Additional Information on Stage 2 Drought Conditions
Since the District implemented Stage 2 (mandatory reductions) drought conditions on August 18, 2023, we have received a number of questions regarding the need for the mandatory potable water reductions and the timing for outdoor potable water use. Please see additional clarifying information below.
Stage 2 Trigger. Under the District’s Drought Contingency Plan, Stage 2 is triggered when demand on the District’s potable water supply facilities meets or exceeds 90% of the production capacity for 5 consecutive days. Please note that the City of Houston, which supplies potable water to the Harris County MUD 500 Master District Service Area (consisting of Harris County MUD Nos. 500, 501, 502, and 503) via the West Harris County Regional Water Authority, also has triggered Stage 2 (mandatory reductions) of their Drought Contingency Plan effective August 27th due to the length and severity of the ongoing extreme heat and drought conditions.
Restriction on Hours for Watering. As previously noted, under Stage 2 of the District’s Drought Contingency Plan, users are directed not to use potable water outdoors between the morning hours of 6:00 am and 10:00 a.m., and between the evening hours of 6:00 p.m. and midnight. These restrictions are put in place because those morning and evening hours are when demand on the potable water system is at its peak. Outdoor watering during those times puts further stress on the system and increases the risk of reductions in system pressure, mechanical failures, and other issues.
If you have any additional questions about the current drought response measures, please contact the District’s operator, Environmental Development Partners, LLC, at (832) 467-1599. Thank you for your continued attention to this matter.