Agenda - 07-25-1988 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I I CJWASA News Release: Voluntary Conservation Measures Requested July 25, 1988 The present supply and demand conditions have been evaluated utilizing a computerized water supply simulation and drought management model developed by Dr. David Moreau, Director of the North Carolina Water Resources Research Institute. Without water conservation measures and purchase of water from other systems, the risk of total depletion of the local usable water supply is presently about 15% (one supply failure every seven years) . To reduce this level of risk, OWASA has commenced water purchases from the City of Durham at a rate of about 3 million gallons per day. The cost of this water is about $1 .00 per 1 ,000 gallons— $3,000 each day. Durham officials have stated that this supplemental supply of water should be available to UWASA for an extended period of time. However, even assuming the continued availability of water purchases at the present level , the model indicates that voluntary conservation measures are needed at the present time to avoid extremely serious depletion of supplies later in the year. OWASA expects to see at least a ten percent reduction in water use. In the past, a ten percent reduction has resulted from the first stage of the water conservation program with only minor changes in water use practices. This reduction represents about 15 gallons per day per person. With a positive response from the community to these Stage 1 voluntary water conservation measures, the imposition of more stringent water use restrictions may be deferred. However, if the extreme dry weather conditions persist and water demands are not substantially reduced by voluntary conservation measures, imposition of mandatory water use restrictions could be required in the months, and perhaps even weeks, ahead. While the extended dry weather has adversely affected the local water supply, conditions have been favorable for construction work on the Cane Creek Dam and Reservoir. This major water supply expansion project is progressing well ahead of schedule. The contract completion date is June 27, 1989; however, if progress continues at the present rate, water could begin to be impounded by the end of 1988 or early 1989. OWASA and its project engineer and contractors are making every effort to complete this project as soon as possible. Cane Creek Reservoir will provide 10 million gallons of water per day, and will provide a long—term solution to the community' s water supply deficiency. Please contact Everett Billingsley or Patrick Davis if you have any questions. Everett Billingsley 37-47 Executive Director Enclosure-- Sample of letter requesting proclamation of Stage 1 Conservation Measures