Despite the recent rainfall, our area remains in a level 4 drought; and as responsible citizens, we must remain alert to ways to conserve our precious water.  Local governments are providing incentives for residents to retrofit water-wasting toilets.  Gwinnett water customers can get rebates of either $50 or $100 for replacing the toilet/toilets in their single-family residential home, depending on whether the replacement toilet is 1.6 gallons per flush or 1.28 gallons per flush.   Funds for this program are limited, but the County's intention is to set aside funds for the rebate program each year. Rebates will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. Customers who do not receive rebates this year are encouraged to reapply next year provided funds are available. Only single family residential homes built before 1993 are eligible for the rebate for a maximum of two toilets per household. Also, only toilets purchased after September 28, 2007, are eligible for the rebate. The rebate is a lump sum amount and excludes the Georgia sales tax, additional installation parts, or labor costs.  Details of the program and applications can be found at www.northgeorgiawater.com. Customers may also request an application by calling 404.463.8645 or e-mailing toiletrebate@northgeorgiawater.org.   If you are not a Gwinnett County water customer, check with your provider to see if it offers a similar program.

Hall County Master Gardeners’ Spring Garden Expo 2008:  The Greatest Two-Day Plant Sale in Georgia, Friday, April 11, 2008, and Saturday, April 12, 2008, at Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, I-985 north to Exit 20, follow the signs.

Elachee's Spring Pre-Order Plant Sale. March 24th - April 11th.
Looking for a way to spruce up your yard with a minimum of worry about watering? Choose some drought resistant varieties from their list of wildflowers, perennials, native azaleas and woody shrubs. The list includes many varieties that will attract wildlife to your yard like birds, hummingbirds, and butterflies. All plant orders are due by Friday, April 11th and pickup will be on Friday, April 25th from 10am-2pm and on Saturday, April 26th from noon-2pm.   www.elachee.org or 770-535-1976.

Linda Ayers