By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
Outdoor watering restrictions for the city of Hays end Thursday.
The restriction prohibiting outdoor water use between noon and 7 p.m. - including private wells - began June 1 and continues through Sept. 30.
Of course, the weather can still get hot in October, says Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist.
"If it's warm and windy, you should water your landscape plants, including turfgrass if necessary, early in the morning or at night to make most efficient use of the water," she said.
Other water restrictions are prohibited year round:
* Washing down of hardscapes such as sidewalks, parking lots and driveways
* Known loss of water through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems
* Escape of water from private property onto pubic property such as sidewalks or into the street guttering from landscape irrigation
Dickman added that fall is an "excellent time to plant deciduous trees and shrubs, as well as many drought tolerant perennials.
"The cooler air temperatures make the environment less stressful, while the warm soil temperatures encourage good root growth."