Water conservation efforts continue

FREDERICTON (GNB) - New Brunswickers are urged to keep conserving water as winter nears.

Surface and groundwater levels remain well below normal, and frozen ground limits absorption. Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage said ongoing conservation is vital to protect water supplies through the colder months.

"Our province continues to experience low rainfall, and, until significant precipitation returns, every drop saved counts," said LePage. "Community resilience begins with each of us doing our part to conserve water."

While recent rainfall has provided some benefit, it has not been enough to resolve the ongoing drought. Sustained and consistent precipitation will be necessary to restore normal water levels. In the meantime, New Brunswickers are encouraged to do their part to conserve water whenever possible.

According to a recent Canadian Drought Monitor report, over half of the province is in the "extreme drought" category. The New Brunswick Water Resource Report for September indicated stream flows were well below the long-term normal for most of the province, and groundwater wells in Miramichi and the Ford Bank area of Five Rivers are at record lows. With no significant precipitation in the immediate forecast, conditions are expected to continue to decline.

People are advised to consider how they can reduce water use, whether they are on a private well or on a municipal system. Decreasing water consumption in homes, businesses and public spaces will help make sure there is enough water to meet basic needs.

"We will work directly with local governments to ensure they have the tools and information to support residents experiencing reduced or no water supply," said LePage.

Concerned private well owners can also contact a licensed well driller to discuss options.

The Department of Environment and Local Government suggests the following ways for people to conserve water:

· avoid washing vehicles

· avoid letting water run while brushing teeth

· use washing machines and dishwashers less frequently and with full loads only

· take quick showers to minimize water used for washing

· consider installing low-flow faucets

· check for leaks in plumbing systems, such as faucets and toilets, and repair as necessary

Updates on water levels are available on the New Brunswick Water Quantity Information website. The site contains summaries of precipitation, stream flow and groundwater levels.