Dick Henk posted this on our company blog earlier today, and I wanted to share it with the Active Rain community.
As of last Thursday, 46% of Alabama is under an exceptional drought, which is the most critical level. 99% of the state is experiencing some level of drought, with only the coastal areas escaping the arid conditions. The long range forecast is not predicting any relief anytime soon. So how is the drought effecting the Dothan area water supply? Should Dothan residents be as concerned as some residents in north Alabama and north Georgia? At this point in time, it doesn’t appear that we have to be overly concerned, just ever mindful of our usage.
Water supplied to residents of Dothan and the surrounding Wiregrass area, through the various water systems, is pumped up to the surface from underground aquifers. Because of this fact, it is not readily apparent when our water supply is in decline, and it is easy for us to just assume there is plenty of water. The Stage II water alert that is normally in effect in Dothan from April through October was not extended, so we are only under a voluntary conservation plan right now. Now, when our water supply is not in danger, is the time to practice good conservation however.
As Alabama, Georgia, and Florida battle over who should have control over certain water sources, Dothan residents should continue to conserve water whenever possible. Take a look at this list and pick out at least a couple of things YOU can do to conserve this fall and winter.
- Repair dripping faucets - one drip per second equals a waste of 2,700 gallons a year
- Take shorter showers or use low flow shower heads
- Don’t let the water run while washing your face, brushing your teeth, or rinsing the dishes
- Run clothes washers and dishwashers with full loads ONLY
- Keep toilets in good working order and install low flow toilets when possible
Where is the majority of the water in your home going? Toilet 27%, clothes washer 22%, shower 17%, faucets 16%, leaks 14% and other 5%. So you can see more than a quarter of all water is flushed down the drain.
Please post your water conservation tips below. We want an ample water supply for both current and future residents of Dothan. By the way, if you know of someone that is considering moving to the Dothan area, drop me an email.
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