Drought in Catawba basin continues; advisory group asks water users to conserve

Officials monitoring local water levels have issued an advisory reminding residents along the Catawba and Wateree river basin that the area is still in a drought and water conservation efforts are advised.

Low rainfall and high temperatures this summer have contributed to drought conditions in the basin that provides water to several local authorities in South Carolina, including customers in York, Chester and Lancaster counties.

The area has been in Stage 1 of the “low inflow protocol” since July 20, and the Catawba-Wateree Drought Advisory Group asks residents to take voluntary conservation efforts. The drought also could affect Duke Energy’s hydroelectric operations along the river.

“We appreciate the continued mindful use of water by the community as we enter the typically drier end of summer and beginning of fall season,” said Kevin Greer, a member of the advisory group.

“Although we received some rainfall in the basin, it hasn’t been enough to substantially improve conditions.”

For more information on conservation efforts, contact your local water provider or go to duke-energy.com/lakes/cwdmag.asp.

This story was originally published September 1, 2015 at 1:07 PM with the headline "Drought in Catawba basin continues; advisory group asks water users to conserve."