|Written by Linda Langelo, Golden Plains Area Extension| New
Year’s Resolution: Change your lawn care practices With the
extreme drought in 2012, which is continuing into 2013, we need
to change our previous practices. In 2013, it is predicted that
we will stay in a persistent drought. Do any of us know how long
we can depend on the underground water source: the Ogallala
Aquifer? Some predictions state the Ogallala Aquifer will last
until 2050 while others say 2035. For every nine gallons we use
from the Ogallala Aquifer, we only replace one. What has been
replaced in 2012? Do we understand that there is little to no
subsoil moisture? In parts of Nebraska and Colorado, tests have
discovered that we need to go to a depth of 3-8 feet to subsoil
moisture. What does this mean for our lawn practices? Let me
cite one example from the City of Aurora Water Department. Their
water restrictions limit watering the garden and grass to three
days a week year-round. They are also reminding people that you
should not water