Water Conservation Request- Stage 2 Drought

As drought conditions continue to spread across Connecticut, we are asking all Stonington residents to reduce water consumption. 

Over the last thirty days, Connecticut has experienced lower than normal rainfall, with rain amounts totaling an estimated one inch, compared to four inches of rain which would typically fall in this time period.  Lower rainfall, combined with high water demand, has led the State of Connecticut's lnteragency Drought Working Group to declare that all eight counties in the state are experiencing Stage 2 Drought conditions.  These conditions can lead to a drought event and can impact water supplies, agriculture, and the environment.  In light of these conditions, we are asking residents help us spread the word about the importance of water conservation. 

Outdoor water conservation measures-

• If you haven't purchased a rain barrel for your garden, consider this as an excellent way to help the environment and save money!
• Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting.  A taller lawn provides shade to the roots and helps retain soil moisture, so your lawn requires less water.
• Reduce your sprinkler setting to our two days per week schedule. The grass roots will grow deeper and make your grass more drought tolerant.
• Adjust your sprinklers so that they're watering your lawn and garden, and not the street or sidewalk.
• Use hand watering or drip irrigation for shrubs and flowers.
• Delay new plantings until the fall.
• Inspect your overall irrigation system for leaks, broken lines or blockage in the lines. A well-maintained system will save you money, water, and time.

Indoor water conservation measures

• Turn off the water while lathering up, shaving, or brushing your teeth. 
• Minimize baths and the amount of water you use for each. Trim one minute off the length of your showers.
• Wash only full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine.
• Hand wash dishes in a pan or the sink, not under continuous running water.
• Reuse dehumidifier water or use a bucket to capture shower and bath water while you wait for it to warm up; then use the water to water your plants.

Aquarion Water Company made a presentation entitled "Water Conservation During Climate Change" at the Board of Selectmen meeting held on January 26, 2022. The presentation provides information on the impact of climate change, water conservation and other relevant insights  You can find the informatoon and presentation here. Please also know, all Aquarion customers are being asked to water outside only twice a week, following a schedule that can be found online and in the presentation.