Please Reduce Your Water Use: Aquarion

The weather has been lovely recently but sometimes, there can be too much of a good thing.

The lack of significant rainfall is causing Connecticut to experience “abnormally dry” to “moderate drought” conditions, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

And the seven-day forecast again calls for continued dry conditions. There is a slight chance of rain late Sunday into Monday, but it’s less than 50-percent.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health issued an advisory for voluntary water conservation and the Aquarion Water Company is following suit, asking customers to stop all non-essential outdoor water use and conserve water indoors.

The current statewide reservoir capacity is at 93.8% of normal, according to the DPH.

“Water resources are generally ample in Connecticut,” the DPH noted. “Prolonged droughts are infrequent; however, considerable weather changes can occur over short periods of time. During periods of low precipitation you should follow recommendations from your public water supplier for appropriate levels of water use. Always use water wisely to help: Save Water, Save Money, and Save Energy.”

Aquarion’s Water Supply Below Normal Capacity

“With below average rainfall and water demand 9.3-percent higher this season compared to the same period last year, and using over 9 million gallons more per day, Aquarion’s reservoirs and wells are below normal capacity,” according to a press release from Aquarion.

Water Conservation Tips

Aquarion recommends ways to use water more efficiently, while helping conservation efforts:

• Consider shutting off irrigations systems for the season or reduce irrigation to twice a week. With cooler temperatures, lawns and shrubs require an inch or less of water per week
• Allow grass to grow longer; taller grass is healthier and requires less water
• Use brooms or blowers instead of water to clean decks, driveways and sidewalks
• Don’t wash cars or boats with a hose
• Shut off ornamental water displays
• Do not leave water running while washing hands, shaving, or brushing teeth
• Take shorter showers
• Hand-wash dishes in a basin, not under running water
• Repair leaks in plumbing and fixtures

“Due to current conditions, Aquarion is advising customers to voluntarily reduce their water use,” said Charles V. Firlotte, Aquarion President and CEO. “It is important for all of our customers to assist in this effort, to ensure everyone in our entire at-large community has the water they need, when they need it.”

• Visit the Aquarion website for additional water conservation tips

• To view Connecticut’s drought monitor map, click here

Photo by Joe Shlabotnik, via flickr creative commons