Conservation urged as limits on water lifted
By James Gonser
Advertiser Staff Writer
The Board of Water Supply yesterday lifted its voluntary irrigation and conservation measures for O'ahu after recent rainfalls and a reduction in water use.
Advertiser library photo
"It is with cautious optimism that the Board of Water Supply is lifting its voluntary irrigation and conservation request," said Clifford Jamile, manager and chief engineer of the Board of Water Supply.
"We are relying upon (everyone's) kokua in keeping up with their conservation efforts in the months ahead." said Clifford Jamile.
The Board of Water Supply had asked for voluntary water conservation on Aug. 2 because of drought conditions that have left water levels dangerously low.
In making the request, the board said water use had reached an all-time high of 180 million gallons a day. Users were asked to reduce consumption by 10 percent and residents were asked to water their lawns and landscaping only on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
For the week ending Nov. 19, water consumption totaled 153.11 million gallons per day, a decrease of more than 17 percent.
Information specialist Wanda Yamane said water levels are not back to normal, but with consumption down and more rain expected, it was time to end the restrictions.
Yamane said residents should continue to conserve water by not watering during the hottest part of the day or when strong winds blow the water away.
"We deeply appreciate everyone's cooperation and concerted efforts during the past four months in using water wisely," Jamile said. "We are relying upon their kokua in keeping up with their conservation efforts in the months ahead."
Reach James Gonser at jgonser@honoluluadvertiser.com or 535-2431.
