The Borough of Chambersburg Water Department is issuing a Drought Warning to all users within its water service area.
What does it mean?
The “Drought Warning” stage is typically the second drought declaration that the State, Municipality, and/or Water Utility will issue. In our case, below average fall and winter precipitation have resulted in low water levels at the Borough’s drinking water source of supply, Long Pine Run Reservoir.
What about water restrictions?
At this stage of a Drought (in the “Warning” category), water use restrictions are voluntary, and the target is a 10-15% reduction in non-essential water uses. Customers will not be penalized if they fail to follow the request for water conservation measures, but all customers are encouraged to do so.
The Borough of Chambersburg encourages all citizens and businesses to consider the following examples to reduce their water use:
- Run the dishwasher and washing machine less often, and only with full loads.
- Shorten the time you let the water run to warm up before showering and take shorter showers. The shower and toilet are the two biggest indoor water guzzlers.
- Check for and repair household leaks. For example, a leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water daily.
- Install low-flow plumbing fixtures and aerators on faucets.
- Replace older appliances with high-efficiency, front-loading models that use about 30% less water and 40-50% less energy.
- Limit or eliminate the outside use of water. This includes lawn irrigation, washing vehicles, and cleaning of hardscapes.
How are Chambersburg’s water supplies impacted?
Currently, Long Pine Run Reservoir is at 45% capacity which is well below seasonable levels. While the reservoir level is still sufficient for all customer needs, continued decreases in capacity could result in mandatory water restrictions. Borough personnel will continue to monitor our water supply carefully to ensure that we are aware of any changes in capacity levels.
For more information or questions regarding the voluntary restrictions, please email watersli@chambersburgpa.gov or call 717-251-2405.
