Replace water loving lawn grasses with more drought tolerant grasses and groundcovers. The native buffalo grass requires less mowing, water and fertilizer than traditional lawn grasses. Newer varieties of the drought tolerant and pest resistant rhizomatous tall fescue (RTF) create a carpet of green with less fertilizer and water. Or consider native grasses and groundcovers where appropriate. Once established, plants like sedum, hens-and-chicks and thyme requireless water than a traditional lawn. Make sure the plants and grass you select are suited to your climate.