The Maryville Water Quality Control Department and the City of Alcoa Public Works & Engineering Department remind customers of the Maryville, Alcoa, and Tuckaleechee Utility District water systems that the entire region remains in a drought and that calls for water conservation remain in effect. Although most of the area received rainfall on Friday, September 14, the gages on Little River are again at historic low readings. The river flow has once again dropped to the point that calls for reduced water usage

At this time, the cities are asking their customers and those of Tuckaleechee Utility District (which purchases its water from Alcoa) to voluntarily conserve water. Reducing water use will help ease the demand on each of the water systems which, in turn, eases the demand on the river. Specific suggestions include:

§ Stop irrigation of plants, trees and landscaping

§ Refrain from washing cars

§ Fix all leaky plumbing fixtures, including outdoor hoses

§ Run washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads

§ Use a broom instead of a water hose to clean sidewalks and driveways

To reduce long-term water use, residents should also consider such things as installing sink faucets with aerators, motion sensors, or automatic shut-offs, installation of low-flow shower heads, and other water-saving devices.

For now, water conservation is still voluntary. However, if the area does not receive any rain in the next few days, mandatory restrictions may be implemented.

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.