Auburn Water Works Board to Implement Voluntary Outdoor Water Restrictions

Auburn, Ala. - During the last several weeks, Auburn has experienced rainfall deficits and record temperatures. These conditions have created a spike in water demands throughout the City. The Water Works Board of the City of Auburn has sufficient water supplies to meet the regular needs of its customers; however, if the current demand on water for landscape and irrigation practices continues, it will put a strain on the water supply. Effective immediately, the Water Works Board is asking customers to participate in voluntary outdoor water restrictions based on the odd/even street number system. Customers with an even number street address are asked to water on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Customers with an odd number street address are asked to water on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. There should be no outdoor watering on Sundays. The Water Works Board has an ample supply of water to meet the day-to-day needs of its customers for public health and emergency purposes; however, the Board is asking customers to be responsible stewards of our natural resources and participate in the voluntary restrictions in an effort to control excessive water use and eliminate the need for mandatory restrictions. After a two week trial period of the voluntary restrictions, the Water Works Board will reevaluate the situation to determine if mandatory restrictions will be necessary.

Customers are reminded of the following steps to make the most efficient use of watering year-round, especially during voluntary restrictions:
 

• Do not water your street, driveway, or sidewalk. Position your sprinklers so that your water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not the paved areas.
• Do not leave sprinklers or hoses unattended. Your garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours. Use a kitchen timer to remind yourself to turn off the water.
• Water during off-peak demand hours, between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
• Check sprinklers and outside water connections for leaks.

The American Water Works Association defines water conservation as doing more with less, not doing without. By working together, we can help preserve Auburn's water supply year round and possibly prevent the need for mandatory water restrictions.

For more information, please contact the Water Works Board of the City of Auburn at 501-3060.