Georgia Declares Drought Response Level 1

Residents and businesses across metro Atlanta, including DeKalb County, are being urged to conserve water as drought conditions continue to affect Georgia and place increased pressure on water supplies.

On April 27, after consideration of the drought severity and the water resource impacts, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) declared a state-wide Drought Response Level 1 for public water systems using surface water and/or groundwater. As a result, public water systems must implement a public information campaign including, at a minimum, notice regarding drought conditions and drought-specific announcements in one or more of the following ways: newspaper or online ads, bill inserts, social media, and notices in public libraries. This public information campaign is designed to help citizens better understand drought, its impact on water supplies, and the need for water conservation.

Outdoor water use between the hours of 4 PM and 10 A.M. is still allowable and unaffected by a Drought Response Level 1. Public water systems may not impose restrictions on outdoor watering that are different from state requirements unless they obtain a variance from EPD.

Below-average rainfall, combined with higher seasonal water use - especially for outdoor irrigation - is straining rivers, reservoirs, and drinking water sources across the region. Water officials say conservation now can help reduce demand and protect essential supplies until more sustained rainfall arrives.

"Water is a shared resource, and during dry periods like this, every drop counts," said Danny Johnson, manager of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District. "Simple actions - like watering wisely, fixing leaks, and reducing unnecessary outdoor use - can make a meaningful difference in stretching strained water supplies for our communities."

Outdoor watering is one of the largest drivers of increased water demand during dry conditions. Watering too frequently or during the heat of the day can lead to substantial waste through evaporation and runoff.

Water-saving tools, drought information, and conservation tips are available at MyDropCounts.org, including:

• Regional drought conditions
• Landscape irrigation guides
• Lawn watering tips during drought

Even with strong conservation efforts, water officials say the region will need sustained and significant rainfall across Georgia's river basins to fully replenish water supplies. Until then, continued awareness and responsible water use are critical.

For the latest drought information and additional resources, visit gadrought.org.