DALLAS, Oregon (August 29th, 2023)
The summer months were among the driest on record for our area. The lack of rainfall this summer combined with higher than average temperatures have had a greater impact on our water supply than in prior years.
The City of Dallas has implemented a Stage One Reduction Condition on water usage as provided in the City Code (Section 4.491 Stage One Reduction Condition). Below are the actions required to be taken according to city code and what Stage One Reduction Conditions are defined as:
- The City will advise all water customers to voluntarily reduce their water use.
- Irrigation at all city parks and school facilities will be reduced by 50%,
- All restaurants will display a notice of drought conditions, and offer water to customers only when asked.
- Motels, hotels and other lodging facilities will post a notice of drought conditions in each room, and advise patrons of water conservation tips.
The City’s water supply comes from Mercer Reservoir located on Rickreall Creek. To ensure there is adequate water in the reservoir until the rainy season, we as a community must use our water wisely. Brian Latta, City Manager, emphasized the importance of the water conservation measure by stating, “We are asking our water customers to be thoughtful about their water consumption during the dry summer and fall months, because we rely heavily on our stored rain water for our daily water supply.”
Residents are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water. Below are some basic ways you can help:
- Since outdoor watering and irrigation accounts for a 50% increase in summer water consumption compared to winter usage, water lawns every three to five days, and during the cooler parts of the day to avoid evaporation (morning and night).
- Reduce use of water in the home by turning off the water while brushing your teeth, shortening showers, and only running the dishwasher and washing machines when full.
- Reuse water around the house. Recycled water is often suitable for plants.
Remember that water conservation is not just for emergencies. Water, like all other resources, is limited. The efficient use of water is needed to ensure its availability until the rainy season. Well-managed water resources is a community priority. Thank you, your efforts will make a difference.
For more information please visit:
https://www.dallasor.gov/publicworks/page/water-conservation-plan.
If you have any further questions, please contact our Public Works Department at 503.831.3559.
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