Stage 1 Water Ration Plan
NEWPORT MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT
NOTICE OF STAGE 1 MILD DROUGHT CONDITIONS
JULY 19, 2011
Newport Municipal Utility District (“District”) buys water from the San Jacinto River Authority (“Authority”) and is therefore subject to its drought plan requirements. The Authority has notified the District that Lake Conroe levels are low due to the current drought conditions and has triggered its Stage 1 drought condition. The District is in turn required to implement Stage 1 of its Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan (the “Conservation Plan”). Water usage within the District has increased dramatically in recent weeks, primarily due to outdoor watering. To maintain adequate water supplies and water pressure, the District is requiring all of its customers to participate in the District’s Conservation Plan.
The District has implemented Stage 1 of the Conservation Plan. Under Stage 1, the District REQUIRES that water consumers restrict usage of water for outdoor purposes to the following:
(1) Restricted Days Use - If your address ends with an even number, you must water outdoors only on Mondays and Thursdays. If your address ends with an odd number, you must water outdoors only on Tuesdays and Fridays.
(2) Restricted Hours of Use - OUTDOOR WATERING IS TO BE CONDUCTED ON YOUR DESIGNATED DAYS IN THE MORNING BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 5:00 AM TO 10:00 AM AND IN THE EVENING BETWEEN 6:00 PM TO MIDNIGHT.
Please see the simple water conservation tips printed on the reverse side. These tips can also reduce water consumption.
Violations of these MANDATORY water rationing rules may result in the imposition of fines or disconnection of services. The District will inform you when conditions no longer require participation in the Conservation Plan.
In addition, to maintain its water supply in compliance with all regulations, the District will from time to time be using free chlorine to disinfect the water. This method of disinfection is approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and is safe and effective; however, those on kidney dialysis may be affected and may need to make changes to their treatment. If you are receiving kidney dialysis, please contact the District’s operator at 281-324-9803 for more information.
Finally, the Board of Directors of the District appreciates any assistance its customers can give with regard to locating leaks or line breaks. Please contact the District’s operator at 281-324-9803 if you see standing or flowing water. This could indicate a water leak that needs to be repaired as soon as possible.
Thank you for your cooperation.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF NEWPORT MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT
WATER CONSERVATION TIPS
1. Check faucets, toilets, and ice makers for interior leaks and make necessary repairs. Install low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads.
2. Water only when the grass needs watering. If the grass has turned a dull green-gray or if footprints remain visible, it is time to water. If water is rationed, give priority to watering trees and shrubs which are more expensive and harder to replace than grass and annual plants. When watering grass, soak long enough for water to reach the roots. Water slowly and deeply, and do not allow water to spray or flow onto streets and sidewalks.
3. Turn soaker hoses so that the holes are at the bottom to avoid evaporation.
4. Do not “sweep” sidewalks and driveways with the water hose. Use a broom instead.
5. Take a shower instead of filling the tub for a bath. Showers usually use less water.
6. Do not leave water running while brushing your teeth or shaving.
7. Use a small pan of cold water when cleaning vegetables rather than letting the faucet run.
8. Run the dishwasher and clothes washer only when full.