[Water and Drought]

sebbs_05 — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 11:45:00 -0400

The Triangle's water systems are being strained by drought and growth. Municipalities have asked residents to help by conserving water. The resources here can help you learn more about how to conserve and about the status of our region's water supplies.

County and Municipality Water Contacts

Drought Information

Drought Summary (maps)

The Division of Water Resources, part of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, maintains maps that give a visual sense on the worst drought areas in North Carolina.
Drought Conditions and Advisories

The Drought Management Advisory Council monitors drought conditions across the state and is responsible for issuing drought advisories. Specific information can be found on crops, climate, and groundwater.
Lake Levels

Graphical presentation by the National Weather Service of lake levels in North Carolina, especially as it relates to flooding.
Rainfall Totals

Detailed rainfall information is included as part of monthly weather data. From this National Weather Service web site select the month and year for either Raleigh, Greensboro, or Fayetteville.
N.C. Stream Flow Information

Stream flow is a measurement of the volume of water that moves over a designated point over a fixed period of time. When water is withdrawn from the flow, such as through heavy water use, irrigation, etc., it can significantly impact the living organisms that depend on the water, especially in smaller streams. The U.S. Geological Survey provides water stream flow information for the entire U.S.
National Integrated Drought Information System

NIDIS is the U.S. government's portal to drought information for the entire country. The web site uses maps to give a visual picture of drought conditions. Additionally, there is drought forecasting and impact information.

Water Restrictions

Water Restrictions Across N.C.

Gives the status, across the state, of water conservation efforts, including the number of water systems under mandatory or voluntary restrictions.
Water Restrictions in Wake Municipalities

Wake County maintains a page summarizing water restrictions in Wake's municipalities.
City of Raleigh Water Conservation

This web site, updated regularly, offers all the details of Raleigh's water conservation plan, plus some basic tips for saving water. Includes press release listing certified car washes.
Orange Water and Sewer Authority restrictions

Newest water restrictions for Chapel Hill and Carrboro.
City of Durham water restrictions

Water Conservation Tips

Water Conservation Links / Tips

These links, provided by the Division of Water Resources, are to resources that will help you learn how to conserve water in and around your home.
City of Raleigh Conservation Tips

More information about the city's water conservation plan, plus conservation tips that you can do at home.
Save Water

This page on water conservation, from the NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance, is especially for businesses.
Household Water Consumption Calculator

The Orange (County) Water and Sewer Authority, also known as OWASA, provides a calculator to determine your household's water consumption. "Understanding where and how much water we use is the first step in beginning to conserve one of our most precious resources," states this Web site.

Drought-Tolerant Landscaping

Xeriscape North Carolina

Xeriscape is a type of landscaping that uses little water but maintains a traditional look. In some places in the U.S., notably in the Southwest, homeowners can opt for a natural desert landscaping. But in other parts of the country xeriscape has come to represent the use of drought-tolerant plants and a reduction of irrigation. This booklet gives information to homeowners about implementing a xeriscape.
Helping Your Landscape Recover from the Drought

When your yard and plants show signs of drought-related stress, check out this guide for help. From North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.
A How-To for Water-Effficient Landscaping

Suggestions for creating a more drought-tolerant landscape at your home. From the Town of Cary.

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[Water and Drought]