Okatie, SC (June 17, 2011)—The Members of the S.C. Drought Response Committee released its latest report on the status of the continuing dr ought today. Due to weather conditions, officials elevated the drought status of Beaufort and Jasper Counties from “incipient” to “moderate.” The “moderate” declaration is intended to increase awareness that drought conditions are intensifying. Throughout the State, 26 counties’ drought status has now been elevated to “moderate.” In response to this announcement, Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority (BJWSA) is reminding all customers of the need to be conservative in their water use. While BJWSA’s water sources are at adequate levels—including upstream reservoirs—there are multiple advantages to water efficiency and conservation. “Conserving water saves our customers money, reduces energy costs and lowers emissions associated with treating large amount s of water,” said Dean Moss, BJWSA General Manager. “Water efficiency is a good personal practice, and wasting water is bad for everyone.”

There are multiple ways customers can save water and money, including: • Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street; • Water your lawn & garden in the morning or even ing when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation; • Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk; • Check soil moisture two to three inches below the surface before watering, instead of using a set schedule; • Direct water from rain gutters and HV AC systems toward water-loving plants; • Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full; • Monitor your water bill for unusually hi gh use, which can help detect leaks; • Consider purchasing appliances those that offer cycle and load size adjustments. • Shorten your shower by a minute or two • Listen for dripping faucets and running toilets, which waste hundreds of gallons monthly These measures are only a handful of ways to practi ce efficient water use, which helps to benefit the entire region. In general, using common sense can he lp customers save significant money and water. For additional information about using water efficiently, customers may visit www.bjwsa.org/water/water-use.html . Customers can also visit www.dnr.sc.gov/climate/sco/D rought/drought_current_info.php for information about the drought in South Carolina.

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