'Limit Non-Essential Water Use’: Baltimore Area Restrictions Urged As Drought Persists

BALTIMORE, MD — Officials are urging Baltimore-area residents to conserve water as the state grapples with ongoing drought conditions.

In a statement released Thursday, public works officials in Baltimore City and the counties of Baltimore, Harford, Howard, and Carroll issued voluntary water restrictions due to low water levels in the three reservoirs that supply drinking water to 1.8 million people across the region.

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"Residents and other water customers who use public water in the Baltimore region are urged to limit non-essential water use," officials said.

The voluntary restrictions come as rainfall across the region remains significantly below seasonal averages, and much of Maryland is currently experiencing severe drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

As of Thursday, water levels at the Baltimore City-owned Prettyboy Reservoir have dropped 6 feet below normal, city officials said. At Liberty Reservoir in western Baltimore County, water levels are 2 feet below normal.

Officials said the voluntary restrictions apply to all customers throughout the Baltimore regional water system who receive public water service. Residents who rely on private wells are not affected by the restrictions and should consult their local county or municipal officials for guidance.

The restrictions are intended to reduce demand on the water system as summer nears and to help avoid the need for mandatory water-use restrictions later if drought conditions persist.

Baltimore City public works officials said the agency will continue to monitor reservoir levels and drought conditions and will evaluate additional measures if conditions worsen.

Recommended Water Conservation Measures

The Baltimore Department of Public Works and its regional partners said all residents and businesses can voluntarily reduce non-essential water use by:

• Repairing or replacing leaking faucets, hoses and sprinklers
• Running only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines
• Turning off taps while brushing teeth or shaving and minimizing shower time
• Postponing lawn and garden watering
• Refraining from washing outdoor surfaces like sidewalks and driveways
• Avoiding car, boat or equipment washing. If car washing is needed, go to an automatic car wash business that recycles wash water

The voluntary water restrictions do not apply to essential water uses such as drinking, cooking or hygiene.