The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) officially declared today (Monday, April 27) a statewide Level 1 Drought Response, which includes Monroe County.
The state’s outdoor watering schedule for public water systems has not changed at this time from its normal allowance for watering anytime between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. However, the conservation of water during this time, whenever possible, is highly encouraged.
Drought Response Level 1 requires public water systems to conduct a public information campaign to explain drought conditions and the need to conserve water. The campaign shall include one or more of the following: newspaper advertisements, bill inserts, website homepage, social media and notices in public libraries. It should target all commercial and residential water use, not just outdoor watering. It should emphasize what customers should do to be good stewards of our water resources.
With that in mind, as of now, 1.) General landscape watering may be done between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. each day. 2.) Irrigation of personal food gardens may be done at any time of day. 3.) Irrigation of new and replanted plant, seed, or turf may be done at any time of day for 30 days after installation. 4.) Drip irrigation or irrigation using soaker hoses may be done at any time of day. 5.) Handwatering with a hose with automatic cutoff or handheld container may be done at any time of day.
For tips on water conservation both inside and outside of your home while we are under this Level 1 Drought, please click on the following link: https://epd.georgia.gov/watershed-protection-branch/water-conservation
