Water Restrictions

Published:  06-12-2006

The Environmental Protection Division has asked that we distribute the following reminder to you. We appreciate EPD's use of GAWP's communication network to get messages such as this into the hands of our utilities.

Dry Conditions Underscore Importance of Outdoor Water Use Schedules

The Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the Georgia. Department of Natural Resources would like to thank local water providers throughout the state for enforcing the RULES FOR OUTDOOR WATER USE, Chapter 391-3-30 over the past two years. Current dry conditions across Georgia are a reminder of the importance of these rules.

The Board of Natural Resources adopted the rules in 2004, which require Georgians to follow year-round schedules for outdoor water use during both non-drought periods and during periods of declared drought. The rules apply to any entity, and its customers, permitted by EPD for water withdrawal or for the operation of a public drinking water supply system.

Current conditions warrant the non-drought schedule for outdoor water use statewide. Outdoor water use other than exempted activities should occur only as follows:

• Odd-numbered addresses: outdoor water use is allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays (no hourly limits).
• Even-numbered addresses: outdoor water use is allowed on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturday (no hourly limits).

Should conditions worsen, EPD will require that you immediately take action to manage outdoor water use appropriate to the level of declared drought in your area. Water providers also are authorized to implement more stringent outdoor water use schedules within their jurisdictions. A copy of the rules is available at this web address.

Georgia's local governments and water providers have played an important role in helping citizens comply with outdoor water use schedules. EPD recognizes your efforts to protect and preserve our limited water resources and asks for your continuing cooperation.

Jack C. Dozier, P.E., CAE, Executive Director
Georgia Association of Water Professionals
http://gawponline.org
2121 New Market Parkway, Suite 144
Marietta, GA 30067