WATER SHORTAGE AND WATER CONSERVATION
The need for water conservation has never been greater.  Water conservation has become a national focus in terms of cost and natural resource preservation, especially in areas affected by droughts and water shortages.  Until further notice I am asking that all citizens observe voluntary water conservation measures throughout the area.  Our water systems are continuing to have maximum water demands because of the hot, dry weather.  There seems to be no relief to the water shortage, as no significant rainfall is in the forecast.  I encourage everyone to limit car washing, lawn and garden watering, combine use of household chores, etc. where possible.  As everyone knows, water is our most valuable resource, and Town staff works hard to insure our water supply is protected. 
Water production has dropped from 18,959,000 gallons per month in January 2007 to 15,145,000 in January 2008, and to 14,349,000 in June of 2008. This is a 24% decrease in water production.  In the meantime water consumption has remained the same over the last 18 months but has begun to increase in the last 6 months.  In March of 2008 the average homeowner used 2823 gallons per month as compared to 3282 for the month of June. 
There is always an increased usage of water during the growing season, and we can see as much as a 100,000 gallon per day decrease in water consumption following a good rain.
While the Town of Black Mountain has a connection with the City of Asheville’s water system, we must do everything that we can to conserve water in order to maintain our supplies and hold costs to a minimum.
Mayor Carl R. Bartlett

More information can be found here:
Water Saving Tips
USGS Drought Monitor
State Drought Monitor
NC Drought Management Advisory Council
Calculate what a leak is wasting per day, week and year. Click here


Watershed reservoir 8-2008  photo by Pam Hoen

Watershed reservoir 8-2006 photo by Pam Hoen