Quality is perhaps the most important part of any water distribution system. Water utilities process every drop that makes it into our plumbing, which takes a lot of time and energy. One way to keep from overburdening the system is by reducing our consumption — what we know as "water conservation." Bill Graffin works for the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District , which works in wastewater treatment and conservation efforts in the Milwaukee area. Here are some helpful tips from Graffin on how you can conserve water at home. » See More Project Milwaukee: Great Lakes, Troubled Waters Stories 1. Collect and reuse rainwater Rainwater is not only healthier for your plants, it's healthier for our sewage system. Capturing rain in a bin or cistern helps divert large amounts of water from entering our sewers and gives more nutrients to plants. Just make sure you don't drink it. "You never know what's in that water without putting it under a magnifying glass," Graffin cautions. 2. Create a