Harrisonburg public utilities customers are under a mandatory water conservation notice as the water treatment plant works to clear filters of debris from recent rain.
The city is asking the community to reduce water use, when possible, tonight and tomorrow.
The water supply is safe to use at this time, according to a city spokesperson.
“Harrisonburg public utilities staff are working around the clock to do whatever possible to expedite treatment of raw water for our community,” said Michael Parks, Harrisonburg director of communications and public engagement. “We are grateful for our community’s support in following simple and easy conservation steps at this time. Even small measures can make a big impact in helping to lessen water demand during this event.”
The city is currently utilizing already-treated water from towers and tanks to serve homes and businesses, but those sources have limited capacity and could run out before the water treatment plant returns to full service.
Commercial and agriculture customers have already shifted operations to reduce demand on the water system.
If Harrisonburg’s available treated water supply gets too low, a mandatory boil water order will be issued as water will become potentially unsafe to drink.
At this time, there is no estimate for when service will return to full capacity at the treatment facility.
Water conservation tips
For general water use in your home at this time, community members should take any available step to reduce non-essential water use, such as:
- Avoid letting the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving
- Take short showers instead of baths
- Operate dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are fully loaded
- Avoid wasting water waiting for it to get hot
- Don’t water your lawn
- Take any other general conservation effort you can until otherwise informed
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Crystal Graham
