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Drought Update
July 18, 2008 by richard · Leave a Comment
The Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group (CW-DMAG) on Thursday recommended its members continue with the present restrictions that limit outdoor water uses to one day per week. The Catawba-Wateree Basin remains in a Stage 3 drought.
The CW-DMAG includes nearly two dozen community water systems, including Union County Public Works, and other significant water users between Lenoir, N.C. and Camden, S.C. that withdraw water from the Catawba-Wateree Basin.
“This week’s rain helped, but 2008 rainfall is still below normal and most indicators of the drought’s severity are still at Stage 3,” said Ed Bruce, CW-DMAG coordinator. “We’ve been able to keep the lakes up because of a combination of customer water conservation and the elimination of hydro generation except to provide enough water for downstream users.”
“Union County was fortunate to receive three days of heavy rain this week, however, we need a lot more to get out of this drought situation,” said Union County Manager Al Greene. “Until we get a lot more rain, our water users must continue to abide by the county’s water restrictions.”
Union County is currently under Stage 3 water restrictions which allow customers living at odd numbered addresses to wash vehicles and water lawns only on Saturday and customers residing at even numbered and unnumbered addresses to wash vehicles and water lawns only on Sunday. Residential pressure washing is allowed and drip irrigation and hand-held use of watering containers and hoses is permitted to maintain flowers, shrubs, trees and vegetable gardens. The following remains prohibited:
• Washing public buildings, sidewalks and streets, except as required for safety and/or to maintain regulatory compliance.
• Using water for dust control during construction.
• Conducting flushing or hydrant testing programs, except to maintain water quality or other special circumstances approved by the director in advance.
• Filling new swimming pools.
• Serving drinking water at restaurants, cafeterias, or other food establishments, except upon request.
The CW-DMAG will review the drought conditions and its recommendations again in late July.
Additional information concerning Union County’s Stage 3 water restrictions and conservation tips are available at www.co.union.nc.us.
Customers with questions about the Stage 3 restrictions should call 704-296-4210.
