Voluntary water conservation kicks in

From the Department of Public Utilities: The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities, along with the Counties of Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover and Henrico, implemented voluntary water conservation measures effective today. Seasonal water levels of the James River, which serves as the water source for the Richmond metropolitan area, are lower than average due to the […]

November 3, 2008; 8:28 PM • by North Richmond News

From the Department of Public Utilities:

The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities, along with the Counties of Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover and Henrico, implemented voluntary water conservation measures effective today. Seasonal water levels of the James River, which serves as the water source for the Richmond metropolitan area, are lower than average due to the dryness experienced earlier in the year. If area localities do not receive significant rainfall, mandatory water conservation measures are likely to take effect within the next two weeks.

Another contributing factor is the higher water levels required of state waterways as of Nov. 1. “River level numbers that trigger the implementation of both voluntary and mandatory conservation measures increased by 500 cfs (cubic feet per second) on Nov. 1, 2008. This is the normal start of the fall fish migratory season and river levels need to be higher during these periods to promote fish migration from upper portions of the James River back to the Chesapeake Bay,” said Acting Chief Administrative Officer and DPU Director Chris Beschler…

…Exclusive to City of Richmond customers is the City’s water conservation rate that went into effect July 1, 2008. Depending on individual usage amounts during voluntary and mandatory conservation measures, City of Richmond DPU customers may also see a conservation rate surcharge on their utility bills. During designated conservation periods customers who make the decision to use more than 140 percent of their normal winter water usage will pay a higher commodity rate on their excess usage. This is to encourage conservation-friendly behavior.

The following mandatory water conservation requirements apply to City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities customers:

Established Lawns, Landscapes & Gardens

Monday – no watering

Odd property addresses water Tue, Thur and Sat

Even property addresses water Wed, Fri and Sun (Odd/Even designation is determined by last digit of address number)

Bucket watering (five gallon max. permitted anytime)

New Lawns and Landscapes

Unrestricted for first 10 days after planting, then limited to the “Established Lawns, Landscape and Gardens” measures

Vegetable Gardens

Limited to any two days per week and between 8 p.m. and 10 a.m. on any day. Bucket watering is unrestricted

Vehicle Washing (Commercial Businesses Exempt)

Limited to two days per week using a hand-held hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle

November 3, 2008 8:28 PM 0