Conserve Water During Regional Drought Watch

Conserve Water During Regional Drought Watch

The Drought Coordination Committee of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) has put a Drought Watch into effect due to unusually dry conditions that are expected to persist in the region. While there is an adequate supply of water to meet current needs, City residents and businesses are being asked to take voluntary measures to conserve water and help reduce demand on the region's water supply systems.

A Drought Watch is the level before a Drought Warning in the Metropolitan Washington Water Supply and Drought Awareness Response Plan. Additional water restrictions could become mandatory should conditions worsen. View the Plan here.

Here are some simple tips residents can use to limit indoor and outdoor water use:

• Monitor watering lawns, plants and shrubs.
• Sweep sidewalks and driveways (instead of using a hose).
• Avoid washing your car, or instead use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
• Fix any plumbing leaks – especially toilets and faucets.
• Reduce shower length to under five minutes.
• Turn off water while brushing your teeth.
• Wash full loads of dishes and clothes.

This is a City of Gaithersburg, Maryland announcement.

Oriental Lily, Kentlands Photowalk, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA IMG 8678
Canon PowerShot G11 Camera
Photograph by Roy Kelley
Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs