TIPS AND TRICKS Here are a few additional tips that can help you reduce energy use related to gardening: * Drip systems lose less water to evaporation. * Timers are a convenient way to control irrigation, but be sure to override the timer and shut off watering cycles when a rain shower can do the job. * Consider purchasing a rain barrel for energy-efficient watering. * Learn how to store your produce to reduce waste. * Make sure your freezer is energy efficient. We hope these tips will help you prepare for a more energy-efficient garden this season. Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency write on energyefficiency topics for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. For additional energy tips and information, visit collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips. co-opliving.com March-April 2021 | Cooperative Living | 27http://www.collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips http://www.co-opliving.com