Water Restrictions in Effect for Eastern Service Area

Manchester residents must water their lawns and gardens during specified times or face fines, as water restrictions are in effect for the township's eastern service area.

"Last year during mandatory lawn and landscape watering restrictions, peak water demands reached new historical highs," according to a release from Mayor Michael Fressola's office. "Already this year peak demands are exceeding those of last year. Reducing peak demands is essential to our provision of an uninterrupted supply of water throughout the summer months, particularly in emergencies, such as fires."

In an effort to combat increasing strain on the water system, the mayor's office said that properties with odd number street addresses should water only on odd calendar dates, except for July 31 when watering is prohibited.

Those with even number street addresses should only water on even calendar dates.

Watering in a single area cannot exceed 30 minutes on designated days, and no watering can take place between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., the release stated.

The eastern service area "generally includes the portion of the township lying along Route 37 and those portions lying to the east of Route 37, the Borough of Lakehurst and the Lakehurst Naval Air Engineering Station and Warfare Center," the release stated.

Certain exceptions to the restrictions are made for public parks, public recreation areas, nurseries and newly seeded or sodded lawns for up to thirty days after planting. In such cases, a sign indicated new grass has been planted should be displayed.

Restrictions also do not apply to those who use private wells or another water company.

The township also recommends the following to save water:

• Make sure hoses have self-closing nozzles
• Use a broom — not water — to clean sidewalks and patios
• Wait until washing machines and dishwashers are full before running
• Turn off unused faucets when water is not needed, such as when washing dishes or brushing teeth
• Soaker hoses or drip irrigation can save water when hydrating plants

Those with questions about water restrictions can call 732-657-8121, ext. 3311.

This article was edited to fix an error in the times when watering is permitted.