Water Conservation Still Urged During Winter
Mandatory restrictions remain in effect for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities customers, despite welcome rainfall that has boosted lake storage levels.
Duke Energy's revised projection states further water use restrictions may not be necessary before August. This is encouraging news for everyone in the Catawba River basin; however, it does not indicate long-term drought relief. Mecklenburg County continues to be designated in "exceptional drought," the most severe level.
"The lake levels have improved, but we're definitely not out of the woods," said Maeneen Klein, Utilities Water Conservation Manager. "We saw last year how warm temperatures and lack of rainfall can have a quick impact. Continued conservation is still our best option for extending our water supply in a drought.
"We hope customers' efforts will put our community in a position where tighter restrictions won't be needed."
Current mandatory water restrictions for Charlotte-Mecklenburg customers prohibit sprinkler use and/or lawn watering, pool filling (topping off is OK), ornamental fountain operation and residential car washing.
Customers still are permitted to water trees, shrubs or flower beds with drip irrigation, a container or a hand-held hose with spray nozzle attached.
Utilities asks customers to make a conscious decision each time they use water.
* Reduce shower time.
* Use paper plates for a few meals a week.
* Flush only when necessary.
* Use towels and linens an extra few days to reduce washing machine loads.
* Dispose of food scraps in the trash instead of garbage disposal.
