Drought Continues to Worsen as Spring Dry Season Begins
Increased Water Conservation a Critical Step in Minimizing Impact of Drought

CLEARWATER, Fla - Long-term drought conditions in the Tampa Bay region are significantly worsening as what is historically the driest time of year begins. The ongoing lack of significant rainfall already triggered both Tampa Bay Water and the Southwest Florida Water Management District to issue Level II Water Shortage alerts during the previous months.

As a result of the worsening conditions, all municipalities in the Tampa Bay region are currently under one-day-per-week, one-time-per-day outdoor water use restrictions. Municipalities in the region also have restricted the hours during which outdoor water use is allowed.

“It is extremely important that residents and businesses follow the specific water restrictions for their municipality,” said Dave Bracciano, demand management coordinator for Tampa Bay Water. “Adhering to the correct day of the week for watering allows water departments to better manage the available supply.  Know when you can water and do so only during those times. Governments are strictly enforcing restrictions, so watering at the wrong time can easily lead to a citation.”

Currently, flows in the Hillsborough and Alafia rivers—two of the region’s most significant surface water resources—are significantly below normal. As of April 1, the Hillsborough River was flowing at 77 percent below normal, and the Alafia River was about 68 percent below normal. Because of these reduced surface water conditions, the City of Tampa has begun taking about 30 million gallons of water per day from the Tampa Bay Water regional system.

Tampa Bay Water’s C.W. Bill Young Reservoir has supplied over 6.1 billion gallons of water to the region since October 1, 2006. The reservoir will continue to augment the water supply throughout the dry season, helping to meet municipal demand when surface water sources are unavailable.

The spring dry season normally concludes in early June. It is extremely critical that everyone help conserve water to eliminate potential stress on water resources and local government distribution systems.  Residents are urged to use the following conservation measures:

• Water only on your day and only if your landscape needs it.  Lawns need about ¾ to 1 inch of water when you irrigate.
• Check and adjust sprinkler heads so only your lawn and shrubs are being watered, not the house, sidewalks, driveways or street.  Misdirected and broken sprinkler heads can waste hundreds of gallons of water.
• Set your lawn mower cut height to no less than 3 to 4 inches to develop deeper, more drought-tolerant roots.
• Use a three-inch layer of mulch around your plants to reduce evaporation and promote plant growth.

Tampa Bay Water supports the efforts of local water officials in encouraging water conservation and adherence to existing irrigation restrictions.  When you conserve water, you are contributing to the overall quality of our environment and ensuring enough water for everyone.