/Conservation.