News
Sep 5, 2008
Rocky Mount Lifts Water Conservation Orders - Burning Ban Remains in Effect
ROCKY MOUNT, Va. – Due to the recent rains and the prospect of additional precipitation over the weekend, the Town of Rocky Mount is lifting its water conservation orders.
The Blackwater River, the Town’s source of raw water for its two million gallons-per-day water plant, reached a historic low flow of 1.5 cubic feet per second August 25 and 26 after the Town of Rocky Mount instituted mandatory water conservation. The remnants of Tropical Storm Fay covered the region with substantial rainfall, apparently breaking a long period of drought.
While the Blackwater basin has received no additional rainfall since Fay, forecasters believe Hurricane Hanna will deliver rainfall in the basin. With additional tropical storm activity behind Hanna, Town officials believe the Town will continue to be able to meet the water needs of all customers.
“The Blackwater River flow is holding near 20 cubic feet per second,” said Jonathan Coleman, interim Water Plant Superintendent. “With rain in the forecast, I feel confident that our water supply is in good shape.”
Town Manager C. James Ervin thanked area water customers for helping to reduce demand during the historic low.
“I appreciate all the assistance we received from citizens and businesses when we asked for conservation,” said Town Manager C. James Ervin. “I also appreciate the long hours put in by our water treatment staff. They worked hard to keep the water tanks full while the river was down to historic lows.”
The Town’s ban on outdoor burning remains in effect. The Town will issue special burn permits on a case-by-case basis as reviewed by the Fire Marshal. To request a permit for an outdoor burn, contact Fire Marshal Posey Dillon at (540) 483-7670 or 483-7181. News Archive
