Water Conservation Alert Issued In Manchester

MANCHESTER, CT — The Manchester Water Department Wednesday issued a water conservation alert to residents, businesses, institutions and users of the public water supply after levels at the town's reservoirs dropped to below 80 percent of capacity.

The drop is linked to a lack of precipitation, officials said.

All those using the local water system are being asked to take shorter showers, run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads, shut off the water while washing hands, shaving and brushing teeth, and "minimizing the watering of lawns and gardens."

Further voluntary conservation measures include avoiding power washing homes, sidewalks and driveways; reducing the frequency of washing vehicles, and cutting down on refilling swimming pools.

It is also being recommended that any leaky plumbing fixtures be repaired or replaced with low-flow devices.

Town officials said the water department will continue to monitor the level of the reservoirs and will lift the alert once reservoir capacities "return to normal."

If conditions worsen, the town may need to implement additional conservation measures in accordance with its Drought Contingency Plan. That may include mandatory use restrictions in order to ensure an adequate supply of water is available for normal domestic consumption and fire protection, officials said.

Click here for status reports on local reservoirs.