HONOLULU — The state Commission on Water Resource Management is asking Hawaii residents and businesses to help conserve water.

The islands are contending with abnormally dry conditions brought on by an El Nino weather pattern. Some areas of the state have reported the worst drought conditions in the nation.

The commission's deputy director, Ken Kawahara, said Monday that by conserving water, mandatory water restrictions may be avoided.

State officials say agricultural producers are feeling the impact of drastically reduced rainfall and some residents who normally rely on rainwater catchment are hauling water.

The officials say one way to conserve water is by irrigating lawns only between the hours of 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. to minimize evaporation.