For the first time in seventeen years, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared a drought in California. During a conference in June, Governor Schwarzenegger declared that we must recognize the severity of the water shortage and cut our water use by at least one fifth. Although California has already seen a lack of water for several years, this year has been one of the driest winters on record.

The idea is to start now to prepare for the near future, and help minimize a potential third year of drought in 2009. If we don't start limiting our own water use, we might be facing water rationing next year. Many of you remember the water rationing we experienced in different areas of California in the seventies and eighties, and would probably prefer to prevent it, so let's bring life back to the Golden State and start conserving water now.

No one likes driving around in a dirty car but it is extremely wasteful to have all of that water running into the sewer system. I'm not suggesting driving around In a car that's so dirty you can't see out the front window, just shell out a few bucks and go to a full or self-service car wash. Since these facilities use recycled water, we will be able to conserve more water as a community effort.

Quit flushing things down the toilet that can be thrown away in the garbage. I know the spider is gross and you want to give goldie the gold fish a proper farewell, but it is a waste of water.

One site recommends you brush your teeth while waiting for the water to get hot, then wash your face or shave when the basin is full. This sounds odd to me because I don't think I want to wash my face with water I've just spit in, but hey if you're an extremist give it a try. Your face will smell minty fresh.

Kitchen sink disposals require a lot of water to run, so instead of shoving all that food down the drain, just scrape it into the garbage. Consider composting as an alternative.

Don't use running water to defrost food, leave it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave to defrost it.

Try not to purchase recreational water toys which require a constant stream of water.

If none of these water saving tips appeal to you, there are several great sites on the internet to give you ideas on how to help put an end to the drought. Be smart this summer and use common sense to save water.