The southeastern United States is especially vulnerable to water-related disasters and needs to start taking conservation seriously, concludes a report prepared by a nonprofit water conservation agency.  

"The Hidden Reservoir: Why Water Efficiency is the Best Solution for the Southeast," published by American Rivers, argues that without strict conservation the region risks increased problems from both flooding and drought, water shortages and increased costs of water consumption.

American Rivers is an industry leader in water conservation and protection, dedicated to restoring rivers across America. It diverts the majority of its water supply from rivers and just a small amount from lakes, or ocean desalination facilities. 

"Hidden Reservoir" estimates that the Southeast, a region particularly prone to drought conditions, would save over $700 million by conserving water at home, at work and throughout industry. Conservation is less expensive than trying to bolster water systems by building dams to divert water flow, the report says.

The report also projects the benefits of conservation for selected cities across the Southeast. For example, Atlanta could produce an additional 130 to 210 million gallons per day by conserving water, which represents 21 to 33 percent of the city’s total consumption. Charlotte, North Carolina could save 47 MGD a day by region-specific conservation measures, enough to provide water for 135,000 to 205,240 Charlotteans.

"Hidden Reservoir" suggests adopting the following conservation measures: 1) Stopping and fixing pipe leaks in homes; 2) Metering all water users so that they know how much they're consuming; 3) Using native plants for landscaping and considering xeroscaping to minimize water needs; 4) Build green. Green buildings conserve water in a number of ways, like recycling used shower water in toilets; and, most importantly, 5) Educating consumers in the ways of conservation. 

Rebecca Wodder, president of American Rivers, said: “The Southeast is sitting on an enormous and forgotten water supply, and it’s hiding in plain sight. There is a 'hidden reservoir' in our laundry rooms, kitchens and bathrooms…. By improving how we use and manage water, we can tap a brand new source of supply.”