Press Release Issued September 13, 2023
The State of Oregon, at the request of Lincoln County and based on the recommendations of the Drought Readiness Council and input from the Water Supply Availability Committee, declared a State of Drought Emergency in Lincoln County on September 1, 2023.
The main reasons for this declaration are low streamflows, low precipitation, and low soil moisture. These conditions put stress on drinking water supplies and increase the potential for wildfires. Natural resources, farms, forests, and recreational activities are all likely to face significant economic impacts.
The Mid-Coast Water Conservation Consortium (Mid-Coast Water) encourages everyone in Lincoln County to help reduce water waste. Here are a few water-saving ideas:
- Outdoor water conservation tips
- Limit watering to the evening hours or early mornings, if at all.
- Try not to wash cars and boats.
- Minimize or avoid washing outdoor surfaces, such as pavement, decks, fences, and buildings.
- Make sure your sprinklers water your plants, not pavement.
- Hold off on draining or filling pools and hot tubs.
- Indoor water conservation tips
- Run the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads only.
- Take shorter showers.
- Install water-efficient faucet aerators, showerheads, and toilets. (Check with your water provider about the availability of free water conservation items.)
- Find and fix leaks.
Some water providers may implement water curtailment plans in response to drought conditions to reduce demand on their stressed water supplies. Businesses and residents should pay attention to messages from their water providers to learn if water curtailment is necessary.