Below-average snowpack combined with drier summer weather forecasts resulted in Governor Inslee’s decision to expand a drought declaration to Clallam County on May 20th. The Olympic Peninsula has experienced its third driest summer, with area rivers forecast to be below average.
Due to low flows in the Elwha River, which influences the amount of water available to the City’s water system, a Stage II Water Shortage has been declared by the City of Port Angeles. This means that immediate voluntary reductions in water consumption are encouraged. Some recommended voluntary conservation actions include:
- Install low-flow shower heads and faucets that are available free at City Hall.
- Reduce frequency and volume of lawn watering, and limit it to early morning or evenings.
- Collect a rebate for installing water-efficient toilets, rain barrels, watering timers, and soil moisture meters.
- Reduce car washing frequency.
- Operate automatic dishwashers/clothes washers only when full.
- Think about other ways to conserve water.
If you would like information on water conservation, please call 417-4715, or you may visit the City’s water conservation web page at https://www.cityofpa.us/807/Water-Conservation.