Water Conservation

Facts to Consider

Maintaining adequate flow and pressure for public health and safety is a critical concern. Did you know that in the Summer of 2005 between 3.5 and 5 million gallons of water were used outdoors, primarily for lawn watering, by North Kingstown water customers on a daily basis? This is more than the annual average daily usage!

Supply Versus Pumping Capacity

Our water comes from wells, and in the hot, dry days of summer, all the wells are pumping 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. In July and August 2005, water use exceeded our maximum pumping capacity on numerous days. There is no way to increase the amount of water being supplied, so when water demand exceeds our pumping capacity, storage tank levels drop severely compromising the Town’s ability to fight fires and resulting in reduced pressure that could result in contamination.

Environmental Impacts

Consider the impact on the environment. Water withdrawn from wells reduces the amount of water in our surface water bodies. There is currently focus on the Hunt River and a concern that the stream levels during the summer months are not adequate to be protective of the aquatic environment.

Reduced River Flow

Residential outdoor water use during the summer months is considered to be a primary cause of reduced river flow. There has been discussion on the state level of establishing standards and limiting pumping when streams reach critical levels. This would force additional restrictions on outdoor water use.

Landscape Irrigation Regulations

Find more details on residential landscape irrigation regulations.