By Sarah Jane Rosser, Staff Writer
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Sat, May 17 2008
—
The city of Albemarle has followed suit and has declared a level one water emergency effective Friday.
After a request from Gov. Mike Easley for conservation measures statewide, Albemarle citizens are urged to be stringent when using water by any feasible means.
Easley met with the N.C. League of Municipalities Monday during its annual conference in Fayetteville to address drought issues in the state.
“Several communities have as little as three month’s water supply remaining,” he said.
“If we do not get significant rain, some areas face the once unthinkable possibility of water rationing and potentially running out of water entirely.
“A little bit of mud on the car or patches of brown on the lawn must be a badge of honor. It means you are doing the right thing for your community and our state.”
According to Easley, the drought across much of the state is the worst in recorded history. Since the winter forecast is calling for drier than normal conditions, Easley said every citizen must save water in every way possible to avoid a water crisis that could lead to rationing.
Users of the city’s water system are encouraged to reduce their consumption of water by adhering to the following guidelines:
• Watering of lawns, ornamental plants and gardens should be limited to 7 p.m.-6 a.m.;
• The use of water to wash down outside areas such as driveways, parking lots and sidewalks should be curtailed;
• Faucets should not be left running while conducting personal hygiene or washing dishes;
• The use of washing machines and dishwashers should be limited where possible.
To do so, units should be operated with full loads;
• Washing cars and other vehicles should be curtailed to Saturday and Sunday;
• The use of flow restrictions and other water saving devices is encouraged. Showers should be used instead of tub baths and showers should be limited to four minutes or less.
Filling of pools should be deferred or limited to the hours between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Sarah Jane Rosser can be contacted at snaponline26@yahoo.com.
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