MOORE COUNTY, N.C. — Residents served by Moore County Public Utilities are still being asked to voluntarily reduce their water usage as severe drought conditions continue across the Sandhills.
Recent rainfall has helped lower demand on the county’s water system, but officials say conditions have not improved enough to end the Moore County water conservation request. The Stage 1 voluntary conservation response will remain in effect until further notice.
The request applies to customers throughout the Moore County Public Utilities service area, including Pinehurst, Seven Lakes, Vass, West End, Hyland Hills and East Moore.
Moore County initially enacted the Stage 1 response on July 5 as prolonged heat and limited rainfall placed additional pressure on local water supplies. Aberdeen and Harnett Regional Water have also implemented conservation measures and are requesting a 10-percent reduction in water usage. Harnett Regional Water is a major supplier for Moore County.
Residents Asked to Reduce Outdoor Water Use
Under the voluntary Moore County water conservation measures, residents are encouraged to limit lawn watering unless grass begins showing signs of stress or withering. Customers should also reduce car washing and avoid other unnecessary outdoor water use.
Outdoor watering can account for a significant portion of household water consumption during the summer. Reducing that demand can help the county maintain water pressure and system reliability during prolonged periods of hot and dry weather.
Ways to Conserve Water Inside the Home
County officials are also asking customers to check plumbing fixtures, faucets and toilets for leaks. Even a slow leak can waste a substantial amount of water when allowed to continue for several days or weeks.
Additional recommendations include limiting showers to approximately five minutes, turning off faucets while brushing teeth or shaving, and avoiding running water continuously while washing dishes.
Residents can also support the Moore County water conservation effort by running clothes washers and dishwashers only when they contain full loads. These small changes can collectively produce a meaningful reduction in demand across the county’s service area.
Conservation Could Help Prevent Additional Restrictions
The current measures are voluntary, but officials say public cooperation is important to maintaining a dependable water supply and avoiding more restrictive measures. Moore County plans to monitor drought conditions and daily water usage before determining when the request can be lifted.
Customers should remember that conservation requirements may vary by water provider. Residents who receive service from Aberdeen or another municipal system should follow the instructions issued specifically by that provider.
The Moore County water conservation request will remain in effect until officials announce a change. Residents can receive more information by contacting Moore County Public Utilities at 910-947-6315 or visiting the Moore County government website.
Star 102.5 will continue providing updates affecting water customers across Moore County and the Sandhills.
