City appreciates voluntary water conservation

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February 8, 2013

City appreciates voluntary water conservation

BY LAUREN CARTER The Express-Star The Chickasha Express Star Fri Feb 08, 2013, 07:42 PM CST

CHICKASHA — All across the state of Oklahoma, residents are experiencing the effects of a drought, and although Grady County hasn't mandated water conservation, but residents are encouraged to help lower usage.

According to The Drought Impact Center, almost 95 percent of Oklahoma is in the extreme or exceptional drought conditions categories.

"It's something of concern, but at this point there is no mandatory conservation efforts," City manager Stewart Fairburn said. "But we sure would appreciate any voluntary effort from citizens."

With any drought situation no one should be wasting precious resources, Fairburn explained.

Knowing the importance of city involvement, Fairburn provided some suggestions for water conservation in Chickasha.

"Don't over water your lawn," Fairburn said. "Don't water in the middle of the day, it goes back into the atmosphere so quickly."

Always check for leaks, Fairburn suggested. Toilet leaks use over a hundred gallons a day.

"It's very important to check for small leaks as well," Fairburn added.

Nearby cities such as Norman have implemented mandatory water conservation programs. Some of the required rules include no outdoor watering or irrigation is allowed between the hours 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Washing of cars, trucks, trailers or other vehicles is prohibited unless these items are taken to a commercial car wash. Washing or hosing down buildings, sidewalks or any parking areas is also prohibited.

Due to Grady County's current drought, The Grady County Farm Service Agency was recently approved for an Emergency Conservation Program.

According to Fairburn the city is looking into some formal programs.