With the drought warning, a mandatory 10-percent reduction in water consumption is required for all non-agricultural customers for all Upcountry Maui systems.

Affected areas include: Haiku, Makawao, Olinda, Hali'imaile, Pukalani, Kula, Oma'opio, Pulehu, Kula, Keokea, Ulupalakua, Kanaio and Waiohuli. Farmers have a 30-day waiver from the restrictions.

The 10-percent mandatory reduction will be based on the higher of either the daily average consumption for the previous two years (April 2005 to April 2007) or the consumption indicated in the March 2007 billing.

The cutback applies immediately to all services except those with agriculture water rates, who have been granted a 30-day waiver.

Customers with average consumption greater than 400 gallons per day will receive a letter from the Department of Water Supply informing them of their required reduction. Customers who use less per day are encouraged to reduce their usage on a voluntary basis.

Should the situation continue to worsen, a drought emergency may be issued. A drought emergency involves a mandatory reduction of 25 percent in water consumption.

The drought condition is a concern for the Fire Department. Residents in the affected areas are advised to remove flammable vegetation from areas within 10 feet of structures. Also, with the July 4 holiday approaching, residents are encouraged to be cautious while using fireworks.