Local governments in North Carolina have installed stage one water use restrictions while the drought is ongoing and impacting regional water supplies. The measures which officially took effect on April 20, represent the first major drought related water restrictions implemented in the area in nearly 20 years.
Raleigh water officials state that the region is experiencing a large drop in the water sources that fill local systems. This includes Falls Lake and Swift Creek. Drinking water supplies are still safe. However, the water at Falls Lake recently dropped to 84% capacity. This drop impacted safety rules in the water shortage response plan.
Sophomore Haya Elzubier said, “I think that having to remember the days and changing up our schedule just to sprinkle our grass is kind of annoying because we could get in trouble for not remembering days. But overall, it probably is making an impact on everyone and how we use the water.”
According to Fuquay-Varina, the stage one rules create laws for watering lawns. For people who use Raleigh’s water, automatic sprinklers are now only allowed between midnight to 10 a.m. Homes with odd numbered addresses can use water only on Tuesdays. Homes with even numbered addresses can water only on Wednesdays.
During this, Fuquay-Varina started its own stage one restrictions and automatic sprinklers are also allowed only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for even addresses. Odd addresses can water Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays
Sophomore Michael Ruggerio said, “How I save water at home is to limit how much dishes I use, and I eat with plastic plates and cups instead of glass, and changed some of my habits to turn off the sink when I’m not using it.”
The News & Observer says government enforcement plans focus on teaching the residents first. Workers will give you a warning for a first mistake. More violations bring fines that start at $50. The town can turn off water service for people who keep breaking the rules.
