Drought Lasting Into Spring Greater Threat To Birmingham Water

By: Associated Press | Alabama's13.com
Published: December 10, 2007

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) - Without substantial rainfall in the next two months, Birmingham officials expect tighter water conservation measures will be needed in response to the drought.

Lake Purdy and Inland Lake supply drinking water for most of metropolitan Birmingham. The lakes typically are drawn down in summer and replenished by late fall and early winter rains.

But more than a month after the water levels usually start rising, both lakes this year are just over half full, with no relief in sight.

Birmingham Water Works Assistant General Manager Darryl Jones says there is plenty of rainy season remaining, but officials are beginning to consider what might happen if the drought lingers the spring.

Jones says the Water Works is monitoring the levels of its reservoirs closely, and if substantial rainfall doesn't come within one to two months, it will ask customers to further conserve water through voluntary measures.

The utility that serves more than 30 municipalities already is operating under its Stage 2 drought plan, which sets voluntary guidelines for lawn watering.

Drought Lasting Into Spring Greater Threat To Birmingham Water

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