Many western states, including California, Nevada and Arizona, are in a drought. Due to the drought, and the water restrictions in place because of it, many homeowners are looking to conserve water when it comes to their yards. And it makes sense, since up to 30 percent of a household's water use is from outdoor usage. While many people are getting rid of their grass and replacing it with rocks, pavers or cement to conserve water, you may love yours. If you don't want to give up your lush green yard, you may be looking for alternative ways to cut back on your outdoor water usage. Here are ways to save water in your yard without sacrificing your lawn.

Use Drought-Tolerant Plants

If you are looking to conserve water, replacing your existing water-sucking plants and bushes with drought-tolerant ones can help you achieve this goal. There are many different drought-tolerant or drought-resistant plants on the market. Some of these plants can go for extended periods of time without water, while others need only minimal amounts of water. Always read up on the plant you are considering to find out its specific water needs. However, drought-tolerant and drought-resistant plants come in a wide array of colors, sizes and types, so there is something to appeal to every homeowner out there.

Install an Irrigation System

One of the best ways to conserve water when it comes to your yard is to install an irrigation system. An irrigation system can include sprinklers or drip systems, depending on your needs. This type of system helps you to save water because it ensures the areas that need water get the water they need and the areas that don't need water, don't get water. When you use an old-fashioned sprinkler connected to a hose, you can wind up watering the sidewalk or driveway because you can't control where the water goes. Or you can forget about it and over-water an area. An irrigation system is on a timer, helping to ensure that each part of your yard only gets the water it needs, without letting any go to waste. However, it is important to point out that irrigation systems can be complex to install yourself. A professional irrigation system installation service can install it for you and measure the amount of water flowing to different parts of your yard, ensuring that no water goes to waste.

Place Mulch Around Your Trees and Flower Beds

The last way you can conserve water when in your yard is to place mulch around your trees and flower beds. There are many different types of mulches you can use. You can use old leaves or grass clippings, or purchase wood chips or bark. Regardless, placing mulch over bare soil and dirt helps to conserve water. Mulch helps to prevent water from evaporating. This helps to keep the soil moist, which in turn helps your plants get the water they need. You will have to water less, less water goes to waste, and overtime, the mulch will breakdown into the soil, providing it with nutrients. Mulching is a win-win all the way around.

The drought has caused many homeowners to pull out their lush green yards and replace them with drought-friendly landscaping. However, if you have pets, kids or just love the look of a green lawn, you may not want to pull your yard out. Fortunately, you can keep your yard and still conserve water. Replacing your plants with drought-tolerant ones, installing an irrigation system and placing mulch around your trees and flower beds can help you do your part to conserve water.