Columbus enters Phase 1 drought conditions, asks for voluntary conservation

Columbus has entered “Phase 1 Mild Drought” conditions, per the city’s Drought Contingency Plan, Wednesday, Aug. 26.

This Phase 1 condition means that the city is asking residents to practice voluntary water conservation measures. The city has posted “Alert Phase 1 Mi ld” signs around the city, which are reminders to be conservative with water, one of our most precious resources.

Phase 1 Mild Drought conditions exist when any of the following exist:

• Average daily water consumpt ion reaches 90% of production capacity (1,530,000 gpd) for a period of three (3) consecutive days; or

• Weather conditions are considered to be in a drought classification; or

• Loss of production in one well.

One city water well is currently out of service due to failure. Engineers are designing a new well and submitting plans to the Texas Commission on Environmental Qual ity (TCEQ) for approval.

With the extreme temperatures occurring in our area, the city is asking for cooperation and understanding of its request for voluntary water conservation. Thank you and please remember that every drop counts!