Wayne Drop, water conservation mascot, met with local elected officials to kick-off and promote the Whatcom Water Alliance (WWA) regional voluntary watering schedule, which started June 1.

The WWA, a regional water conservation group composed of all major, local water purveyors, works to promote water conservation by coordinating public information efforts and related conservation activities. 

Each  summer, all WWA members experience an increase in demand from their water customers.  A voluntary, odd/even watering schedule helps reduce the increased costs associated with peak demand periods and ensures adequate drinking water and fire protection supply. The winter, which has been warmer and drier than normal, is increasing State concerns about drought and declining water supplies for 2010.

From June 1 to September 15,  the Alliance municipalities request residents with odd-numbered street addresses limit outdoor watering to Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.  Residents with even-numbered street addresses  water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.  Mondays are non-watering days to allow reservoirs to recharge after the weekend. 

Current Alliance members include the cities of Bellingham, Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden and Sumas as well as Birch Bay Water and Sewer District, Evergreen Water District, Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District, Point Roberts Water District, Water District #2 and Water District #7.   

For more information on local and regional water conservation programs, please contact your respective water purveyor.  Water conservation information for the city of Blaine and Birch Bay Water and Sewer District can be found at www.cityofblaine.com and www.bbwsd.com.