Voluntary Water Restrictions Lifted

From Richmond City Press Release (recieved 10/12);
Localities Lift Voluntary Water Conservation Measures
RICHMOND, VA – Effective today, the city of Richmond, and counties of Henrico, Hanover and Goochland are lifting the Voluntary conservation measure that has been in effect for the region since mid-September. Substantial rains over the last few weeks have caused levels in the James River, the regions primary water source, to rise to levels that exceed the trigger level for voluntary conservation measures.

Although voluntary conservation measures are being lifted, Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones encourages residents to use water wisely. “A little conservation goes a long way. Each of us must do our part to conserve one of our most precious resources and be good stewards over the environment that has been entrusted into our care,” said Mayor Jones.

The following are some helpful water conservation tips that residents can implement at home to make the most efficient use of water year-round. Additional information can be found at www.vdh.state.va.us/DrinkingWater/conservationtips.htm.
• Check faucets and pipes for leaks – A small drip from a worn faucet washer can waste 20 gallons of water per day. Larger leaks can waste hundreds of gallons.
• Don’t use the toilet as an ashtray or wastebasket – Every time you flush a cigarette butt, facial tissue or other small bit of trash, five to seven gallons of water is wasted.
• Check your toilets for leaks – Contact your local utility provider for recommendations.
• Use your water meter to check for hidden water leaks – Read the house water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, there is a leak.
• Install water-saving shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators.
• Insulate your water pipes.
• Use your dishwasher and clothes washer for only full loads.
• When washing dishes by hand or cleaning vegetables, do not leave the water running for rinsing.
• Keep a bottle of drinking water in the fridge.
• Take shorter showers. Decreasing your shower time by 2 minutes can save several gallons of water.

For additional information, specific to localities, contact:
County of Chesterfield Courtney Battista, Customer Relations Officer 748-1876
County of Goochland Public Utilities 556-5835
County of Hanover Customer Service 365-6024
County of Henrico Customer Service 501-4275
City of Richmond Customer Care Center 644-3000
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