Residents asked to reduce non-essential water use as prolonged dry conditions continue across the Catawba-Wateree River Basin
The City of Camden is advising residents that the Catawba-Wateree River Basin has been placed under Stage 2 drought conditions following an extended period of dry weather across the region.
The designation was issued by the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group (CW-DMAG) under its Low Inflow Protocol (LIP). Stage 2 is the third of five drought stages outlined in the protocol and requires mandatory water conservation measures throughout the basin, which stretches from the mountains of North Carolina to the Wateree Dam in South Carolina.
The region is currently experiencing its ninth consecutive month of below-average rainfall, with many of the smaller streams that feed the basin and reservoirs reporting significantly reduced water levels.
As a water provider within the basin, the City of Camden is requiring customers to eliminate non-essential water use and limit discretionary uses, including lawn irrigation, to no more than twice per week during off-peak hours between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. In accordance with City ordinance, the goal during Stage 2 is to achieve a 5 to 10 percent reduction in overall water use.
Warnings will be issued for violations of the mandatory restrictions. Repeated violations may result in monetary penalties added to a customer’s water bill based on the severity of the violation and water usage. Continued noncompliance following a warning may also lead to disconnection of water service, with restoration conditioned upon payment of applicable fees and assurance of future compliance.
“As a member of the Catawba-Wateree Water Management Group, the City of Camden aims to raise awareness about increased drought conditions and help promote responsible water use during this time of extreme dry conditions throughout the entire drainage basin,” said Jack Thornsberry, Director of Utilities and Public Works for the City of Camden. “By requiring mandatory conservation efforts, we can help protect our collective water resources should drought conditions continue into the summer.”
Duke Energy, which manages lakes within the basin, has also begun implementing measures to help conserve water levels, including reducing downstream releases and limiting certain recreational flows. Lake users may also notice increased monitoring at public boating access areas, with temporary closures possible if water levels continue to decline.
The City of Camden, along with CW-DMAG partners, will continue monitoring conditions and coordinating efforts to protect the shared water supply and overall health of the Catawba-Wateree River Basin.
Residents with questions about water use restrictions or conservation practices may contact the City of Camden Public Works Department at 803-432-2421.