Patrick County officials declared a drought watch last week following prolonged dry weather conditions that have affected regional water supplies.
County Administrator Michael McGuinness issued the declaration on Thursday, May 21, under the county’s Drought and Water Emergencies Ordinance after reviewing streamflow conditions, water levels, available storage capacity, drawdown rates and projected water supply capabilities in coordination with the Patrick County Public Service Authority.
According to the declaration, officials determined that “moderate but limited supplies of water are currently available,” meeting the criteria for a drought watch under the county’s Drought Response and Contingency Plan.
The declaration does not impose mandatory restrictions, but county residents are being strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water to reduce strain on the system.
Recommended conservation measures include repairing leaking faucets and toilets, limiting showers to five minutes, turning off faucets while brushing teeth or shaving, and operating dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
Residents also are encouraged to limit lawn watering to the minimum necessary for plant survival, avoid washing vehicles and outdoor surfaces, and delay new landscaping projects.
County officials also requested that industrial, manufacturing and commercial operations reduce water consumption “to any degree feasible,” with a target goal of a 10 percent reduction.
Under the ordinance, future restrictions or escalations would not apply to any government activity, business or industry deemed necessary for public health and safety or to prevent severe economic hardship or substantial job loss.
The drought watch will remain in effect until conditions improve and county officials, in consultation with the Patrick County Public Service Authority and the Patrick County Board of Supervisors, determine the water shortage has ended.
