Posted on: Tuesday, August 5, 2003

Conservation plan voluntary, for now

 • Big water users ignore request for conservation
 • Water-use habits hard to break for some

The Honolulu Board of Water Supply is asking residents to restrict irrigation and limit lawn and landscape watering. Here are questions and answers on what is being asked of O'ahu residents:

Q: What is the irrigation schedule?

A: Lawn and garden irrigation is limited to Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

Q: Why is the program restricted to these times?

A: Water is lost to evaporation during the hotter parts of the day. You can use less water by watering early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Q: Who is being asked to conserve water?

A: All water users on O'ahu, including government agencies and businesses.

Q: Why is this program being implemented?

A: O'ahu aquifer levels dropped two feet — the lowest in five years — at Kaimuki, Beretania, Kalihi, Moanalua, Halawa, Kalauao and Punalu'u wells.

Q: How long will it last?

A: Board of Water Supply staff will monitor the effects of voluntary conservation over the next several weeks. If water use is not reduced by 10 percent, a mandatory program that would include flow restrictors being placed on water lines may be implemented.

Q: Will I be penalized if I water on days not on the schedule?

A: Compliance is voluntary, and there are no penalties for watering outside of the days requested.

Q: Who should I contact if I have further questions?

A: The Board of Water Supply Community Relations Office at 748-5041.

Q: Does the Board of Water Supply have a Web site where I can find out more information?

A: www.hbws.org