[Archived] Alexandria Officials Encourage Residents to Use Water Wisely

City Press Release


	City of Alexandria, Virginia Office of the City Manager Alexandria City Hall 301 King Street, Suite 3500 Alexandria, Virginia 22314-3211 www.alexandriava.gov Telephone: 703.838.4300 Fax : 703.838.6343

Alexandria Officials Encourage Residents to Use Water Wisely

In light of the drought watch recently issued by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, Alexandria residents are encouraged to practice appropriate wise water use measures. The unusual and extended period of dry weather experienced throughout the Metro area since September, 2001, combined with forecasts indicating an above normal probability of dry conditions persisting into the summer, prompted the issuance of the drought watch.

The watch level, the first notification stage of the region’s water supply and drought plan, is triggered by at least moderate drought conditions in the Potomac River basin. Precipitation in the Washington region is more than fifty percent below normal since last September and river flows are near to or at record low levels for this time of year. While foresighted planning by local and regional authorities has prepared the region to withstand a serious drought, residents are reminded of the importance of practicing smart water use throughout the year.

“The drought watch indicates that there is still an adequate supply of water to meet the region’s normal water needs,” said Philip Sunderland, Alexandria City Manager. “However, by providing the public with advanced notice of the unusually dry conditions we have the opportunity to learn and practice appropriate water conservation habits. Installing low-flow shower heads, fixing leaks, and running clothes and dish washers only when full are simple ways to conserve water every day, not just when our area is threatened by drought conditions.”

Officials note that while wintertime droughts are less severe in their effect on water supply, than summer droughts, there will be increased fire danger, and a negative impact on agriculture and the environment, if current dry conditions persist.

For more information on wise water use and water conservation tips, visit the Virginia-American Water Company website at http://www.vawc.com/water_tips.html, or contact William Skrabak in the Alexandria Department of Transportation and Environmental Services, 703.838.4334.

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