BURKE COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) — Burke County leaders and representatives from the Catawba-Wateree Water Management Group thanked residents for doing their part to reduce water use during the current drought conditions but said restrictions will remain in place for now.
In a statement released Saturday, June 27, county leaders said that by reducing nonessential water use, customers have helped decrease strain on the regional water supply system.
Recent rainfall and short-term improvements provided temporary relief to the area, but leaders said the improvements have not been enough to end the current drought response, meaning the Stage 2 restrictions will remain in place.
Burke County leaders said reservoir levels have begun to recede again, which they said is one of the main reasons for continued low streamflow across the region.
“We appreciate the community’s continued cooperation, and the steps customers have already taken to conserve water,” Burke County General Services Director Mark Delehant said in a written statement. “The recent improvements were helpful, but they were temporary. Until streamflow and overall water supply conditions show sustained recovery, continued conservation remains necessary.”
The following mandatory restrictions remain in effect:
Lawn and landscape irrigation using public water systems is limited to twice per week, no more than 0.50 inch per week, and only between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.Use of water from public water systems for washing driveways, sidewalks and other impervious surfaces is prohibited.Residential vehicle washing using public water systems is not allowed.Use of water for certain testing and training activities has been limited.
Failure to comply with Stage 2 water restrictions could result in enforcement actions that start with a warning, followed by fines and potential service disconnection for repeated violations.
Contact Burke County Water/Sewer at 828-764-9063 or visit the Burke County Water Shortage Response Plan on the county website for more information regarding current water restrictions and conservation tips.