As the dog days of summer approach and residents prepare to dust off their lawn sprinklers, a new resource is available for city water utilities that want to develop water conservation programs. “Water Conservation Programs — A Planning Manual” from the Denver-based American Water Works Association is a step-by-step guide on how to set and achieve realistic water efficiency goals, who to involve in developing the program, how to gain support and how to respond to common objections. Chapters cover budgeting, staff scheduling, training, tracking water savings and evaluating program effectiveness. Examples of successful programs also are highlighted. The 145-page soft-cover book is available for $63 for AWWA members and $93 for non-members. To order a copy, visit www.awwa.org/bookstore.