How can you save water with a garden water feature?

In Britain this June, many southern parts of the country have been experiencing drought like conditions following a winter in which there was less than the average rainfall and a very dry spring time. Although this comes as a surprise every time, it is happening more regularly. Certainly last year was similar and covered by the national press at the time. It seems this is the type of climate we in Britain are going to have to get used to as global climate change kicks in. As in other parts of the world these types of changes are something that we may well have to get used to.

As usual people look to find ways to take less water from the supply chain and if you've got a garden water feature then you might be especially concerned about what neighbours are thinking as its running during the drought.

You may think there's little you can do to make a difference and that to save water you might as well turn it off so as not to draw attention to yourself.” Despicable Me” style! In fact in your home there is plenty you can do to save water that will more than make up for keeping a water feature and enjoying it during especially dry periods-so no need to feel guilty! In Britain, not only people with thirsty gardens, but everyone on average consumes way more water per person than in many other industrialised nations.

So the chances are that here in Britain everybody could do a lot more in everyday life to cut down on how much we use. Having a garden water feature could mean that your awareness of using water for enjoyment means that you take the initiatives which other people might not consider until much later. Probably though if it's how much water you use in your garden that’s on your mind during a dry period, then it's the manicured bright green lawn if you've got one that litre for litre of water is by far and away the most extravagant demand on water supplies that you make. Especially that is if you consider its environmental value compared to that of a mature pond or combination of pond stream and waterfall. At least with a water feature the water is circulating and not constantly re supplied, and assuming you’ve dealt with any leaks you will only have evaporation as a significant cause of water loss.

A garden water feature doesn't mean you are going to waste water.

So if you want a water friendly garden water feature that's going to work in tune with an environment where there is less rain what can you do to make it happen?

• Keep it well maintained by checking for leaks and cracks that need repairing. • If what you want is a waterfall, then an artificial product will create less water waste by splashing than a rock waterfall because it is designed to direct the flow of the water. Also a less forceful flow will create less waste through splashing. • If you are going to put a small pond feature in, use a preformed liner to reduce the risk of the liner being pierced or cracking. • To reduce the amount of water that you might lose through evaporation, place your water feature out of the sun or prevailing winds. • Remember that less than 450mm depth for the water is considered shallow and this depth of water will heat up quicker and so evaporate more easily. • Try to make sure that there are not too many shallow sloping sides as this too will cause more water evaporation in the heat. • If you are thinking of a fountain feature, don’t necessarily choose one with a jet particularly if it is primarily one that sprays in to the air,, take a look at bubbler fountains or spout fountains. • If a stream is part of your plans try to set the course of the stream in a shady part of your garden. • Include plants or a hedge around the sides that are exposed to the prevailing winds to reduce evaporation. • Use water that you collect from any rain to top your water feature up when necessary.

If you combine these practical ideas with everyday ways to change the amount of water you consume, then using a garden water feature should be a pleasure without guilt or concerns about letting the neighbours down.