Water is one of the Rio Grande Valley's most precious resources. BPUB is committed to helping our customers use water wisely through conservation programs, rebates, and educational resources. Together, we can protect our water supply for future generations.
of home water use is indoors
gallons/day from a running toilet
of outdoor water is wasted
annual savings with conservation
Current Watering Restrictions
Combined U.S. Ownership
26.2%
884,416 ac-ft of 3,375,796 ac-ft
Amistad
550,329 ac-ft
Falcon
334,087 ac-ft
IBWC Weekly Report (05/02/2026)
Check Your Watering Schedule
Know your designated watering days based on your address to stay compliant with current restrictions.
Conservation Resources
Detecting Leaks
Learn how to find and fix water leaks in your home. A single leak can waste thousands of gallons and cost you hundreds of dollars per year.
Conservation Kits
BPUB offers free water conservation kits to help residential customers save water and money. Kits include efficient showerheads, faucet aerators, and leak detection supplies.
Drought-Tolerant Plants
A guide to native and adapted plants that thrive in the Rio Grande Valley with minimal water. Create a beautiful, water-wise landscape.
Conservation Tips
Practical, easy-to-follow tips for households to reduce water use, lower utility bills, and protect our community's water supply.
Save Water Indoors
The average household can save thousands of gallons per year with simple changes. Here are the biggest opportunities:
Fix Leaks First
A running toilet can waste 200+ gallons daily. Check toilets, faucets, and irrigation systems regularly.
Learn moreUpgrade Fixtures
WaterSense toilets, low-flow showerheads, and faucet aerators can reduce indoor use by 20%.
Learn moreSmart Habits
Turn off taps while brushing, run full loads only, and take shorter showers.
Learn moreSave Water Outdoors
Outdoor watering accounts for up to 50% of residential water use—and much of it is wasted through evaporation, runoff, and overwatering.
Water at the Right Time
Water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. Follow your designated watering schedule.
Learn moreChoose Smart Plants
Native and drought-tolerant plants thrive with less water and maintenance.
Learn moreEfficient Irrigation
Use drip irrigation, soaker hoses, and smart controllers to deliver water where it's needed.
Learn morePrograms & Rebates
BPUB offers programs to help you save water and money:
Conservation Tips by Area
Bathroom (65% of indoor use)
- Toilets: Check for leaks monthly using the dye test. Replace old toilets with WaterSense models (1.28 gpf or less).
- Showers: Install low-flow showerheads (2.0 gpm or less). Keep showers under 5 minutes.
- Faucets: Turn off water while brushing teeth or shaving. Install aerators (1.0 gpm or less).
- Baths: Fill tub only halfway. Consider showers instead—they use less water.
Kitchen & Laundry
- Dishwasher: Run only full loads. Skip pre-rinsing—modern dishwashers don't need it.
- Washing Machine: Use appropriate water level settings. Choose high-efficiency models.
- Sink: Don't let water run while washing dishes by hand. Use a basin instead.
- Cooking: Thaw food in the refrigerator, not under running water.
Outdoor & Landscape
- Watering Schedule: Follow your designated days and water only during allowed hours (see drought stages).
- Irrigation: Use drip irrigation for beds. Check sprinklers for leaks and overspray.
- Lawn Care: Raise mower height to 3-4 inches—taller grass retains moisture better.
- Mulching: Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around plants to reduce evaporation.
- Plant Selection: Choose native and drought-tolerant plants (see plant guide).
Pool & Spa
- Covers: Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation by up to 90%.
- Maintenance: Keep water level at the lowest safe level. Fix leaks promptly.
- Backwash: Backwash filters only when necessary.
Need Help?
Our conservation specialists can help you identify ways to save water and money.