Summer's heating up, and so is our next challenge! This month, we're focusing on simple, smart ways to save water at home. From learning where our water comes from to small changes that make a big impact, there are so many ways to get involved. We're kicking things off with a a free Saving Water at Home presentation and launching our second Go Green! challenge: the Saving Water Contest. Whether you're just getting started or already a water-saving pro, this month is packed with practical tips and local inspiration to help you make every drop count.

Water might seem endless - just turn on the tap, and there it is. But in the Fraser Valley, our water supply depends on rainfall and snowmelt, which can become strained during the hot, dry summer months. With more people at home in the warmer seasons, water use often spikes.

In Abbotsford, residents use an average of 185 litres of water per person per day. In Mission, that number jumps to 335 litres per person. In Chilliwack, total water demand nearly doubles in the summer, from 28 million litres per day to 52 million. This is primarily due to outdoor uses like lawn watering and car washing. These numbers show just how much potential we have to make a meaningful change at home.

Want to go deeper? Join us for a free Saving Water at Home presentation on June 24, led by a senior water engineer from Abbotsford/Mission Water & Sewer Services. You'll learn where our water comes from, how it's used in our homes and yards, and what happens after it goes down the drain. Discover how water systems work behind the scenes, how supply is balanced with demand, and what you can do to reduce your impact - indoors and out. Whether you've got a lawn, a balcony garden, or just a tap, you'll come away with practical tips for making every drop count.

BONUS: The first 50 people to register and attend will receive a free water-saving kit to help you get started. Priority will be given to residents of Abbotsford and Mission, so don't wait - register now to save your spot!

These stories show that we can all do something to help. Simple actions - like watering your garden early in the morning, using less water when washing dishes, or planting native plants - can make a big difference. Starting July 11, join our Saving Water Conest and show us how you're helping.

Starting July 11, 11, join our Saving Water Contest and show us how you're helping. Whether you live in a house, an apartment, or have a garden or not, everyone can take part. Share your ideas, learn from others, and help protect water for the future.

Did You Know?

Keep your eyes on the sky — Tree Swallows are busy swooping and gliding through the air right now. The males of these sleek little songbirds are easy to spot with their shimmering blue-green backs and crisp white bellies. They are aerial acrobats, catching insects mid-flight with incredible speed and skill. You’ll often see them near open fields, wetlands, or anywhere close to water.

Our once-a-month newsletter is dedicated to volunteer and educational activities you can join.