local governments advise of likely voluntary water conservation

The City of Richmond, along with the surrounding counties of Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover and Henrico are alerting customers that voluntary water conservation measures may be encouraged within the next few days. Over the last four to five weeks, sporadic rain patterns have caused levels in the James River to spike upward before beginning a […]

The City of Richmond, along with the surrounding counties of Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover and Henrico are alerting customers that voluntary water conservation measures may be encouraged within the next few days. Over the last four to five weeks, sporadic rain patterns have caused levels in the James River to spike upward before beginning a consistent downward spiral. Another impending factor is the increased trigger levels that go into effect for state waterways beginning Nov. 1.

“Our goal is to heighten public awareness of the need to voluntarily conserve, underscore local governments support of regional efforts to save water and increase citizen participation in water-saving activities,” said Richmond Mayor L. Douglas Wilder. Echoing this sentiment, surrounding county public utilities directors are on board and encouraging their customers to adopt water-saving practices in their communities.

When water conservation measures are implemented, voluntary compliance will decrease demand on our water supply while also meeting the James River Regional Flow Management Plan. If significant rainfall eliminates the current low water level conditions, voluntary water conservation measures may be avoided.

Citizens are reminded to take the following steps to make the most efficient use of watering year-round, especially during voluntary restrictions:

  • Do not water your street, driveway, or sidewalk. Position your sprinklers so that water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not the paved areas.
  • Do not leave sprinklers or hoses unattended. Your garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours. Use a kitchen timer to remind yourself to turn off the water.
  • Water during off-peak demand hours, between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
  • Check sprinklers and outside water connections for leaks.
  • Do not leave the water running while performing tasks such as brushing your teeth or washing your face.
  • Take shorter showers. Decreasing your shower time by two minutes can save several gallons of water.

Additional information can be found at www.vdh.state.va.us/DrinkingWater/conservationtips.htm.

For additional information, specific to localities, contact:
County of Chesterfield
Media Inquiries, Courtney Battista 748-1876
Customer Inquiries 748-1291

County of Goochland
Public Utilities 556-5835

County of Hanover
www.co.hanover.va.us or call Customer Service 365-6024

County of Henrico
Customer Service 501-4275

City of Richmond
Customer Care Center 644-3000

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