The conservation move could save water, money and protect public health, experts say.

Drip irrigation and desert landscaping use about 40 percent less water than grassy areas. Small pan-like devices in gutters will measure how much runoff decreases.

Dry pavement lasts up to 50 percent longer. Water washes out oil in asphalt, exposing the stone below. Traffic wears down the sun-baked surface, and streets get noisy.

Eliminating standing water reduces breeding areas for mosquitoes, which can carry the West Nile virus.