The Maryville Water Quality Control Department and the City of Alcoa Public Works and Engineering Department announced the easing of voluntary water restrictions as the Labor Day holiday weekend approaches. The cities cite the fact that the Little River flow had begun to stabilize prior to the recent rains allowing for the lifting of the voluntary call for water conservation. Additional factors helping the water situation were Thursday’s rainfall adding to the stabilization of the river level along with predictions of decreasing temperatures and increased chance for rain in the coming days. The Little River is the source of water for both the Maryville and Alcoa water systems.

In recent days, both cities had requested its water customers to voluntarily practice water conservation as the flow of Little River approached record lows at both treatment plants.

Kenny Wiggins, Alcoa Director of Public Works and Engineering said, “We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of residents and businesses during the recent conservation efforts.” Wiggins also asks that Alcoa water customers continue to be vigilant with their water usage and practice water conservation by limiting plant irrigation and washing of vehicles on an as-needed basis. This same request applies to customers of the Tuckaleechee Utility District who are supplied water from Alcoa.

Director of Water Quality Control Jeff Rose stated, "While we are very thankful for the increase in the water flow, Maryville wants to remind our customers that the lift of voluntary conservation could be temporary depending on the weather conditions next week. The City also wishes to express its appreciation to the businesses, industries, and individual homeowners who conserved water and to South Blount Utilities for providing us with much needed water during our critical period last week."

Maryville and Alcoa will continue to monitor the water levels and renew calls for water conservation if and when needed.

For questions or concerns, call the Maryville Water Quality Control Department at 273-3300 or the Alcoa Public Works and Engineering Office at 380-4800.