The North Texas Municipal Water District recently issued a press release to announce that after almost five years under drought restrictions, twice a week watering will be allowed effective May 1. The organization had initially planned to ease the restrictions effective June 1 but levels of supply reservoirs have increased to a point that makes this change possible earlier than previously planned.
The NTMWD will end all drought stages as of May 1 and residents are ask
ed to water no more than twice per week and only if needed.
The press release further explains that the drought has not officially ended, but that recent rains have helped increase the levels of Lake Lavon and Chapman Lake. This increase in reservoir levels, along with resuming the use of water from Lake Texoma, made the change possible.
NTMWD Executive Director Tom Kula reminds customers that later in the summer, when hot and dry conditions prevail, homeowners and businesses should water only when necessary to maintain a healthy lawn.
Customers are encouraged to sign up at WaterMyYard.org for weekly updates on how much and when to water lawns. Additionally, each member city of NTMWD enforces its own plan and consumers should be aware of their individual city’s regulations.
Kula credited NTMWD’s consumers for making it through the drought.
“There’s no doubt the tremendous support of the entire region allowed us all to get through the tough last few years with some of the strictest watering restrictions in the state. Not boasting because it’s a fact, NTMWD’s cities and customers are some of the most water-wise in the state.”
Conservation continues to be vital and residents and businesses should follow wise water use practices.
“Don’t set it and forget it,” the press release advises, with reference to automatic sprinkler systems.